Cape May sits at the southern tip of New Jersey where Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, with an average elevation just 10 feet above sea level. The camping season typically runs from April through October with summer temperatures averaging 85°F. Most glamping accommodations near Cape May provide electrical hookups and are situated on sandy terrain that drains quickly after rainfall.
What to do
Beach hopping: 15-20 minute drive from most campgrounds to multiple beaches with different vibes. "The cape is amazing. You can walk into the water for what seems like miles and it only gets up to your shins. There is bay access for kayaking and fishing," notes a camper at Cape Henlopen State Park Campground.
Military history tours: Explore World War II observation towers and underground bunkers. "The historic aspect of the Cape amazed me. It was a site for WWII soldiers to watch for enemy invaders. The towers are still there," reports a camper at Cape Henlopen.
Rail trail access: Cycling enthusiasts can access dedicated paths. "There is an 11 mile rail trail across the street as well," mentions a visitor at Holly Shores Camping Resort, providing a car-free way to explore the area.
Nature center visits: Free educational programs about local wildlife. "There is a fantastic nature center (FREE) complete with touch tanks and knowledgeable park staff. Free bike rentals are available, some with baby seats and trailers," shares a visitor describing the facilities at Cape Henlopen State Park.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer natural separation between sites. "Our site was HUGE!!!! It was also super private with trees and a lot of privacy from the road and our neighbors," explains a camper at Belleplain State Forest.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses with hot showers. "The bathhouse and concession stand at the beach is very nice. Sunset on the beach is absolutely serene," reports a camper at Cape Henlopen State Park.
Security features: Many campgrounds provide controlled access. "It's a gated resort which makes it incredibly safe and something that gives us piece of mind while out exploring," notes a camper at Beachcomber Camping Resort.
Off-season benefits: Visiting before peak season offers advantages. "We visited off season (early April) and absolutely loved it. The location was great and the beaches are quiet. I hear it gets packed and I see that it's hard to book if you don't book early," shares a Cape Henlopen visitor.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book 6-12 months ahead for summer stays. "We were very pleased with the size of our site. The campground was quiet and the bathhouses were clean," notes a visitor at Holly Shores, though availability becomes limited as summer approaches.
Sand management: Sites have sandy bases that can track into RVs. "All the lots have sand which can make the RV messy but it's the Jersey coast so it's to be expected," warns a visitor at Beachcomber Camping Resort.
Mosquito protection: Bring repellent, especially for wooded sites. "The mosquitos were INSANE," reports a camper at Sun Retreats Seashore Campsites & RV Resort.
Weekend crowds: Be prepared for full facilities during summer weekends. "This is a VERY busy campground. Rigs in and out daily and nearly always full," notes a Cape Henlopen camper, reflecting common conditions throughout the area.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pads and pools: Several campgrounds offer water features beyond beach access. "This place had a lot to do with kids! Lake, pool, ice cream, arcade, mini golf, mining station, activities," explains a visitor at Ocean View Resort Campground.
Beach proximity considerations: Measure walking distances from your site to beach areas. "The ocean is beautiful but a bit of a walk from the tent campsites," advises a Cape Henlopen camper about site selection.
Rental equipment: Some campgrounds offer bikes, kayaks, and golf carts. "You can rent golf carats which the kids loved and we used the whole weekend since it was so cheap & campground is huge," shares a Beachcomber visitor.
Themed weekends: Check calendar for special events. "April through October represents the primary operating season for these glamping destinations, with themed weekends and special events occurring regularly," explains a camper at Ocean View Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare for uneven ground at some locations. "None of the sites are level," notes a Cape Henlopen visitor, suggesting wheel blocks or levelers.
Site dimensions: Verify your total combined length fits designated spaces. "After some strategizing, I backed in on a diagonal or there'd be no way to open our slides. This was ok, but it meant forfeiting the use of about half of the concrete pad," shares an RV owner describing their 36-foot motorhome experience at Holly Shores.
Pump-out options: Some locations offer daily service for non-sewer sites. "They come around every day to pump out your system. One day we got missed, and I spoke to someone in the office. They were there to pump us out (special trip) within the hour," reports an RV camper appreciating the service at a glamping option close to Cape May, New Jersey.
Utility reliability: Water pressure varies between campgrounds. "It has some of the best water and electric hookups I've seen," shares a Cape Henlopen visitor, addressing a common concern for RV owners.
