Camping areas near Longport, New Jersey offer year-round options with distinct seasonal advantages. The region features sandy soil and pine forests that extend from the mainland toward barrier islands. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder conditions with fewer crowds at most facilities.
What to do
Lakeside swimming and activities: At Ocean View Resort Campground, visitors can enjoy both pool facilities and a natural swimming lake. "They just completed a new camp store building that has everything you could think of from camping gear to beach chairs and floats! They also have a cafe that also sells ice cream," notes Ray L., highlighting amenities beyond beach access.
Fishing opportunities: The inland lakes at campgrounds provide alternatives to ocean fishing. "The lake is huge, the pools are crowded but fun. There is a splash pad for little ones," mentions Kirsten J. Bass River State Forest maintains stocked freshwater fishing areas accessible to campers without additional permits during designated seasons.
Hiking through pine forests: Belleplain State Forest features multiple trail systems suited for various skill levels. "We have walked through the site areas and they seem to be a nice size but not offering too much privacy. We are usually there in the off season so not sure how crazy it gets in the warmer months with the lake being there," shares Maggie H. Most trails remain open year-round with peak hiking season from April through November.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Whippoorwill Campground receives consistent praise for site sizing. "The sites are spacious, the pool is awesome and the staff is very Friendly and efficient. Check in took less than 5 minutes. Everything was clean and ready for us," reports Mary W., emphasizing the ease of setup.
Clean facilities: Attention to maintenance stands out at many locations. "Bathhouses were extremely clean. Camp Store had a lot of supplies if needed," notes Mark A. regarding his stay at Whippoorwill. Most campgrounds in the region maintain daily cleaning schedules for shared facilities.
Kid-friendly amenities: Families appreciate dedicated recreational areas. "Ocean View Resort was an excellent resort for our family with two toddlers. Kids loved the Splash Park, Arcade, Tram Car, playgrounds and Lake," shares Ann Marie M. Many facilities offer structured weekend activities during peak season with calendars posted online.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Summer weekends bring significant visitor increases throughout the region. "It does get very crowded and definitely have to book ahead," advises Tiffany P. Most campgrounds recommend reservations 3-6 months in advance for prime summer dates, especially holiday weekends.
Variable site conditions: Holly Acres RV Park exemplifies the terrain challenges common to the area. "The sites are on the smallish side, but the staff is super nice and the facilities are maintained and clean," explains Michael W. Sites near water features may experience drainage issues during heavy rain.
Rules enforcement variations: Campground policies receive inconsistent application. "They have rules but no consequences. The 'Quiet Hours' rule of 11 PM to 8 AM is a joke as is the '5 MPH' rule," reports Philip F. regarding his experience. Most facilities post quiet hours between 10-11 PM until 7-8 AM with varying enforcement levels.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple swimming options: Facilities with both pool and natural swimming areas provide flexibility. "This place had a lot to do with kids! Lake, pool, ice cream, arcade, mini golf, mining station, activities," explains Tiffany P. about Ocean City Campground. Swimming areas typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day with lifeguards present during posted hours.
Playground quality: Recreational areas vary significantly between facilities. "The playground was great my daughter really enjoyed the scavenger hunt," notes Herbert about Mays Landing Resort. Most campgrounds maintain playground equipment suitable for ages 5-12 with limited options for younger children.
Cabin alternatives: For families new to camping, cabins provide transition options. "We stayed in one of the cabins. Which was a perfect compromise when dealing with a child that doesn't want to sleep outside," explains Michael M. about his Whippoorwill Campground stay. Cabin rentals typically cost 2-3 times standard campsite rates but include beds and basic furniture.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Bass River State Forest and other regional campgrounds feature sandy soil that can complicate setup. "Nice and clean campground, sandy sites. nice trails. great location," notes Stacey R. Most RVers recommend bringing leveling blocks and stabilization equipment regardless of campground.
Limited full hookup availability: Connections vary significantly between facilities. "It's very close to everything, but you don't even need to leave the campground! There are a ton of activities," explains Gayle B. State forest campgrounds typically offer electric-only sites while private facilities provide full hookups at premium rates.
Navigation considerations: Internal roadways present challenges for larger units. "Sites are very wooded, close to each other. Fun for kids," observes Kirsten J. Most campgrounds restrict RV size to 35 feet or less on standard sites with designated areas for larger rigs.
