Camping options near Longport, New Jersey span across mainland areas within a 30-minute drive of Jersey Shore beaches. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with only state forest locations available year-round. The region's sandy soil conditions create efficient drainage after rainfall, though they contribute to the prevalence of mosquitoes during humid summer months. Camping facilities range from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV pads.
What to do
Lake activities: Lake Nummy at Belleplain State Forest provides swimming, fishing and boat rentals from late spring through early fall. "Nice hiking trails and playground. About 20 minutes away from the Cape May zoo," notes a camper who appreciates the natural setting.
Family recreation: Pool amenities at Ocean View Resort Campground include a pirate-themed splash pad for younger children. According to one visitor, "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."
Coastal exploration: Beach access requires a 15-minute drive from most campgrounds, with public transportation limited. "Close driving distances to local beaches and boardwalks. The pool and pirate splash pad are great for kids!" explains a camper who balanced on-site amenities with beach visits.
What campers like
Private sites: Secluded camping areas appeal to those seeking quieter experiences. A visitor to Whippoorwill Campground reports, "The sites are spacious, the pool is awesome and the staff is very friendly and efficient. Everything was clean and ready for us."
Clean facilities: Maintained bathhouses receive positive mentions at several locations. One camper notes, "Bath houses were extremely clean. Camp Store had a lot of supplies if needed," highlighting the importance of sanitation and convenience.
Seasonal activities: Halloween weekends draw significant crowds at several campgrounds. A visitor to Holly Acres RV Park shared, "Had the best Halloween weekend here! Been twice & will go back next year," indicating the popularity of themed weekends during shoulder season.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Weekend activity levels vary significantly across campgrounds. At Mays Landing Resort, "On Saturday night, there is a DJ and a dance party from 7-10 pm. It is extraordinarily loud and somewhat impossible to navigate a car through that many people."
Insect preparation: Mosquito populations increase after rainfall, particularly at campgrounds near standing water. One camper observed, "We HATE sand. This campground was on sand, but not right on the beach. The mosquitoes were vicious."
Seasonal closures: Limited winter camping options exist, with only state forest campgrounds operational year-round. A regular visitor to Bass River State Forest explains, "We have been camping at Bass River since I was a baby. The newest addition of extra pet friendly sites have made it even better because we can bring the pup."
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad access: Water play areas provide alternatives to beach days. A family staying at Ocean View Resort Campground reports, "Ocean View Resort was an excellent resort for our family with two toddlers. Kids loved the Splash Park, Arcade, Tram Car, playgrounds and Lake."
Off-site attractions: Wildlife viewing opportunities include the nearby Cape May Zoo. "My daughter loved it and we will certainly return next season!" shares a parent who visited Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake with their child.
Safety precautions: Water features require supervision at several campgrounds. A parent warns, "Parents of small children and toddlers: the tent loop is surrounded by water on 3 sides. There is no safety fence."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Uneven terrain requires preparation at most campgrounds. One RVer notes, "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: Narrow roads complicate maneuvering larger rigs. A camper observed, "The exit is very tight to get out of and all lanes are one way so be careful if you have a big rig."
Dump station congestion: Holiday weekends create significant wait times. "It was Memorial Day weekend and the line at checkout caused us to wait 2 hours to dump!! Of course then we hit all kinds of traffic coming home," shares an RVer who stayed at Belleplain State Forest.
