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Best Campgrounds near Atlantic Highlands, NJ

284 Reviews

Campgrounds near Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey cluster along the Jersey Shore and inland areas, providing a mix of beachside and woodland camping experiences. Sandy Hook – Gateway National Recreation Area serves as the primary tent camping destination with walk-in sites near ocean beaches, while Cheesequake State Park offers developed campgrounds with both tent and RV accommodations approximately 12 miles west. Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold Township provides more extensive facilities with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. Most campgrounds in the region maintain seasonal operations, typically closing from late fall through early spring.

Access to camping facilities varies across the region with most sites requiring advance reservations, particularly during summer months. Sandy Hook campground features tent-only, walk-in sites where campers must transport gear from parking areas to their designated spots. "We are local and have spent most of our beach days at Sandy hook. It's one of our all time favorite places in the world," notes one visitor, though several reviews mention significant roach issues at night during summer months. Campsites throughout the area typically include fire rings and picnic tables, with varying levels of amenities from basic facilities at Sandy Hook to more comprehensive services at Turkey Swamp Park and Liberty Harbor RV Park.

The Jersey Shore camping experience centers primarily around water-based recreation and beach access. Sandy Hook receives consistently positive feedback for its proximity to beaches, bike trails, and historic sites including an operational lighthouse. Campers appreciate the ability to explore both bay and ocean environments while staying within the recreation area. Inland campgrounds like Cheesequake State Park feature more wooded settings with hiking opportunities. According to reviews on The Dyrt, many visitors value the combination of natural surroundings with relative proximity to urban amenities. Several campgrounds maintain restrictions on alcohol consumption and pet access, with specific regulations varying by property. Most developed campgrounds in the area provide drinking water and toilet facilities, though shower availability differs between locations.

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Best Camping Sites Near Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey (44)

    1. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area

    19 Reviews
    Atlantic Highlands, NJ
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (347) 630-1124

    $30 - $50 / night

    "Once you are there, you can walk right across the street to a bayside inlet and sandy shore that is not highly trafficked because no one can park there except those using the campground."

    "Rangers at the entrance regulate admittance thus, providing a safe environment within the confines of the base."

    2. Cheesequake State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Matawan, NJ
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 566-2161

    $200 / night

    "I stayed at Cheesequake at the beginning of August and had a very positive experience."

    "This park is on the list of 50 top NJ Hikes, and it has a few great trails. The trails range from easy to moderate with quite a few lookout locations."

    3. Turkey Swamp Park

    29 Reviews
    Freehold, NJ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 462-7286

    $42 - $79 / night

    "We stayed in New Jersey for our 5th campground on the East Coast: Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold. This is a County park.

     Near some Revolutionary War battlefields.

     I really liked this park!"

    "Heavily wooded and supremely quiet, it’s located not far from anywhere you’d want to be. 30 minutes to the shore. Every site is a pull-through, large and spacious with great woodland views. 30amp and"

    4. Allaire State Park - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    18 Reviews
    Allenwood, NJ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 938-2371

    "Lots of walking paths surround the park & you are also close to Belmar, Point Pleasant, Manasquan (all fun shore towns)."

    "Nice state park with trails nearby."

    5. Liberty Harbor RV Park

    15 Reviews
    Jersey City, NJ
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (201) 516-7500

    $145 - $180 / night

    "This is all about location. The closest RV park to NYC. It's basically a parking lot with a dump station. Not much else. Pick one of the larger end row sites to get a little extra elbow room."

    "Basicly a parking lot, but the location can't be beat. 2 ferries that run to Manhattan. Path train is a 12 minute walk away that will take you yyo manhatten."

    6. Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area - CLOSED for 2025

    4 Reviews
    Bayonne, NJ
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (718) 354-4655

    $30 / night

    "You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings light a nigh light. The camp here has 7 campsites here and it fill up really fast."

    "this place is awesome when it comes to finding an affordable place to stay while in NY, this camp ground isnt your usual forest camp sites, however there are some beautiful views, and it is located in"

    7. Pleasant Valley Lavender

    1 Review
    Aberdeen, NJ
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 740-4832

    $35 - $50 / night

    "So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods with. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ"

    8. Collective Governors Island

    6 Reviews
    Jersey City, NJ
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 445-2033

    $529 - $1200 / night

    "The article also mentions the benefits of camping on Governor Island, such as feeling close to nature, relaxing and enjoying a peaceful space, away from the noise of the city."

    9. NWS Earle RV Park

    1 Review
    Colts Neck, NJ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 866-2448

    "Small campground W/ 8 spaces in the main area and 7 in an adjacent area. All spaces are level concrete With fill hookups and attached concrete patio."

    10. Pine Cone Resort

    7 Reviews
    Freehold, NJ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 462-2230

    "No hiking trails. No pond or lake for fishing. 50 per night"

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Recent Camping Photos near Atlantic Highlands, NJ

116 Photos of 44 Atlantic Highlands Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Atlantic Highlands, NJ

284 Reviews of 44 Atlantic Highlands Campgrounds

  • S
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Turkey Swamp Park

    Private wooded sites

    Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Liberty Harbor RV Park

    Functional with excellent access to the City

    Very plain & functional, no frills but right on the harbor & on the very edge of Jersey City, close to a ferry & the train that takes u across to New York City. Shopping & restraunts are right next door. We brought scooters & had a great stay! Plus you can see the Statue of Liberty from there!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024

    History and Camping with Revolutionary Limits

    Washington Crossing Historic Park, straddling Pennsylvania and New Jersey along the Delaware River, is one of those rare places where you can literally camp in history. The Pennsylvania side is all about historic buildings, museums and picnic spots, while the New Jersey side (Washington Crossing State Park) offers organized group tent camping. This isn’t the place for a cushy RV getaway or individual tenters looking to sneak in for the night, but rather a structured, group-style camping steeped in Revolutionary War atmosphere. First impressions? More Boy Scout jamboree than weekend getaway, but if you’re here for camaraderie and heritage, you’ve hit the mark.

    Facilities are deliberately minimal. On the Pennsylvania side, camping is limited to a handful of Scout-designated sites with portable toilets, no running water and zero frills. Across the river in New Jersey, the official group camping area provides open tent-only sites with no hookups, no pets and strict quiet hours. Think old-school camping: fire rings, pit toilets and a heavy dose of ‘leave no trace’ ethos. Reservations are required, permits are non-negotiable and the max stay tops out at 14 nights. What you do get is a wide, peaceful forest setting with plenty of space for tents, youth groups or scout troops along with the kind of simplicity that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

    Beyond the tent pads, the surrounding parks are rich with history and outdoor options. On the Pennsylvania side, you’ll find the visitor center, historic McConkey’s Ferry Inn, Bowman’s Hill Tower, and interpretive programs that bring the Revolutionary War era to life. Picnic areas and a boat launch offer ways to enjoy the Delaware River. In New Jersey, miles of wooded trails lead you through rolling hills and historic landscapes, perfect for hiking and birdwatching. It’s a spot where history buffs, scouts and nature seekers can all find common ground.

    Insider Tips? Here’s a handful: (1) The best group sites are the ones tucked furthest from the trailhead as (surprise, surprise) they’re quieter and offer more privacy; (2) Stock up before arriving, as there are no supply stores inside the park, so head on over to nearby Weis Markets in Langhorne or ShopRite in Fairless Hills, both of which are on the PA-side; (3) Be sure to bring all your own water as none is available onsite; (4) Kayakers should launch from the Pennsylvania side’s boat access for an iconic paddle on the Delaware River; (5) Visit the park’s historic reenactments, especially the Christmas Day Crossing event as it’s easily the most memorable history lesson you’ll ever get outdoors; and (6) When you’re done camping, fuel up at It’s Nutts Restaurant on the Jersey side in Titusville for classic diner-style comfort food or Francisco’s on the River for Italian fare with Delaware River views.

    Happy Camping!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    Liberty Harbor RV Park

    friendly staff at the office

    Gave us a welcome folder with lots of helpful info, can walk to get food up the street, short drive to Liberty Park where we got out and walked at night to admire the city skyline and Statue of Liberty at night. They have hook ups and big laundry room.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Round Valley State Park Campground

    Get Your Hard-Core Hiking In To Enjoy This CG

    Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir, which spanning some 2,350 acres and is 180 feed deep in the middle, this body of water provides a solid amount of upside for anyone wanting to kayak, canoe or swim. One of the greatest assets at this particular SP CG are the wonderful rangers who keep this place in such tip-top condition year-round. From the North Picnic Area, Bray’s Hill Preserve and Round Valley Beachhead to the East Picnic Area, Round Valley Farm on the eastern side of the reservoir as well as Round Valley Rec Area, there’s a lot to explore at this SP.

    One interesting fact about this place– believe it or not– it is the only NJ SP that actually offers up true wilderness camping(a.k.a. primitive), which can only be accessed by hiking 3 to 6 miles– or if you come with your own boat, you can access by water– and can be found on the SE corner of the reservoir. There is a second area nearby called Spruce Run Recreation Area that can be accessed by driving to this location, which is on the other side of I78 NW of Round Valley SP. That said, if you’re looking to camp here at Round Valley, I highly recommend you boat in as the hiking path is incredibly difficult to manage without hauling all of your camping gear, so coming in with a ton of gear is even more difficult/ prohibitive.

    When you finally do arrive to this primitive CG immersed in NJ’s thick wild foliage, you’ll experience waterfront bliss with a crystalline bevy of trout-infused reservoir water, and you won’t get much in the way of amenities, apart from a few random water pumps and some rocks piled in a circle that, um, I guess makes up a fire ring. While there are backwoods-style bathroom pits, these are very ill-managed and you’ll come across the‘stank’ well before actually even arriving here, so we just didn’t use them. There’s picnic tables, but the one we had was in pretty rough condition. The thing I found odd about the place is that after hiking so far in to get to this location, you’re not allowed to swim in the reservoir, which kind of defeats the entire point IMHO. That said, the views are amazing and because there’s nothing else in these parts, you will experience true peace in nature.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few:(1) Whether hiking or kayaking to this CG, you will want to bring as little with you as possible– packing too much to come here just isn’t worth the work;(2) We found parking in the Southern Lot to be perfectly fine and while we were initially worried about leaving our vehicle parked there for a few nights, we were reassured by the park rangers who patrol the lot constantly;(3) While the water in the reservoir may look crystal clear, it is not crystal clean and I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw to ensure they don’t get sick;(4) I have hiked throughout the entire US and consider myself somewhere between a moderate to skilled hiker and I found these trails challenging and uneven, so while the hike we made was only 3 miles, it was not easy and I would be worried about someone breaking an ankle getting to this CG– so at a minimum, ensure you are wearing proper hiking boots. Seriously, for what this SP puts you through to access this CG one really needs to question why they’re being charged anything at all in the first place.

    Happy Camping!

  • J
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Turkey Swamp Park

    Fantastic camping ground

    We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn’t even use mosquito repellent and didn’t get a single bite! The campground was super clean too. It was perfect!

  • Jesse G.
    Jun. 22, 2025

    Brendan Byrne State Forest

    Clean, Friendly but Unclear and Arbitrary Rules

    Overall we enjoyed our stay. I will say that the rules of the campsites are ambiguous on the website and when we first arrived were unaware that if using an RV in a tent site you are not allowed to add another tent to the site. There is a two tent limit per site despite the site allowing up to 6 people. We ended up needing to purchase another site which was thankfully open for us to use, however I would have purchased it next to our original site had I known about the limitations.

    Otherwise, the stay was pleasant. The bathrooms were clean and the staff was friendly. They do patrol the sites with a police presence in the evening.

  • Howard P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 16, 2025

    Adventure Bound Camping (Tall Pines)

    Beautiful and family oriented

    My wife and I, residing near the Commodore Barry, sought a brief respite. Our thirteen-year-old son was unable to join us, so we proceeded without him. We secured site 53, a deluxe site offering ample space for our 29VBUD and Ram. The site was level and meticulously maintained, as were the dirt roads. The atmosphere was tranquil and relaxing. Numerous children and abundant activities kept them engaged. Our son truly missed a delightful experience. We departed on Sunday, but the serene ambiance almost prompted us to extend our stay. The sounds of families creating memories enhanced our enjoyment. We certainly plan to return when our grandson is older.

  • Rara B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 5, 2025

    Military Park Fort Dix Range 14 Camp

    Park & go

    We stayed here in November-December to do some exploring around Jersey. Not a lot going on at the fam camp. Clean and gravel. Lots of military training nearby but overall a quiet stay. On the beaten path but a bit further into the trees so you’re not hearing so much road noise.

Guide to Atlantic Highlands

Camping near Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Harriman State Park - Beaver Pond. One camper mentioned, "I enjoy the beach/lakefront, option for platform sites, and regularly cleaned bathroom and shower facilities."
  • Fishing: The Round Valley State Park Campground is great for fishing. A visitor noted, "The water is beautiful and clean, although there is no swimming."
  • Biking: Check out the trails at Turkey Swamp Park. One reviewer said, "Biking and hiking trails are located in the park so no need to travel beyond the park."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at places like Beaver Pond Campground. One review stated, "I like the platform sites that are available, the location close to the lake and beach, and the clean shower and bathroom facilities."
  • Privacy: Many enjoy the spacious sites at Mountainview Campground. A camper shared, "Sites are huge and very private. You didn’t even know that there were people around you."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpful staff at Bass River State Forest. One visitor said, "The staff is very friendly and very helpful."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Atsion Family Camp noted, "The noise from other campers got a bit crazy."
  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Round Valley State Park have limited amenities. One reviewer mentioned, "The primitive restrooms aren’t maintained at all."
  • Bugs in Summer: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A camper at Bass River State Forest said, "There were many bugs and many of them got in my tent."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Time: Avoid holiday weekends at places like Beaver Pond Campground to ensure a quieter experience. One camper advised, "I DO NOT recommend going on holiday weekends or peak summer seasons."
  • Bring Activities: Keep kids entertained with games and outdoor activities. A visitor at Turkey Swamp Park mentioned, "There’s a nice playground in the campground."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A camper at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation said, "Only $20 a night is a steal for this experience."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the necessary hookups. A camper at Mountainview Campground noted, "Electric and water hookups were a little far apart at site 27."
  • Plan for Space: Choose a site that accommodates your RV size. A visitor at Turkey Swamp Park mentioned, "The sites are all pull-through."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can have noise from nearby roads. A camper at Bass River State Forest said, "You could hear car traffic from the nearby road."

Camping near Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or a fun family trip, there's something for you in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping amenities are available at Atlantic Highlands?

Campgrounds near Atlantic Highlands offer a range of amenities to suit different camping styles. Butterfly Camping Resort features large, shaded sites with 50-amp electric, water, sewer, and cable hookups. The resort also boasts a large playground, fishing lake, and numerous activities for children. For those seeking a more natural setting, Round Valley State Park Campground offers a semi-mountainous, forested environment surrounding a crystal-clear reservoir perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating.

Is camping allowed year-round in Atlantic Highlands?

Camping availability near Atlantic Highlands varies seasonally. Mahlon Dickerson Reservation in the Skylands of New Jersey is available for extended stays with paved, mostly level sites featuring water and electric hookups, though it may close during winter months. For those needing year-round options, Liberty Harbor RV Park offers camping throughout all seasons with easy access to Atlantic Highlands. Always check with specific campgrounds about their operational seasons, as many New Jersey campgrounds limit operations during winter due to weather conditions.

Where can I find camping in Atlantic Highlands, NJ?

While Atlantic Highlands itself has limited camping options, several excellent campgrounds are available within a short drive. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area is the closest option, located near Highlands with drive-in access and basic amenities like water and toilets. For those willing to drive a bit further, Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold offers a beautiful 2,283-acre setting with a 17-acre lake, hiking trails, and well-maintained paved campsites. Both locations provide convenient access to Atlantic Highlands' attractions.

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