Dispersed camping sites near Downe, New Jersey remain limited due to the area's protected wetlands and wildlife management areas. The region sits at just 13 feet above sea level with extensive salt marshes and tidal creeks defining the landscape. Most campers visiting this coastal area choose from established campgrounds within a 25-mile radius that offer various accommodation types including luxury glamping options.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 10-15 miles from Downe: Belleplain State Forest provides accessible fishing at Lake Nummy. "Fishing was good from our inflatable kayak. Beautiful lake. Very nice hiking trails," notes one reviewer at Belleplain State Forest. The lake allows small boats with electric motors only.
Historic exploration: 40 minutes north: Cape Henlopen State Park features remnants of military installations. "As a former military installation, there are lots of military historical items and sites. Underground bunkers and batteries and such. There's a wonderful observation tower built on top of one of these that affords beautiful 360 degree views," explains a visitor to Cape Henlopen.
Diverse trail systems: 5-20 miles from Downe: Parvin State Park offers flat, accessible trails. "It's basically pancake flat terrain," reports one camper at Parvin State Park Campground. The trails connect to multiple camping areas and the lake, making them suitable for all ability levels.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Cape May area: Sun Outdoors Cape May (formerly Holly Shores) receives praise for their site size. A camper notes, "We were very pleased with the size of our site. The campground was quiet and the bathhouses were clean." The campground maintains wooded sites that provide natural shade and privacy.
Resort-style amenities: Elmer area: Luxury glamping near Downe, NJ often includes access to water features. "The water area is great, splash pad is very fun so is the large blow up slide and pool area," says a visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park. Their rental yurts provide a comfortable glamping experience with proximity to water attractions.
Year-round availability: Northern Delaware: Lums Pond State Park operates all seasons, rare for glamping sites near Downe. "In February, about 1/4 of the sites were occupied. It was very quiet. The sites are large and well spaced," says a winter visitor to Lums Pond State Park Campground. The bathroom facilities remain open with heat during colder months.
What you should know
Dump station limitations: 15 miles from Downe: At Belleplain State Forest, the single dump station serves all camping areas. "The worst was the dump station. It is just a little hole on the side of the road and the ONLY dump station for the 3 campgrounds! It was very unlevel and not easy to fully dump our tanks," warns a camper. Holiday weekends can create long lines.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds: Cape Henlopen campground fills quickly. "I hear it gets packed and I see that it's hard to book if you don't book early," advises a visitor at Cape Henlopen State Park Campground. For luxury glamping experiences near Downe, bookings should be made 3-6 months ahead.
Water quality issues: Southern New Jersey: Some campgrounds report mineral-heavy water. A Parvin State Park camper mentions, "The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing... The toilets were clean but had the orange staining from the iron in the water." Consider bringing drinking water for certain locations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly glamping options: 25 miles from Downe: Beachcomber Camping Resort offers unique accommodations. "We stayed in a teepee and it is one of the coolest places I have camped. These days I like glamping and this was the best experience yet!" shares an enthusiastic visitor to Beachcomber Camping Resort. Their teepee structures provide an elevated glamping experience.
Free recreation equipment: Delaware parks: Some state parks provide complimentary activities. A Cape Henlopen visitor notes, "Free bike rentals are available, some with baby seats and trailers." This amenity saves families from hauling additional equipment.
Safety considerations: Water areas: Ocean View Resort Campground implements safety protocols. "A nice lake with water sports, hiking trails that are dog friendly, plenty of campsites. If you have kids staying longer for the lake would make sense. bring bug spray!!" advises a camper. Supervise children at water features and pack insect protection.
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: Wooded campgrounds: Seashore Campsites' layout varies widely. "We had a large pull through lot with our 36 foot fifth wheel. Friends had a tiny lot with their shorter camper. They had no privacy," reports a visitor to Sun Retreats Seashore Campsites & RV Resort. Request specific site details when booking.
Hookup placement issues: Some parks have awkward utility locations. "The site offered electric and water but they were on 2 different sides. This made it difficult to set up. Had to park the camper crooked to use both," shares a camper at Lums Pond. Bring extension cords and extra water hoses.
Leveling requirements: Many coastal campgrounds have uneven sites. "None of the sites are level," notes a Cape Henlopen visitor. Bring additional leveling blocks, especially for larger rigs at these glamping-adjacent locations near Downe, New Jersey.
