Dog-Friendly Camping near Atlantic City, NJ

71 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.

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    Bass River State Forest accommodates pets at designated campsites with full hookups for RVs, tent sites, and pet-friendly cabins. Campers must keep dogs leashed at all times and clean up after their pets throughout the grounds. Belleplain State Forest provides similar pet policies with spacious sites that easily fit larger tents and RVs, making it popular for families camping with dogs. Most campgrounds in the Atlantic City area charge a $5 pet fee and require proof of current vaccinations at check-in. The pet-friendly sites at Ocean View Resort Campground feature gravel pads that prevent muddy conditions after rain, particularly appreciated by campers with dogs.

    Hiking trails throughout Wharton State Forest welcome leashed dogs, with the Batona Trail offering miles of pine forest exploration for active pets. The sandy terrain at many campgrounds provides good drainage but can track into tents and RVs, so bringing extra towels for wiping paws is recommended. Atlantic Shore Pines Campground maintains a dedicated dog park where pets can exercise off-leash, while Baker's Acres Campground recently added a new dog park that gives energetic dogs space to burn energy. Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours that include barking regulations, so bringing familiar bedding helps pets settle in unfamiliar surroundings. Veterinary services are available within 15-30 minutes of most Atlantic City area campgrounds, with emergency clinics in Absecon and Egg Harbor Township.

    Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Atlantic City (71)

      1. Bass River State Forest

      4.4(19)18mi from Atlantic CityRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "The newest addition of extra pet friendly sites have made it even better because we can bring the pup. The sites are a great size and many are set back enough that you have privacy."

      "We have never camped here before, but wanted to hike the Batona trail nearby."

      2. Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake

      3.9(7)11mi from Atlantic CityRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "pros pull through

      friendly front desk

      clean showers and toilet

      free cable

      great lounge

      close to Long Beach Island and Atlantic city

      well kept area

      nice pool and playground

      right off the parkway"

      "Limited store supply selection but Wawa is a 15 minute drive and Walmart is roughly the same so that’s good enough for me. Pool is well taken care of and the lake is nice."

      3. Whippoorwill Campground

      3.8(8)14mi from Atlantic City2 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "The only thing that concerned us was there were a lot of little kids walking around unattended. We will def go back."

      "Close to beaches and lots to do in the area."

      from $43 / night

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      4. Baker's Acres Campground

      4.3(15)19mi from Atlantic CityRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "We stayed at Baker’s Acres Campground in Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, for a weekend in mid-August. So did the rains of Hurricane Henri! "

      "We scored a site next to the playground that features a huge monkey bar set up, a ship, and a playhouse complete with kitchen. Not to mention swings and bouncers too."

      from $43 / night

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      5. Ocean View Resort Campground

      4.4(16)20mi from Atlantic CityRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "It's very close to everything, but you don't even need to leave the campground! There are a ton of activities!"

      "We went to Ocean View Resort in New Jersey to kick off the 2022 season in our new Fleetwood Discovery LXE. And we’re glad we did! "

      6. Belleplain State Forest

      4.2(24)23mi from Atlantic CityRVs, Glamping

      "They allowed me to drive around first and pick out a campsite before checking in. They charge $5 extra for a dog. So far it is very quiet and that's what I was looking for."

      "Pets are also allowed with no size restrictions with vaccination records and a leash! They have kayaks available to rent to row across the peaceful Nummy Lake."

      7. Holly Acres RV Park

      4.0(6)13mi from Atlantic CityRVs, Tents

      "5 Stars / Labor Day Weekend  We stayed at Holly Acres Campground in Egg Harbor City, New Jersey, for Labor Day weekend. We’re so glad we did! "

      "We brought our dogs. They ended up swimming in the pond. We also enjoyed the pool."

      8. Atlantic Shore Pines Campground

      4.4(5)14mi from Atlantic CityRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "This place is very close to Bass River State Park with lots of hiking and outdoor activities. Restaurants and stores in Tuckerton are just a few minutes away."

      from $65 - $220 / night

      Check Availability

      9. Ocean City Campground & Beach Cabins

      4.4(7)17mi from Atlantic City1 siteRVs, Cabins

      "Gravel under the trailer and small river rock around the picnic table and fire pit."

      "THINGS I LIKED: 

      • Park is within 30-minutes drive-time to Cape May, Ocean City, and Wildwood 

      • Everything we saw was in great condition, perfectly working order, clean, and looked new 

      *"

      10. Pomona RV Park and Campground

      4.0(2)10mi from Atlantic CityRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "They have internet, TV, open gear around, city water, sewer, always there to help."

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    Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Atlantic City, NJ

    438 Reviews of 71 Atlantic City Campgrounds

    • jThe Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 26, 2026

      Belleplain State Forest

      Quiet, Clean and Friendly

      We stayed at the group site campground with our horse.  We found the sites to be large, and  clean.  The staff is very friendly and helpful, and they have fall activities for the family, at the lake and nature hikes.  The porta potty's are very clean, have hand sanitizer and plenty of paper.   Will be returning again in a few weeks.  Plenty of trails to ride on.  A true gem in our own backyard.

    • Andrea B.
      Oct. 8, 2026

      Colonial Meadows Family Campground

      Great park

      Many long term seasonal sites. Good community. Large shower house good and clean . Pool. Game room. Off leash dog park. Wooded/shady sites or no shade sunny sites. Lots of area to walk or play. Large field, basketball couture, frisky golf, play area and laundry room. We were here all summer (June-october). Lots to do in the area. Good food nearby. Ocean city 10 minutes away.

    • JThe Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 5, 2026

      Ocean View Resort Campground

      One of the best campgrounds I have ever stayed in

      This is one of the largest, if not the largest, campgrounds in Southern New Jersey. While on the pricier side, everything is top-notch. The roads are all paved, and not gravel (I hate trying to sleep and listening to the sound of stones grating together). The sites are more spacious than most campgrounds, so it doesn't seem so crowded. The bathrooms are all modern and spotless. There are numerous bathrooms which means most sites have one nearby. They do charge a quarter for showers to encourage water conservation and donate the money to conservation causes. The pool is large, as is the lake. Both are well-maintained. The camp store is enormous and is really nice and well-stocked with everything one might need from food to pool and beach stuff to camping supplies and equipment. There is a nice cafe with indoor and outdoor seating. The camp store has a lending library of books and DVDs. There are numerous activities that appear to be well-run, The grounds are shaded with many trees for a great wooded campground feel. The campground is so large that it has an internal shuttle with stations scattered about to help people go between the various important sites such as at the pool, the lake and the store. I found other campers, particularly the seasonals, to be more friendly than other campgrounds at the shore. This requires constant tree care including removing dead trees and branches which they do regularly. The staff is friendly and well-trained. I was in a tent, and when a rare October nor'easter came through, I was offered the opportunity to use a cabin free-of-charge. Fortunately my tent and equipment made it through days of rain and high winds just fine . On my first stay in May, I had to run my dog back to Baltimore towards the end of my trip where he was sadly diagnosed with incurable metastatic cancer. When I returned, I was late and unable to check out by 11, but they allowed me to take as much time as needed to clear the site, as nobody was staying there the next day, which was deeply appreciated - I was an emotional wreck. Oh, and I found the complimentary Wi-Fi to be a great service, and sufficiently fast to allow me to stream ultra-high-definition movies at my site - Most campgrounds charge extra for less-than-good service - a lot more. I find that a big bonus. Overall, I LOVE this campground and highly recommend it.

    • bThe Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 30, 2026

      Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest

      Pine Barrens New Jersey

      This campground is part of the Wharton State Forest and has several campgrounds in the area. Great wooded sites right on a lake. Pretty good separation between sites with good tree separation between sites. Some road noise not overly affecting site.

    • D
      Sep. 26, 2026

      Brendan Byrne State Forest

      Just ok

      Restrooms are filthy with mold and mildew.

      Water puddled on the restroom floor.really gross.

      Cabin was mostly clean. The windows were full of dirt and bugs on the tracks.mattresses were terrible.The fireplace was nice. Kitchen was clean.

      Can t wait to move on to a cleaner park.

    • AThe Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 21, 2026

      The Depot Travel Park

      Enjoyed my stay

      I’ve stayed here multiple times over the past 15 years and I have enjoyed each trip.

      Depot Travel Park is a well-maintained family-owned campground. It is also reasonably priced, especially given the location that is within a bicycle ride to the beach, the ocean, and lots of shops and restaurants in Cape May. It is the only campground on the Cape May side of the canal.

      Please note that this is not a resort campground and it doesn’t have a pool. There is so much to do in Cape May that is doesn’t need to be a resort.

      Since it’s not a resort campground, there are not many golf carts, so most people use their bicycles or cars to get around. That also makes the campground pretty quiet, even during the peak of summer.

      The campground sells firewood and propane, but there is no camp store. Again, it doesn’t really need one, since there is a farmers market at the end of the driveway, and a CVS and an ACME supermarket within bicycle riding distance.

      If your site doesn’t have a sewer hookup, the dump station is a little awkward to access, but they have a daily honey wagon for a reasonable fee, which is great. If you notify the office the day before you need it and they are usually there in the morning.

      They close for the season n October, but they reopen briefly during the Cape May Christmas Parade weekend in December. That’s one thing that I’d like to do soon.

      I really like this campground and I am always recommending it to friends.

    • E
      Sep. 13, 2026

      Belleplain State Forest

      Don’t go unless you want harassment

      My check in was for 8-6-2026, and bc I’m a new driver and wanted to beat traffic I got there early (7am) so I sit there waiting till check in time. When suddenly the park police show up. He’s accusing me of camping over night there. I told him simply I wasn’t and where I was night prior (would never sleep somewhere without permission). So we go to the store to kill time before we check in. Come back for Check in and the whole staff in just the office alone were so arrogant and cold to my mom and I, leaving rude comments to us and not only where they like that but the staff outside the office was acting like that alongside the rangers and park police. They would watch us the whole visit in the distance parking there cars a little ways watching everything we did,even driving by slowly a bunch of times in just an hour alone. My mom and I couldn’t do anything with out them showing up 2 mins later. Example we were walking our dog enjoying our time(trying to) and all of a sudden one of the office ladies pulls up right in front of us speeding, parks their car, gets out and walks a distance from us standing there and taking pictures of us…. For walking our dog who’s on a leash and didn’t even do anything. The whole trip we felt uncomfortable and unwanted and to find out they police when we were going on walks where coming up to campers near us bribing them with free firewood to get any information on use (told to us by other camper). I paid a lot of money to be harassed and followed the whole time. We never did anything we abide by every rule and keep to ourselves everywhere we go. They even made my mother cry…

    • Adeline M.
      Sep. 5, 2026

      Brendan Byrne State Forest

      Beautiful campground, loud campers

      Beautiful campground but made the mistake of going on a holiday weekend, the campgrounds next to us were screaming and blasting music all day and throughout the night so we ended up leaving early. A beautiful campground when there aren’t noisy capers ruining it.

    • Nadine R.The Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 26, 2026

      Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest

      Not my vibe

      I personally did not like this campsite. First of all, our site tag was leftover from SEPTEMBER. Did no one look at any of these sites and leave someone else’s registration posted there for almost a year? Wild. Our campsite had trash leftover from previous campers. The whole campground was loud - from other campers to just the sounds from the nearby road. If you are looking for peace it is NOT here. If you’re looking to have loud music time all night with no repercussions as your kids ride around yelling and carrying on past midnight then you’ll have a blast. The pros of this campsite was supposed to be the access to Lake Atsion but we were turned away at the gate at 12:30 as they stated they were at capacity. Checking into our campsite they specifically asked if we would be utilizing the recreation area so we would have a pass for entry, but that’s seemingly not in their logistical headcount. I would not visit here again.

    Guide to Atlantic City

    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.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Atlantic City, NJ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Atlantic City, NJ is Bass River State Forest with a 4.4-star rating from 19 reviews.

    What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Atlantic City, NJ?

    TheDyrt.com has all 71 dog-friendly camping locations near Atlantic City, NJ, with real photos and reviews from campers.