Avon-by-the-Sea camping options sit within 15 miles of New Jersey's coastal region where sandy beaches meet the urban corridor. Most camping facilities in this area operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter availability at state parks. The region experiences moderate temperatures, averaging 75-85°F in summer and 30-45°F during winter months when fewer campgrounds remain operational.
What to do
Beach access from state parks: Allaire State Park provides a strategic camping base with bike paths connecting to Ocean Grove and nearby beaches. As one camper notes, "A really nice bike ride to Ocean Grove and other beach towns" makes this location practical for coastal exploration without beachfront accommodation prices.
Historic village exploration: Allaire State Park features a working historic village and antique train rides most of the year. According to reviews, "there are also lots of festivals throughout the summer months" making this a cultural hotspot beyond just camping amenities. The park combines outdoor recreation with historical education opportunities.
Manhattan daytrips: Liberty Harbor RV Park offers unique urban camping opportunities with direct access to Manhattan. "Staff is average, as this is not meant to be high end. They are nice but a bit rough. We had some issues with our converter and they wanted to extort a 20% commission to allow our repair man in," notes one camper about the practicalities of urban camping.
Amusement park visits: Indian Rock RV Resort and Campground positions campers near Six Flags Great Adventure. One reviewer stated, "We stayed two nights at this park because we wanted to spend a day at Six flags... We would camp here again to go to six flags because it was easy to drive back a few minutes after a long day at the park."
What campers like
Waterfront views: Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center provides premium waterfront camping positions. A camper explains, "In our opinion this is the best site because you have an unobstructed view of Stockton Lake & the horizon over the ocean. Big rig spots are further back (around site 6-9 or so)."
Convenient urban access: NWS Earle RV Park provides practical positioning for city exploration. "It's only an hour from Manhattan & 20 more minutes from the shore. If you're planning a visit to either this campground is cheap, clean & quiet," reports one reviewer about this military facility option.
Mountain biking opportunities: Allaire State Park offers diverse trail systems from beginner-friendly to technical. A camper mentions, "Mountain Biking from easy, paved trails to several miles of single track with everything in between" making this location ideal for cyclists seeking varied terrain within camping distance.
What you should know
Military ID requirements: Multiple military facilities near Avon-by-the-Sea require Department of Defense credentials. At Range 14 Camp, a reviewer notes, "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."
Limited availability: Many campgrounds maintain waitlists during peak seasons. One camper at Military Park observed, "9 sites total & they are often booked, so need to do so in advance. Free beach just a few moments' walk down the road."
Bathroom limitations: Some facilities maintain minimal bathroom facilities. At Skyline RV Camp, "There was only 1 bathroom with small shower for all guests, however they are in the process of adding 5 more. The only bathroom did have toilet paper, a garbage can and hand soap for the sink, but no paper towels."
Sewer connection challenges: Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center RV Sites presents unique hookup configurations. "Only annoying thing was the sewer hookup is about 18 inches off the ground so you need to lift the hose when emptying the tanks to ensure it actually fully drains."
Tips for camping with families
Pack insect protection: Ticks represent a significant challenge in New Jersey campgrounds. At Allaire State Park a camper warned, "Ticks galore," while recommending the otherwise well-maintained facilities.
Proximity to attractions: Consider travel time to major family attractions when selecting campsites. Indian Rock Campground positions families conveniently near Six Flags. "The hostess was very friendly and helpful. Our site was a big pull through site," notes a first-time camper about the experience.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer playground facilities for children. At Allaire, facilities include "Playground. Campground sells firewood," making it convenient for families seeking kid-friendly amenities without leaving the camping area.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Liberty Harbor RV Park requires careful driving skills. "Getting in and out of the city is an adventure. Stay right off the highway to avoid the $30 tunnel toll. Follow RV life pro and not Waze," advises one experienced RVer about approaching this urban camping location.
Site spacing considerations: Many rv campgrounds near Avon-by-the-Sea, New Jersey feature limited spacing between sites. One camper at Liberty Harbor noted, "Sites kind of level and very close. Power and water, and convenient dump station if staying and needing to dump."
Seasonal limitations: Most Avon-by-the-Sea area RV parks operate on restricted seasonal schedules. At NWS Earle RV Park, a reviewer explained the military campground is available from "April through mid-November. 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."
