Camping areas near Atlantic City, New Jersey offer a mix of pine forest and coastal plain environments with sandy soil that provides natural drainage during rainfall. Most campgrounds in this region sit at low elevations of 10-50 feet above sea level with mild temperatures typically ranging from 45-85°F depending on season. Tent sites throughout the region are often situated on packed sand bases that can be challenging for tent stakes but help prevent flooding issues common to coastal areas.
What to do
Lake activities at Bass River: Bass River State Forest provides a natural lake setting for water recreation. According to a visitor, "We walked and explored, kayaked, and sang by the fire. The camp sites have plenty of room for the kids to run around and set up there own areas. Great area for tent camping." The lake includes canoe and kayak rentals for day use, though some visitors note seasonal limitations.
Explore hiking trails: Belleplain State Forest offers multiple trail options ranging from flat, easy paths to more challenging routes through pine forest. "We have walked through the site areas and they seem to be a nice size but not offering too much privacy. We are usually there in the off season so not sure how crazy it gets in the warmer months with the lake being there," notes one visitor who frequents the dog-friendly hiking trails.
Beach trips: Many campers use their campsite as a base for beach visits. An Ocean View Resort Campground guest explains, "We also left the resort and went crabbing and went to the Cape May zoo. great family vacation." Most area beaches are within 15-30 minutes of Atlantic City area campgrounds, with Ocean City and Long Beach Island being popular destinations.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Baker's Acres Campground receives consistent praise for site privacy. "Lots of seasonal campers here give this campground a very homey feel. Our site was decently sized, level, and nicely bordered with trees that gives you a sense of privacy," explains one camper. The pine forest setting creates natural separation between sites at many campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Holly Acres RV Park maintains well-kept restrooms and common areas. A visitor shared: "The gated campground was clean and well-maintained. The swimming pool was inviting. The store was a bit small and date, but stocked with basic essentials like supplies, fire wood, and snacks." This attention to cleanliness is particularly valued during peak summer months when facilities see heavy use.
Family-oriented activities: Whippoorwill Campground organizes regular events for families. One camper noted: "They had a little party by the pool with a DJ and food on July 3rd. My daughter made friends with kids her age in the pool." Most pet-friendly camping options near Atlantic City maintain activity schedules throughout summer with themed weekends and organized recreation.
What you should know
Site conditions vary: Sandy soil can be challenging at some campgrounds. A camper at Whippoorwill observed, "This campground was on sand, but not right on the beach. Bathrooms were very nice!! And I did 4 loads of laundry and that was great too - and cheap for laundry." The sandy terrain is typical for South Jersey campgrounds.
Seasonal factors: Belleplain State Forest experiences seasonal facility closures. One visitor reported: "The closest bathrooms were closed, so we had to drive a few minutes to a different set. That got annoying. Also, there is absolutely nowhere to leave your trash, so be prepared to pack in and pack out." Always check facility status when making reservations, especially in spring or fall.
Pest awareness: Insects can be problematic during warmer months. A Bass River State Forest camper noted: "The campground was clean and well maintained. It's very close to civilization but you get the camping experience. There were a lot of ticks when we stayed in May so keep that in mind." Bug spray with DEET is recommended from April through October.
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: Ocean View Resort provides extensive water amenities for children. According to a visitor: "Ocean View Resort was an excellent resort for our family with two toddlers. kids loved the Splash Park, Arcarde, Tram Car, playgrounds and Lake. So much to do at this resort." Most campgrounds with pools have specific hours for adult-only swim, typically in early morning or evening.
Campsite selection: Families should consider proximity to bathrooms and activities. One Bass River visitor shared: "Bathrooms and showers can be a hike. If you can bring a portable toilet, I'd recommend that. $25 for a primitive tent site with fire pit that is very large area for a family or friends, and far from the road." Sites near playgrounds tend to book first during summer months.
Weather preparedness: Pack for variable conditions as coastal weather can change quickly. "The sites are a great size and many are set back enough that you have privacy. Many great memories of canoeing and fishing on the lake and is a great family-friendly campground," mentioned a Bass River regular, highlighting the importance of having multiple activity options when weather shifts.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Atlantic Shore Pines Campground (formerly Atlantic City North) offers level sites with good hookups. A camper reported: "Very nice campground-- good sized sites, well maintained hookups, clean grounds, friendly staff, well-stocked campstore. The only drawback was my site was not very level and took a few tries to get levelled." Bringing extra leveling blocks is recommended as many sites have slight slopes.
Site access challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow access roads. One visitor to Belleplain State Forest mentioned: "Staff at office said all the roads in the CCC section were 2-way. Not wide enough in my opinion but we didn't have a problem." Larger rigs should call ahead to confirm site accessibility, especially for units over 35 feet.
Sand management: Sites with sandy bases require special attention. An Atlantic Shore Pines camper advised: "Sites are packed sand so be prepared with a good broom because it tracks everywhere." RVers should bring outdoor mats and dedicated cleaning supplies to manage sand tracked inside their units.
