Best Campgrounds near Long Branch, NJ
Campgrounds near Long Branch, New Jersey include a mix of developed facilities and rustic tent sites concentrated primarily along the coastline and inland wooded areas. Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area offers walk-in tent camping with ocean views, situated just north of Long Branch on a peninsula with beaches and historic military sites. Within 20 miles of Long Branch, several established campgrounds provide a range of accommodation types, including Turkey Swamp Park with tent, RV, and cabin options, and Allaire State Park (temporarily closed) which typically offers similar amenities. Cheesequake State Park Campground lies approximately 25 miles northwest with primitive tent sites and limited RV spaces. The area features both public recreation areas and private camping resorts that accommodate various camping styles.
Seasonal considerations heavily influence camping options in the region, with most facilities operating between April and October. Sandy Hook requires all camping gear to be carried to sites, and fire restrictions apply with outside firewood prohibited. Several campgrounds, including Turkey Swamp Park, close during winter months, while others like Cheesequake State Park operate from April through October. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for summer weekends when shore destinations experience peak visitation. Military facilities like NWS Earle RV Park and Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center RV Sites require proper identification and have restricted access. According to one visitor, "Sandy Hook has all the necessities you need, bathroom, shower, and the occasional food truck. There is even a trail that runs parallel to the beach making it a scenic ride."
The shoreline and beach proximity represent significant draws for campers visiting the Long Branch area. Campers frequently mention Sandy Hook's unique position offering both bay and ocean access, with bicycle-friendly paths connecting campgrounds to beaches. Reviews highlight the historical elements available at several campgrounds, including lighthouse tours and military history exhibits. Campground amenities vary considerably, with some locations offering full hookups while others maintain more primitive facilities. A review noted, "Activities abound: hit the beaches for water sports or sunbathing, learn about the military history of the area on an NPS tour, visit the oldest working lighthouse in the US, walk or bike the multi-use trails." Wildlife encounters receive mixed mentions, with several Sandy Hook reviews noting issues with raccoons and insects that require proper food storage. Private camping resorts in the region typically offer more amenities than public campgrounds but at higher nightly rates.
