Camping sites near Avon-by-the-Sea sit on New Jersey's coastal plain, with most facilities located within 20 miles of the Atlantic shoreline. The region's sandy soil allows for good drainage during rainfall but can create challenges for tent stakes and ground cover. Winter camping options remain available at some locations despite the area's moderately cold winter temperatures that average 30-40°F from December through February.
What to do
Biking to beaches: From Allaire State Park, cyclists can access Ocean Grove and nearby beach towns. "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," notes Dan X.
Fishing and boating: Rent watercraft at Turkey Swamp Park from spring through fall. "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," reports Lee D.
Winter outdoor activities: Several parks maintain winter access with unique seasonal offerings. "We found this campground one night when we were in NJ. It ended up snowing that night. The bathrooms were clean and warm. There is a lot to do in the area," shares Lisa S. about Allaire State Park.
What campers like
Large, wooded sites: Sites at Turkey Swamp Park provide privacy and space. "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy. A lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring complete each site," according to Lee D.
Lavender fields: Pleasant Valley Lavender offers a unique camping experience. "So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ," writes Ellen K.
Seasonal activities: Timberland Lake Campground hosts popular fall 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," shares Jessica D.
What you should know
Highway noise: Several campgrounds report traffic noise due to proximity to major roads. "Close to the parkway, constant road noise. Okay bathrooms, flush toilets, sinks, showers, electric outlet. Payphone!? Playground. Campground sells firewood," writes Dwight D. about camping at Allaire State Park.
Tick prevalence: Insects can be a concern, particularly at Butterfly Camping Resort. "This campground was very well taken care of. The sites had good tree coverage and we didn't feel like we were right on top of the next site. There was tons of stuff to do," notes Caitlin F.
Winter camping options: Some parks offer year-round access with cabin options. "This may be my favorite spot. I have stayed in all the spots they offer, yurt, cabin and the pull up sites. It is well maintained with numerous trails to hike. Getting a cabin in the winter and going for a snowy hike is wonderful there," Patrick M. shares about Allaire State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Quiet camping periods: Visit during off-peak times for a more peaceful experience. "This campground was not my first choice. I would rather be in more secluded mountainous campsites. The upside to being so close to the parkway is that there are convenience stores nearby if you forget something," explains Dwight D.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Some campgrounds offer unique animal encounters. "Very close to Six Flags Great Adventure. You can hear the lions in the morning. There is a road that goes between the campground and the Safari you can drive, walk, or bicycle down and see the animals!" reports Jessica D. about Timberland Lake Campground.
Bug preparation: Cheesequake State Park Campground and other area campgrounds require insect precautions. "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. The best part is all the trails. Great place for hiking," Maggie A. notes.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose your site carefully, especially at NWS Earle RV Park. "Small campground W/ 8 spaces in the main area and 7 in an adjacent area. All spaces are level concrete With full hookups and attached concrete patio. Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection," advises Jeffrey.
Full hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer complete utilities. "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," Aaron E. shares about Timberland Lake Campground.
Road conditions: Be aware of interior road quality at some parks. "I scored this a 4 because you can't beat the price for area. However my biggest issue is the sand for all pull-throughs. They do offer full hookups that include cable if you have the outdoor wire," notes Robyn W. about Timberland Lake Campground.