Camping near Egg Harbor City, New Jersey offers access to the Pine Barrens ecosystem with its sandy soil and pine forests that characterize much of southern New Jersey's landscape. Located approximately 20 miles northwest of Atlantic City, the area experiences humid summer temperatures that typically reach the mid-80s, with evening temperatures cooling to the mid-60s. Mosquitoes are prevalent during summer months, particularly near water features.
What to do
Visit local breweries: A craft brewery sits adjacent to Shady Pines Campground where visitors can sample regional brews after a day outdoors. "There's a cute brewery right around the corner and a burger place called Tony Beef. We liked them both!" according to Amanda M.
Explore nearby beaches: Most campgrounds provide convenient access to Jersey Shore beaches. At Thousand Trails Lake & Shore, "The beach is within 10ish minutes and is beautiful but you're supposed to have passes. We biked around the area and along the beach it was very nice," reports Nicole S.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds feature stocked fishing ponds with no license required for on-property fishing. At Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake, a visitor noted "Lake has plenty of fish" among the amenities.
What campers like
Swimming options: Multiple water features provide relief during hot summer days. "My daughter made friends with kids her age in the pool. My husband and son did play pool one night in the community center," shares Amanda M. about her stay at Shady Pines.
Quiet camping experience: Some campgrounds maintain peaceful environments away from highway noise. "Very quiet at night.... almost too quiet!" reports Nicole S. about Lake & Shore, showing how some properties enforce strict quiet hours.
Bike-friendly terrain: Flat topography throughout the region makes biking an accessible activity. "This is a nice, flat campground so great for bike riding," mentions a reviewer about Sun Retreats Avalon.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites throughout the region require significant leveling equipment. A visitor to Mays Landing Resort reported, "Site are very unleveled so the staff switched us to a pull thru space that was a tad bit more level but still very unleveled."
Mosquito preparation: Standing water around camping areas creates mosquito breeding grounds. "The mosquitos were INSANE!" reports a camper at Sun Retreats Seashore, highlighting the importance of repellent and mesh screens.
Seasonal population: Many campgrounds primarily house long-term seasonal campers. "This is more like a long term stay place that has a couple of short term sites," explains Sonyia W. about Mays Landing Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Kid-friendly amenities vary significantly between properties. One reviewer at Mays Landing Resort noted, "It does have a nice playground for the little kids," making it suitable for families with younger children.
Beach access logistics: Family beach trips require planning for permits and parking. "We were close to the Cape May beaches. Cold Spring Brewery wasn't too far and was fun," shares a visitor to Sun Retreats Avalon.
Water safety considerations: Lakes and water features may lack fencing. At King Nummy Trail Campground, "The pool was great. They have 2 on site with a shallower one and an 8ft," reports Gennifer K., showing the range of swimming options for different ages.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: RV campers report difficulty maneuvering through narrow campground roads. "The roadways are narrow and there isn't a lot of maneuvering room. We stayed in site 402a and it was a nightmare backing in and getting out of," warns Stephanie H. about Sun Retreats Avalon.
Site selection strategy: Request specific site numbers based on size and leveling needs. Thomas Q. from Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake recommends, "Limited store supply selection but Wawa is a 15 minute drive and Walmart is roughly the same so that's good enough for me."
Seasonal booking considerations: RV camping near Egg Harbor City, New Jersey often requires advance planning. "I would like to go in season but you have to reserve a year in advance," advises a Thousand Trails Lake & Shore visitor, highlighting the competitive booking situation during peak months.
