Tent campsites near Carteret, New Jersey offer a range of rustic to semi-developed options within an hour's drive of the metropolitan area. The region sits at the junction of coastal plains and the foothills of northern New Jersey, creating diverse camping environments from sea level beaches to wooded highlands reaching 1,200 feet elevation. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from April through October, with peak humidity levels reaching 85% during summer months.
What to do
Explore historical sites: Washington Crossing State Park provides access to significant Revolutionary War landmarks. "Every year, they re-enact Washington's troops crossing the Delaware! It was VERY cold the year I went. To warm up, there is a small visitor's center where they have a reproduction of the famous painting commemorating the moment," notes David S.
Beach activities: At Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area, campers can combine tent camping with ocean recreation. "Sandy Hook has all the necessities you need, bathroom, shower, and the occasional food truck. There is even a trail that runs parallel to the beach making it a scenic ride," shares Maggie A.
Swimming in freshwater: Round Valley State Park Campground offers crystal-clear reservoir swimming as an alternative to ocean beaches. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," explains James R.
What campers like
Wilderness feeling close to urban areas: Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area provides an unexpected camping option with city views. "This campground is amazing. You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings like a night light," notes Phillip L.
Privacy between sites: Jenny Jump State Forest offers well-spaced campsites. "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path. You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites (especially the jake brake). The sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents," observes Seth K.
Unique agricultural settings: Pleasant Valley Lavender provides tent camping with aromatherapy benefits. "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," reports Ellen K.
What you should know
Limited facilities at primitive sites: At Round Valley State Park Campground, amenities are minimal. "We paddled in, the water is very clean and crystal clear. Well maintained campsites. Fire pit had a medal grate to cook on," notes Riley K.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds near Carteret experience highway noise. At Jenny Jump State Forest, one camper mentioned, "My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night."
Storage requirements: Wildlife management is important at Sandy Hook. "Sites also have metal storage units for locking up foodstuffs to protect them from being pilfered by the numerous and bold raccoons," explains Craig M.
Tips for camping with families
Seek campgrounds with organized activities: Tip Tam Camping Resort offers family-friendly programming. "The place was fun.. they have peddle cars and playgrounds. They deliver wood to your site by the truck full! Nice little store and staff are all friendly," shares Jenn M.
Consider cabins for beginners: Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park offers an entry-level camping experience. "These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge," notes Sara P.
Look for pet-friendly options: When bringing family pets, check restrictions carefully. Jenny Jump State Forest welcomes dogs but requires a $5/day pet fee. "My husband and I tent camped in #34 with our dog. The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog," reports Kelsey K.
Tips from RVers
Military options for eligible campers: NWS Earle RV Park provides an affordable base for regional 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," advises Jeffrey.
Early morning noise considerations: At Tip Tam Camping Resort, one RVer cautions: "The only downside I saw was people here are up way too early. 7am place was already loud. 7:45am a propane truck pulled in to fill the propane and was extremely loud. 8am people with leaf blowers and chopping wood. Don't expect to sleep past 7:30am."
Bathroom facility limitations: Some campgrounds have minimal facilities. At Pine Cone Campgrounds, a visitor noted: "The campsite falls short in terms of its bathroom facilities. The stall doors are quite small and lack privacy. Moreover, only one stall has a functioning lock, which can be inconvenient during peak times."
