Campers seeking overnight accommodations near Asbury Park, New Jersey can choose from several campgrounds within a 30-45 minute drive of the shoreline. The sandy coastal terrain transitions to wooded Pine Barrens and lake areas as you move inland, creating diverse camping environments. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with coastal humidity, while spring and fall camping offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds at most facilities.
What to do
Fishing and boating: At Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold Township, campers have access to a lake with fishing and various watercraft rentals. "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," notes Lee D.
Biking opportunities: For cycling enthusiasts, several campgrounds offer trail access. "A really nice bike ride to Ocean Grove and other beach towns. There are outlets in the bathroom and someone put a fullass drip coffee machine in one of the sinks. I did not refuse a fresh cup of brew," says Dan X. who stayed at Allaire State Park.
Military history exploration: While camping near Sandy Hook, consider exploring the historical sites. Susan B. writes, "The history housed on this base, with a hanger were full of old planes where dedicated veterans worked diligently to restore them, provided us up close inspection of multiple planes, including a mini-sized glider which we were granted personal access to get into."
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy offered at Tip Tam Camping Resort in Jackson. "Sites are nice and clean. The bathrooms and showers are kept clean. Over all a good place," according to Bill V. The campground provides a natural setting just 20 minutes from Asbury Park.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers are frequently mentioned in reviews. "The bathhouse has on male and one female stall each. Laundry facilities are free for use and in like new condition," Jeffrey notes about NWS Earle RV Park, an option for military personnel and their families.
Proximity to beaches: The seaside location of Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area is a major draw. "Tent camping near the water - great for Jersey Shore adventures. Make sure to check out the lighthouses nearby!!" recommends Becky G. This campground is particularly convenient for beach access.
What you should know
Highway noise: Several campgrounds in the region deal with traffic sounds. "Noisy with highway traffic. Well maintained though. Ticks galore," Justin S. reports about his experience at Allaire State Park. Consider packing earplugs if you're sensitive to noise.
Limited facilities at some sites: At Cheesequake State Park Campground, campers should plan accordingly. "We camped here once because it was easy for part of our family to get to from NYC. Sites were a little too close together and one of the sites we reserved was filled with broken glass," reports Katrina Z.
Tick precautions: The wooded areas around campsites near Asbury Park can harbor ticks. "I was so excited when we got here. The sites are spacious and it's really beautiful. But by the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2," warns LAURA Y. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activities for children: Butterfly Camping Resort offers numerous amenities for kids. "My husband and I came to this campground for a quick weekend getaway with our dogs. We had a great time! There's a pond to fish, trails to walk/bike, basketball, sand volleyball, the list goes on and on," shares Caitlin F.
Halloween festivities: For fall camping with kids, consider special events. "We LOVE camping here in the fall!! They do their own haunted walk through that is just awesome! Everyone decorates. They have a dj every Saturday! Plenty of activities for the kids," Jessica D. says about her experiences at Timberland Lake Campground.
Swimming options: Many parks offer swimming facilities during summer. "The swimming pool was large and the water crystal clear," notes Matt S. who stayed at Butterfly Camping Resort. Most pools operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting.
Tips from RVers
Site conditions: For RV campers, it's important to note the terrain at Timberland Lake Campground. "My biggest issue is the sand for all pull-throughs. They do offer full hookups that include cable if you have the outdoor wire. Plenty of activities for kids with park area and pool," advises Robyn W.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer sewer hookups. Check each location's facilities before booking. "Our site was a level pull-thru with 50-amp electric, water, sewer, and cable. It was roomy, shady, and easy to pull in and out. The hook-ups were all well-maintained and worked fine," says Matt S. about Butterfly Camping Resort.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds near Asbury Park operate seasonally. "Stayed here from June 24th-27th on site 38. It was a really nice size, and the kids could fish right off the dock on the back," reports Aaron E. about Timberland Lake Campground, which operates from March through December.
