Tent camping near Highlands, New Jersey offers options beyond the shoreline sites most visitors know about. The area sits at the northern tip of the Jersey Shore where Sandy Hook Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, with elevations ranging from sea level to 266 feet at nearby Telegraph Hill. Summer temperatures average 85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder conditions with temperatures between 55-75°F.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Sandy Hook: The Gateway National Recreation Area serves as a critical migratory bird stopover point. "Rangers at the entrance regulate admittance thus, providing a safe environment within the confines of the base. With views from the campsite looking out to the sea, the skyline of NYC on the left & NJ on the right, it was awe inspiring and, the sunset was a real treat!!" shared Susan B. about Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area.
Historical exploration: Visit the military installations and lighthouse at Sandy Hook. "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," according to a Sandy Hook camper.
Water activities on Round Valley Reservoir: The 2,350-acre reservoir offers swimming, boating and fishing. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," notes a visitor to Round Valley State Park Campground.
What campers like
Scenic views: The combination of water and city skyline creates unique photo opportunities. "Our crew was quite at home here. It rained on every campsite except ours. The land loves us and we love the land. #leavenotrace," reports Andi L. about Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area.
Secluded campsites: Many sites offer privacy despite proximity to urban areas. "Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quit. Gorgeous sunset, Beautiful views. Really helpful people at the office. Would definitely recommend to come check it out for yourself," says T K. about Round Valley State Park Campground.
Fragrant camping experience: "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," writes Ellen K. about Pleasant Valley Lavender.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Many sites have minimal amenities. "The campground is rustic with no showers or electricity. Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site. No vehicles allowed at the campsite. Some of the sites do have a wooden pavilion covering the picnic table," explains Craig M. about Sandy Hook.
Hike-in challenges: Round Valley requires significant effort to reach campsites. "This is a great campground that is super private and quiet - great for getting out to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort!" notes Agbi B.
Prepare for wildlife encounters: Local wildlife can be persistent at campgrounds. "Stock up before arriving, as there are no supply stores inside the park, so head on over to nearby Weis Markets in Langhorne or ShopRite in Fairless Hills, both of which are on the PA-side," advises a camper at Washington Crossing State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," shares a visitor to Battle Row Campground.
Tent site selection: Choose tent sites farther from main areas for quieter family experience. "Our site was #59, well shaded and spacious. The water spigot and the gray-water dump are not right by the tent sites. Seems silly since the tents are the ones using them," notes katrina M. about Battle Row Campground.
Educational opportunities: Visit historical sites as learning experiences. "Washington's crossing is beautiful and historic. We often bike along the canal there. There are farms and animals to see, hikes along the Delaware river, Bowman's tower with a great view of the surrounding area and much more," suggests Olivia M. about Washington Crossing State Park.
Tips from RVers
Camp amenities: Look for campgrounds with full hookups. "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. Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection," reports Jeffrey about NWS Earle RV Park.
Activity options: Some RV parks offer structured recreation. "The place was fun. They have peddle cars and playgrounds. They deliver wood to your site by the truck full! Nice little store and staff are all friendly. My only issue is that there are no trees. It feels like you're camping out in a field with mostly sand around," shares Jenn M. about Tip Tam Camping Resort.
Morning noise levels: Be prepared for early rising campers. "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. 8am people with leaf blowers and chopping wood. Don't expect to sleep past 7:30am," warns Bill V. about Tip Tam.
