Camping near North Wildwood, New Jersey consists primarily of wooded sites within a 5-20 mile radius of coastal areas. The region features predominantly sandy soil conditions with pine forest coverage providing natural shade at most established campgrounds. Summer temperatures average 85°F with humidity levels frequently exceeding 70%, while spring and fall camping offers more comfortable conditions with temperatures ranging 65-75°F and significantly fewer crowds.
What to do
Beach hopping: 10-15 minutes to multiple options. At Sun Outdoors Cape May, campers appreciate the strategic location near diverse shorelines. "Sunset Beach, The Open Air Mall, and the charm of victorian Cape May are all great reasons to visit," notes Dave R., highlighting attractions beyond just beaches. The campground is "a short 5 minute drive from Cape May" making water activities easily accessible.
Visit wildlife areas: Cape May Zoo is nearby. Belleplain State Forest serves as a convenient base for nature exploration. "About 20 minutes away from the Cape May zoo," notes April E., making it ideal for family outings. The forest itself offers "plenty of space for our tent" with "nice hiking trails and playground" providing alternative activities when not at the coast.
Water recreation beyond beaches: On-site lakes and pools. Most campgrounds offer water options without driving to the ocean. At Ocean View Resort Campground, "a huge swimming pond with a beach" complements their "huge pool and unbelievable splash pad" according to Ray L. Activities extend to "kayak, paddle board rentals" and "giant inflatable slides" at many locations, reducing dependency on ocean beaches.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Natural surroundings despite coastal proximity. Cape Henlopen State Park Campground offers "a lot of privacy between the tent sites because of the trees" according to Jennifer S. The natural environment includes "over 20 miles of trails through pine trees, with views of sand dunes" making it a perfect balance of forest and coastal environments.
Family activities: Organized recreation beyond swimming. Families consistently highlight the range of activities at campgrounds. "The lake is huge, the pools are crowded but fun. There is a splash pad for little ones. Our 3 yr old loved it," notes Kirsten J. about Ocean View Resort. Many locations offer "wagon rides and lots of activities for kids" making them full vacation destinations.
Historical features: Military structures and preserved sites. Several campgrounds contain historical elements adding educational value. Cape Henlopen contains remnants of WWII coastal defense installations. "It was a site for WWII soldiers to watch for enemy invaders. The towers are still there," explains Jennifer S., with other campgrounds featuring historical structures or nature centers with educational programming.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book early for summer stays. Peak season reservations should be made months in advance as most campgrounds reach capacity. This is especially true for holiday weekends and summer dates between Memorial Day and Labor Day. "We had to book a head," notes Tiffany P. at Ocean View Resort Campground, with many campgrounds releasing summer reservations in January.
Site variations: Request specific areas for privacy. Site layouts vary dramatically within most campgrounds. "We were pleased with the size of our site. The campground was quiet and the bathhouses were clean," notes Becca U., though at the same facility another camper found "spots are tight and have some trees that occasionally make it so only a dead perfect backing could get you in." Research site maps or call ahead for recommendations.
Seasonal operation: Most facilities close October-April. The camping season in this region typically runs April through October. King Nummy Trail Campground operates "Apr 15 - Oct 27" which represents standard timing for the area. Facilities during shoulder seasons may have limited amenities with pools typically opening Memorial Day and closing Labor Day regardless of campground opening dates.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access systems: Understand scheduling requirements. Some campgrounds implement reservation systems for pool access during peak periods. "You had to sign up for pool slots, but there was plenty of openings," mentions Joel A. at Sun Outdoors Cape May, indicating that while systems exist, they generally work efficiently.
Bug protection: Mosquitoes can be problematic. The wooded, coastal environment creates ideal mosquito conditions. "The mosquitos were INSANE!" reported April L. about one facility, recommending bringing insect repellent with 25-30% DEET or picaridin, especially for evening activities. Screened shelter structures are advisable for meal preparation and dining.
Golf cart popularity: Consider renting for large campgrounds. Many families find golf carts essential at larger facilities. "We had a blast with a golf cart rental. The campground is rather large, so it felt like a necessity to having a secondary way of getting around easily as a family," explains Dave R. Rentals typically cost $45-70 per day and require advance booking.
Tips from RVers
Site surface considerations: Many sites use crushed stone. Sun Retreats Seashore Campsites & RV Resort and similar facilities often use stone surfaces rather than grass. "Tent site was fantastic, level, trees are well trimmed, but still with good coverage," notes M J., though sites are "close enough to the bathroom and water options" for convenience. Request grass sites specifically when booking if preferred.
Site spacing awareness: Seasonals occupy many prime spots. Multiple campgrounds have significant numbers of seasonal residents. "The front of the park is close to the pool and store- if pool noise is a concern you should stay further back. A mix of seasonal,'cabins' and overnight camping," advises Steve W. Many reviewers recommend requesting sites away from seasonal areas for quieter experiences.
Backing challenges: Trees and site layout require care. Larger RVs should research site dimensions carefully. "After some strategizing, I backed in on a diagonal or there'd be no way to open our slides," describes Matt S., highlighting the need for careful maneuvering at many facilities. Consider pull-through sites when available, especially for units over 30 feet.
