Camping cabins near Downe, New Jersey offer access to southern New Jersey's distinctive pine barrens and coastal wetlands. The region sits within the Atlantic Coastal Plain, characterized by flat terrain with elevations rarely exceeding 20 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures range from 70-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while spring and fall months provide more moderate camping conditions in the 50-70°F range.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 5-6 miles from most campgrounds. Cape Henlopen State Park Campground provides dedicated fishing access with a large open pier. "The camp store had lots of little items that I needed. And there was a Little Library. The hikes in the campground are beautiful. The historic aspect of the Cape amazed me," notes one visitor who enjoyed the well-stocked tackle shop on the pier.
Beach access: 10-15 minute drive from inland sites. Sun Outdoors Cape May puts visitors close to several beach options. "We were very pleased with the size of our site. The campground was quiet and the bathhouses were clean. We happened to be there when it was 100 degrees so we definitely noticed that the bathhouses weren't air conditioned," shares one camper who appreciated the location despite the heat.
Nature trails: Several miles of trails at most parks. Hiking paths at Cape Henlopen State Park Campground provide both wooded and coastal exploration. A visitor notes: "There are miles upon miles of walking and biking trails. There are nice play facilities for kids, loads of water and beach access. Great fishing, with a large open pier complete with well stocked, well informed and reasonably priced tackle shop on the pier."
Watercraft rentals: Available at several locations for $6-15 per hour. Killens Pond State Park Campground offers paddleboats, canoes, and kayaks. "We rented a paddle boat, which was $6 for a half hour. Each paddle boat holds 4 and are easy to use. They also have canoes and kayaks to rent," mentions a visitor who took advantage of these affordable water activities.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Available at most campgrounds. Sun Retreats Seashore Campsites & RV Resort maintains its facilities well. "Tent site was fantastic, level, trees are well trimmed, but still with good coverage, sites are a nice size. Close enough to the bathroom and water options. Campground well appointed. Nice pool, clean showers, quarters for a shower," reports one tent camper who stayed in September.
Swimming options: Both pool and natural water features. Ocean View Resort Campground offers multiple swimming venues. "First time camping at the Jersey shore. This campground had it all from a huge pool and unbelievable splash pad to a great swimming pond with a beach! They just completed a new camp store building that has everything you could think of," shares an enthusiastic visitor.
Seasonal activities: Planned events throughout camping season. Beachcomber Camping Resort coordinates regular activities for families. "The entire family had fun. Kids were super happy about all the activities this campground has to offer. Staff is great as well," notes a family that found plenty to keep everyone engaged during their stay.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Prepare for variable conditions. When camping in the Downe area, weather can change quickly, especially near water. A visitor to Sun Outdoors Cape May observes: "We were really happy we didn't have to shower in them since they were so hot. The pool was warm but it could have been cleaner. The lake was so warm that it made us wonder what kind of bacteria was growing in it."
Reservation requirements: Book well in advance for peak season. Most campgrounds in the region fill quickly between Memorial Day and Labor Day. "We stayed in site 148(old#SO4)... Site was ample sized as most sites were. The front of the park is close to the pool and store- if pool noise is a concern you should stay further back. A mix of seasonal,'cabins' and overnight camping," notes a visitor who planned ahead.
Environmental concerns: Be prepared for bugs. Mays Landing Resort and other campgrounds in the region have issues with insects, especially after rain. "Site F 17 is the lowest point of the tent loop, which won't be a problem unless it rains. Unfortunately, it rained 3 inches one day and I literally dug a trench around the tent to keep it dry. F15 is on the high side and slightly larger site, request it if you can," advises a camper who dealt with wet conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Pool and splash features: Check operating hours before planning. Ocean View Resort Campground offers excellent water activities for children. "This place had a lot to do with kids! Lake, pool, ice cream, arcade, mini golf, mining station, activities. Does get very crowded and definitely have to book ahead. We loved where our site was located," explains a family visitor.
Playground accessibility: Consider distance from your site. Killens Pond State Park Campground offers convenient play areas. "Our site is also the closest to the playground. You can't hear the kids on the playground, but it's close enough to be able to send them in a group and call for them," mentions a parent who appreciated the layout.
Safety considerations: Scout the surroundings first. Some campgrounds have natural hazards parents should note. "Parents of small children and toddlers: the tent loop is surrounded by water on 3 sides. There is no safety fence. The water is mostly standing water so expect mosquitoes," warns a visitor to Mays Landing Resort who observed this potential concern.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Request specific locations if possible. Spacious Skies Country Oaks provides level sites with good hookups. "We stayed in pull-thru site#12 which was level, covered in clean gravel, had a concrete patio with picnic table and Adirondack chairs, and a nice fire ring. The site was big enough for our motor home. Full hook-ups with 50-amp service all worked fine," shares an RV owner.
Navigation challenges: Narrow roads at some campgrounds. Sun Retreats Seashore Campsites provides detailed arrival information. "The exit is very tight to get out of and all lanes are one way so be careful if you have a big rig," cautions an RV camper who negotiated the tight roads.
Hookup reliability: Facilities vary widely between parks. Cape Henlopen State Park gets high marks for utilities. "It has some of the best water and electric hookups I've seen. The tent sites are a good size and have a good mix of shade and sun. They also have an RV and camper section," notes a visitor familiar with both tent and RV camping.