RV camping near Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey offers campers access to the southern New Jersey shore region and Pine Barrens wilderness areas. Campsites in this area sit on sandy soil typical of the coastal plain, with elevations rarely exceeding 50 feet above sea level. Summer humidity levels often reach 80-90% with temperatures averaging in the mid-80s, creating conditions where adequate air conditioning becomes essential for RV campers.
What to do
Fishing at Chestnut Lake: At Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake, campers can fish in the stocked lake throughout their stay. "The Lake has plenty of fish," notes reviewer Paul B., who stayed multiple months at the campground.
Swimming options: Most campgrounds feature swimming pools 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," writes Gayle B. about Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake.
Explore local breweries: Visitors staying at Shady Pines Campground have nearby craft beer options. According to Amanda M., "There's a cute brewery right around the corner and a burger place called Tony Beef. We liked them both!"
Beach access: Sites at NWS Earle RV Park position military personnel and veterans for coastal exploration. "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.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained bathhouses. At Shady Pines Campground, Amanda M. found that "the bathrooms for shower convenience after the beach were SUPER clean."
Spacious sites: Long Beach RV Resort receives praise for its layout and amenities. James G. calls it the "Nicest campground in the area" with "Clean, quiet, lots of activities for both children and adults."
Onsite activities: Some parks organize regular social events. At Mays Landing Resort, Herbert notes, "Halloween decorations were the best. The playground was great my daughter really enjoyed the scavenger hunt."
Quiet atmosphere: Military campgrounds offer peaceful settings. Jessica D. describes the Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center as "Quiet, spacious, no frills" with "plenty of space for kids to play in the field/grass area."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Mays Landing Resort, Daniel C. notes that "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."
Navigation difficulties: Some parks have complex layouts. Cyn D. describes Mays Landing Resort as having "really narrow, winding streets. It was a maze."
Weather considerations: Low-lying sites can flood during heavy rain. Aimee D. warns about Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake: "stay away from the front middle spots, they flood when it rains."
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate April through November, though Shady Pines remains available year-round. The Military Park at Sea Girt specifically operates only "Memorial Day to Labor Day."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites away from party areas: At Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake, Gayle B. notes, "the first night we stayed our neighbors were partying late into the night - not good when we have two young children with us. We moved the next morning and our next site was wonderful."
Check playground availability: Several campgrounds maintain play areas for children. Herbert mentions that at Mays Landing Resort, "The playground was great my daughter really enjoyed the scavenger hunt."
Consider mosquito protection: Insects can be problematic in water-adjacent sites. Thomas Q. mentions at Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake: "Mosquitoes are bad but that's to be expected being near water of any kind."
Tent camping safety: Families with small children should exercise caution at certain tent areas. Danielle S. warns about Mays Landing Resort: "Parents of small children and toddlers: the tent loop is surrounded by water on 3 sides. There is no safety fence."
Tips from RVers
Sewer connection height: At Military Park National Guard Training Center, Jessica D. notes, "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."
Limited camping supplies: Pack essentials before arrival. Thomas Q. mentions that Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake has "Limited store supply selection but Wawa is a 15 minute drive and Walmart is roughly the same."
Longer hookups needed: Bring extended hoses and cables. Joe D. notes about Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake: "pull through, friendly front desk, clean showers and toilet, free cable, great lounge, close to Long Beach Island and Atlantic city."
Wi-Fi and cell considerations: Connectivity varies widely. Matt S. notes that at Shady Pines Campground there's "no amenities" and other reviewers mentioned "Poor Verizon connection, no wifi in some areas."
