Campsites near Atlantic Highlands sit at elevations generally below 400 feet, with most in the coastal plains of Central New Jersey. The terrain consists primarily of sandy soil with pine and oak forests. Fall camping season extends through late October with average temperatures ranging from 45-65°F, while summer camping often requires advance reservations due to proximity to both New York City and coastal areas.
What to do
Wildlife photography opportunities: Turkey Swamp Park features a lake where diverse waterfowl can be photographed, especially during early morning hours. "Turkey Swamp is a great spot, a lot of different things to do. Fishing, Tent Camp, Van Camping, Open Field, BBQ, Kayaking, Canoeing. The list goes on. I've been here a few times, every time I'm here I barely touch my phone," notes reviewer Tylen L.
Historic village exploration: Allaire State Park contains a 19th-century iron making town with buildings dating to the 1830s. "There is a lot to do in the area. Mountain Biking from easy, paved trails to several miles of single track with everything in between. Working village and antique train are available most of the year," explains Beau B.
Archery practice: Multiple campgrounds offer designated archery facilities with hay bale targets. A camper at Turkey Swamp Park mentioned, "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from."
Winter activities: Some area campgrounds remain open year-round, offering unique off-season experiences. "We found this campground one night when we were in NJ. It ended up snowing that night. The bathrooms were clean and warm," recalls Lisa S. about winter camping at Allaire State Park.
What campers like
Wooded privacy between sites: Pine Cone Resort offers sites with significant tree cover. "Camp sites are close together with no privacy but decent sized. You get a table, fire ring without a grill, water, electric, and enough room for a large cabin tent or a few small tents," reports Jesse C.
Seasonal camping communities: Many facilities accommodate longer-term stays. "We are wintering here and it seems to be a great place so far. Most of the neighbors that have been here years are friendly as well as the staff that I have met so far," shares Preston G. about Butterfly Camping Resort.
Free laundry facilities: Some military-affiliated campgrounds offer complimentary amenities. "Laundry facilities are free for use and in like new condition," notes Jeffrey about NWS Earle RV Park, where active and retired military personnel can camp.
Organized family activities: Scheduled events run throughout high season. "Both nights we were there, there were events being put on (a tractor ride, kickball, and a pool movie night). There was also a dog park which was very nice!" writes Caitlin F. about Butterfly Camping Resort.
What you should know
Urban noise considerations: Highway proximity affects several dog friendly campgrounds near Atlantic Highlands. "Stayed in the family campground in a travel trailer. Longish bike ride or shortish drive to the main park. Used a fan in the trailer to block out the sound of traffic with the exception of some sports cars/motorcycles speeding loudly," explains Theresa G. about Cheesequake State Park.
Tick prevention essential: The sandy forest environment harbors ticks, particularly in warmer months. A reviewer at Tip Tam Camping Resort observed: "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."
Dirt and sand management: Many sites have sandy soil that becomes messy during rain. "Sites were a little too close together and one of the sites we reserved was filled with broken glass, we did call the park office and they promptly sent someone out to clean it up," reported one camper at Cheesequake State Park.
Reservation timing: For summer weekends, book at least 3-4 months in advance. "This is a small beach campground. It's all but impossible to get an RV spot there from Memorial day to Labor day. Still, it is a clean and well run campground," notes Michael M. about Nickerson Beach Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground quality assessment: Allaire State Park features a playground, though its surface material can be problematic. "Playground was big, but all sand which every kid had all in their shoes. Good rustic camping experience if that's what you're looking for!" comments Kirsten J.
First-timer friendly options: Introductory campgrounds with full facilities help ease new campers into the experience. "This is a great site for those who are not avid campers. It's close to town if you forget something and it has all the facilities you may need, bathroom, shower, etc.," shares Maggie A. about camping near Atlantic Highlands.
Pool availability: Several pet-friendly campgrounds include swimming pools for children. "The swimming pool was large and the water crystal clear. The store was stocked with typical essentials like supplies, fire wood, and snacks," reports Matt S. about Butterfly Camping Resort.
Multi-generational activities: Some facilities offer varied recreation options. "There's a pond to fish, trails to walk/bike, basketball, sand volleyball, the list goes on and on," notes Caitlin F., highlighting amenities that can engage different age groups.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning challenges: At some locations, utility connections may be awkwardly positioned. "Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection," warns Jeffrey about NWS Earle RV Park.
Urban camping alternatives: For New York City access, Liberty Harbor RV Park provides a rare option despite limitations. "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," advises Keith and Tia S.
Hose length requirements: Some water connections require additional equipment. "Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers," recommends Shawn about Turkey Swamp Park.
Dump station logistics: Location and usage policies vary by campground. "Pluses, minutes walk to the Statue of Liberty, Liberty Science center. Two blocks away from NJ Path train into Manhattan or take the ferry to Wall Street!" writes Keith and Tia S. about Liberty Harbor RV Park.
