Full hookup RV camping is widely available in the coastal region surrounding Island Heights, New Jersey. Located within Ocean County along the Toms River, Island Heights provides access to both inland waterways and Atlantic Ocean beaches within a 20-mile radius. Most campgrounds in this area operate seasonally from April through November, though several military facilities maintain different operating schedules.
What to do
Beach access: Campers at Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center can walk to a free beach from their campsite. "Free beach just a few moments' walk down the road. Close to shore towns & many restaurants," notes Jessica D.
Fishing opportunities: The lake at Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake provides freshwater fishing without needing ocean access. A camper reports, "Good fishing, good people, nice shaded and sunny spots, beautiful pool."
Theme park visits: When staying at Indian Rock RV Resort, Six Flags Great Adventure is a short drive away. "We stayed two nights at this park because we wanted to spend a day at Six flags... it was easy to drive back a few minutes after a long day at the park," shares Valen K.
What campers like
Military discounts: Active duty and retired military personnel receive significant discounts at NWS Earle RV Park, where concrete pads include attached patios. "It's only an hour from Manhattan & 20 more minutes from the shore. If you're planning a visit to either this campground is cheap, clean & quiet," writes Jeffrey.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain exceptionally clean bathroom facilities. At Shady Pines Campground, one camper specifically noted, "The bathrooms for shower convenience after the beach were SUPER clean."
Lake swimming: Many families appreciate lake swimming options as alternatives to ocean beaches. "The girls loved swimming in the lake and the pool. We were only a short drive from the beach, as well," says a reviewer about Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most RV parks near Island Heights operate between April and November, with peak rates during summer months. "We stayed in site #1 with our 21' travel trailer... 9 sites total & they are often booked, so need to do so in advance," reports a visitor to Military Park.
Limited amenities: Some campgrounds market themselves as resorts but offer minimal facilities. "Other than a small swimming pool and a small fenced area for dogs, there were no amenities," noted one camper about Shady Pines.
Flooding concerns: Low-lying sites at Long Beach RV Resort and similar campgrounds can become problematic after rain. "Stay away from the front middle spots, they flood when it rains," warns Aimee D. about Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Multiple RV parks near Island Heights feature swimming pools for children when beach conditions aren't ideal. James G. calls Long Beach RV Resort the "nicest campground in the area" with "lots of activities for both children and adults."
Meeting other families: Seasonal campgrounds often host weekend activities where children can socialize. "My daughter made friends with kids her age in the pool. They had a little party by the pool with a DJ and food on July 3rd," shares a camper about Shady Pines.
Site selection for safety: Request sites away from roads or water features when traveling with young children. "Plenty of space for kids to play in the field/grass area. TONS of geese everywhere though," mentions a Military Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the sandy coastal region have significant grading issues. "We have a small TT and pulled back as far as we could otherwise we would have been on a slope," explains Amanda M. at Shady Pines Campground.
Sewer connection height: Some rv parks in Island Heights have unusual sewer connection configurations. "Only annoying thing was the sewer hookup is about 18 inches off the ground so you need to lift the hose when emptying the tanks to ensure it actually fully drains," notes a Military Park visitor.
Site size limitations: Larger rigs may face challenges at certain facilities. "A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection," warns an NWS Earle visitor, highlighting how hookup placement can affect parking position.
