Tent camping near Hazlet, New Jersey offers access to both coastal and woodland environments within New Jersey's moderate climate zone. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and humidity levels between 60-80%. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations below 100 feet above sea level, providing relatively flat terrain for camping setups.
What to do
Explore military history: At Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area, visitors can examine historic military installations while camping. "The history housed on this base, with a hanger were full of old planes where dedicated veterans worked diligently to restore them, provided us up close inspection of multiple planes, including a mini-sized glider which we were granted personal access to get into," notes Susan B.
Bicycle on dedicated trails: Sandy Hook features extensive bike paths running alongside the beach areas. "There is even a trail that runs parallel to the beach making it a scenic ride. There is a cost to enter the park (unless you bike In) but it's free after 5:00," shares Maggie A.
Paddle in crystal waters: Round Valley State Park Campground offers wilderness camping with water access. "Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature," reports Ryan M. The reservoir provides opportunities for kayaking and canoeing in clear waters, though the park requires hiking or boating to reach campsites.
Historical reenactments: Washington Crossing State Park connects campers with Revolutionary War history. "Every year, they re-enact Washington's troops crossing the Delaware! It was VERY cold the year I went," shares David S. Group camping areas provide access to historical sites and river activities.
What campers like
Proximity to NYC: Many campers appreciate the ability to camp near the city while still enjoying natural surroundings. "Great visit to this Brooklyn Campsite! The site was clean and accommodating. Great way to escape the city for a night if you can't make it upstate!" says Lindsey M. about Sandy Hook.
Waterfront settings: Batona — Wharton State Forest offers tent sites with water features. "The back of the campground backs up to a beautiful creek/ swamp, and the Batona trail runs through the campground," explains Brittany L. The campground provides direct access to hiking trails from your site.
Storage solutions: Sandy Hook provides metal storage units at campsites to protect food from wildlife. "Sites also have metal storage units for locking up foodstuffs to protect them from being pilfered by the numerous and bold raccoons," notes Craig M.
Varied landscapes: Tent camping options near Hazlet range from pine forests to coastal settings. "If you want off the beaten path and not close to anyone... this is IT! You might even see the Jersey Devil," states Alyssa D. about camping in Wharton State Forest.
What you should know
Tent site access limitations: Many campgrounds require physical effort to reach sites. "No cars are permitted in the campground, so you will have to lug your gear to your spot so choose wisely my friends!" warns Christy K. about Sandy Hook.
Fire container requirements: Some parks have specific rules about fires. At Battle Row Campground, "There are NO fire pits, you must bring your own. Fires are allowed but you must have a fire container or bucket for your fire off of the ground," explains katrina M.
Limited shower facilities: Many campgrounds have basic or no shower facilities. "The campground is rustic with no showers or electricity. Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site," reports Craig M. about Sandy Hook.
Early morning noise: Quiet hours don't guarantee late sleeping. "The only downside I saw was people here are up way to early. 7am place was already loud. 7:45am a propane truck pulled in the full the propane and was extremely loud," shares Bill V. about Tip Tam Camping Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "[Battle Row Campground] playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," notes katrina M., making it suitable for families with children needing physical activities.
Consider lavender season: Pleasant Valley Lavender offers a unique camping experience with aromatic benefits. "So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods with. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ," reports Ellen K.
Pack light for hike-in sites: When camping at wilderness sites, minimize gear. Stuart K. advises about Round Valley: "Whether hiking or kayaking to this CG, you will want to bring as little with you as possible– packing too much to come here just isn't worth the work."
Reserve pavilion sites when available: Covered areas provide shelter from elements. "Some sites do have a wooden pavilion covering the picnic table," mentions Christy K. These pavilion-covered sites at Sandy Hook offer protection from sun and light rain.
Tips from RVers
Military options available: Active and retired military personnel can access dedicated RV facilities. "Small campground W/ 8 spaces in the main area and 7 in an adjacent area. All spaces are level concrete With fill hookups and attached concrete patio," describes Jeffrey about NWS Earle RV Park.
Limited big-rig accessibility: Many campgrounds near Hazlet aren't suited for larger RVs. "The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit," warns meghan G. about Batona Campground.
Consider seasonal openings: Check operating dates before planning trips. Earle RV Park operates "April 1 to November 15," while Round Valley's season runs "April 1 to October 31," making late fall and winter camping difficult to find.
Water and electric limitations: Know which hookups are available. "The site was clean and accommodating," according to Lindsey M., but many sites lack full hookups, requiring self-contained water systems and generators where permitted.
