Mays Landing provides access to New Jersey's Pine Barrens ecosystem, with sandy soil conditions and numerous waterways shaping the camping experience. Summer temperatures average 85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with fewer insects. Most campgrounds in the region operate on varied seasonal schedules, with state forests remaining accessible year-round.
What to do
Kayaking adventures: Winding River Campground offers self-guided kayaking trips with shuttle service available. "Really enjoyed everything about this place. Kayaks. Camping. All of it. Clean and friendly," reports Scott K. The campground provides transport options for 2, 3, and 5-hour trips that return directly to the camping area.
Swimming options: The freshwater lake at Hospitality Creek Campground provides a natural swimming alternative to pools. "We had great wifi connectivity. And the firewood they sold burned for several hours," notes Matt S., who stayed at a lakefront site. Visitors can rent paddle boats to explore the lake when not swimming.
Trail exploration: Wooded hiking paths near Bass River State Forest accommodate various skill levels. "We walked and explored, kayaked, and sang by the fire. The camp sites have plenty of room for the kids to run around and set up there own areas," shares Matthew H. Nature trails range from easy family-friendly routes to longer paths through the pine forest.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Atsion Family Camp offers generous camping spaces, particularly along the waterfront. "Site G014 was awesome! It was a great location, closest site to the water with beautiful views. Super convenient if you're a Kayaker, you can launch right off that spot," writes Brianna P. Many waterfront sites include direct lake access for personal watercraft.
Family activities: Organized events keep children entertained at several dog-friendly campgrounds near Mays Landing. "For Labor Day weekend, the staff walked around Jezel, a friendly horse, and hosted a BBQ in their pavilion," reports Matt S. about his stay at Holly Acres RV Park. Weekend programming often includes themed activities during summer months.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours provide opportunities to spot native wildlife. "We stayed in a yurt. it was a great experience that we would definitely do again. There is a small lake that was great to kayak on," shares Lisa S. about Belleplain State Forest. Early risers might spot deer, various bird species, and smaller mammals throughout the campgrounds.
What you should know
Site conditions: Many campgrounds feature sandy or uneven terrain requiring preparation. "Sites are very unleveled so the staff switched us to a pull thru space that was a tad bit more level but still very unleveled," notes Daniel C. about Mays Landing Resort. Bringing leveling blocks for RVs is strongly recommended at most area campgrounds.
Bathroom facilities: Maintenance quality varies significantly between locations. "Bathhouses are very clean and updated. They have a Great swimming Lake with a huge sandy beach," writes Harry L. Alternatively, Steve comments about Atsion, "The bathrooms were in good shape. Unlike Brendan Byrne, this one had some hooks to hang your bags on."
Weekend crowds: Expect significantly higher occupancy Friday through Sunday, especially during summer. "It was Saturday and they were rocking. I dont know if the person playing the music was a professional DJ, he was incredible," reports Herbert about the weekend atmosphere at Mays Landing Resort. Many campgrounds enforce quiet hours after 10pm, though enforcement varies.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Ocean View Resort Campground provides multiple water-based options for children. "This place had a lot to do with kids! Lake, pool, ice cream, arcade, mini golf, mining station, activities," shares Tiffany P. The campground maintains a swimming beach along their lake with lifeguards on duty during peak season.
Age-appropriate amenities: Different campgrounds cater to specific age groups with varied facilities. "This was my daughters and I first camping trip. The place seemed like it was alot of regulars so it had a community vibe. The playground was great my daughter really enjoyed the scavenger hunt," notes Herbert. Consider your children's ages when selecting a campground.
Wildlife education: Many state forests offer Junior Ranger programs or nature activities. "The nature center had planned activities for families each day. The swimming lake was beautiful," shares Anne H. about Belleplain State Forest. These programs typically run weekends during summer and include guided hikes, animal identification, and craft projects.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal considerations: Most private campgrounds near Mays Landing operate April through October, with limited winter options. "We tent camped at Atsion in 2015: had flush toilets and was close to the checkin station/store as well as the beach on the lake," reports Dina S. State forests like Belleplain and Bass River remain open year-round for off-season camping.
Dump station access: Plan ahead for waste disposal as facilities vary widely. "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 Anne H. Some campgrounds charge additional fees for dump station use.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections differ between campgrounds and specific loops. "Site#15 was a level pull-thru with 50-amp electric, water, sewer, wifi, and cable. It was roomy, shady, and easy to pull in and out," describes Matt S. about Holly Acres RV Park. State forest campgrounds typically offer more primitive options with limited or no hookups.
