The New Jersey Pine Barrens region surrounding Brigantine contains over 1.1 million acres of forest ecosystem with sandy soil and acidic water bodies. Campgrounds near Brigantine typically operate from April through October, with peak season bringing higher rates and larger crowds from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Most locations require advance reservations during summer months.
What to do
Paddling adventures: Access calm waters at Wharton State Forest, where multiple launch points accommodate kayaks and canoes. "Our site was right on Wading River and we launched our kayaks right at the site! Our tent has a full view of the sky and at night it was like a planetarium as we admired the sky from our cots," notes Dina S. The Atsion Recreation Area offers both rentals and guided water tours.
Historic sites exploration: Visit preserved buildings at Batsto Village, located 15 minutes from several campgrounds. "Batsto is a 15 minute drive. Hikes start either there or you can access from Atsion as well. There are little trails around the campsite too," explains Steve, a visitor to Atsion Family Camp.
River tubing: Float down the Wading River at Wading Pines Camping Resort, which offers a natural current ideal for inner tubes. "We had a great time tubing on the river. Have someone drop you off at Hawkins Bridge and float down to the campground. A little over 2 hour ride," reports Stacy D. The resort provides tube rentals for $12 daily.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate Sea Pirate Campground's shaded pull-through locations. "Our site (#516) with picnic table and grill/fire pit. The site was big enough for our motor home and toad. Full hook-ups with 50-amp service. Mature shade trees made the site more comfortable given the July heat," explains Matt S.
Convenient payment systems: Campgrounds near Brigantine have modernized their payment methods for on-site purchases. "They have a great store and eatery near the pool. Purchases can be easily made using their wristbands (provided at check-in). No need to carry cash or credit cards around the campground," notes a Sea Pirate Campground visitor.
Family activities: Ocean View Resort Campground provides structured recreation for children throughout the season. "This place had a lot to do with kids! Lake, pool, ice cream, arcade, mini golf, mining station, activities," writes Tiffany P. Most resorts schedule weekend events from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Fall brings special themed weekends to many campgrounds. "Came the weekend before the real Halloween, and the grounds were pretty deserted. We rented a golf cart and did some of the activities like painting and playing bingo. We enjoyed the grounds they are beautiful with the pools, lake, and ocean," shares Nicole S. about her October visit to Sea Pirate Campground.
Bug activity: Insects can be problematic in certain areas, particularly near standing water. "The bugs were just unbearable day & night. You couldn't even sit outside by the fire. Even walking the dog was a challenge. I have been camping for years and I have never experienced mosquitoes & flys like this," cautions Happy Camper L. Bring high-concentration DEET repellent, particularly for evening hours.
Campsite conditions: Belleplain State Forest offers more rustic options than private resorts. "Our site was HUGE!!!! It was also super private with trees and a lot of privacy from the road and our neighbors. We had friends stay in the lean-tos nearby and others visit. We had room to park several cars," reports Anne H. State forest sites typically have fewer amenities but more space between neighbors.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Swimming areas vary widely across campgrounds near Brigantine. "The heated swimming pool was large and the water crystal clear. The store was stocked with typical essentials like supplies, fire wood, and snacks," notes Matt S. about his stay at Sea Pirate Campground. Most lakefront properties maintain separate swimming zones with lifeguards during summer months.
Entertainment schedules: Weekend activities increase significantly during summer. "We just stayed for two nights. There is so much to do that we did not even get to it all. We also went to Long Beach Island and were happy with how clean and quiet the beach was," reports Stephanie H. Request activity calendars when making reservations.
Playground facilities: Atlantic Shore Pines Campground offers multiple play areas for different age groups. "The campground is now known as Atlantic Shore Pines. 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," explains Dave B. Most private campgrounds maintain designated kid zones.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at many campgrounds. "I called and made a same day reservation at 11 am and was charged 60$ then when we arrived at 630pm the same day we were told our reservation was for the day before. I was charged double what they originally told me, but was able to get a spot luckily," shares Marcie S. about her experience at Sea Pirate Campground. Bring additional leveling blocks for most locations.
Water pressure variations: Utilities can fluctuate during peak usage times. "We had a problem with our site: extremely low water pressure, often below 20 PSI. It was so low at times, that we couldn't take showers or flush the toilet. At some times, it was a bearable 40 PSI," reports Matt S. Consider bringing a water pressure regulator and extra freshwater.
Road conditions: Mays Landing Resort has narrow access roads that challenge larger rigs. "The park is a little run down and spots are super crowded with really narrow, winding streets. It was a maze," notes Cyn D. When making reservations, verify turn radius requirements for your specific site.
