The campgrounds near North Wildwood sit on New Jersey's southern cape where sandy soil dominates the terrain. Most locations are positioned within 15 miles of either Delaware Bay or Atlantic Ocean beaches, creating a moderate coastal climate with summer temperatures averaging 85°F. The area's flat topography makes most campgrounds accessible for all camping styles with minimal elevation changes.
What to do
Biking on dedicated trails: The 11-mile rail trail across from Sun Outdoors Cape May provides excellent cycling opportunities. "There is an 11 mile rail trail across the street as well," notes Joel A., who appreciated this amenity even during pandemic restrictions.
Explore local breweries: Craft beer enthusiasts can visit breweries near camping areas. Steve W. mentions, "If you like craft beer there is a brewery about 2 miles away towards Cape May" when describing his stay at Sun Outdoors Cape May, making it convenient for evening entertainment.
Free beach options: Discover no-cost beach alternatives to popular paid beaches. Brian C. from Sun Outdoors Cape May points out, "Sunset and beaches on either side if ferry terminal jetti are free and no cost to park. They are on the bay so small waves."
Hiking wooded trails: Belleplain State Forest offers extensive hiking paths through southern New Jersey woodlands. April E. describes it as a "very nice campground tucked away in southern NJ" with "nice hiking trails" that are also dog-friendly according to other visitors.
What campers like
Well-maintained seasonal sites: Many campgrounds feature impressively decorated seasonal areas. Dina S. notes that Holly Shores has "some of the best looking seasonal I've seen decked out with tiki bars, etc." These sites often showcase creative landscaping and personalized outdoor spaces.
Lake swimming alternatives: Ocean View Resort Campground offers lake swimming options beyond ocean beaches. Ray L. describes "a great swimming pond with a beach" that complements their "huge pool and unbelievable splash pad," providing water recreation without beach traffic.
Multiple water recreation options: Campers appreciate varied water amenities at single locations. Dave R. highlights Sun Outdoors Cape May's "nice lake with a giant inflatable slide, floating trampoline, kayak and paddle board rentals" alongside "a decent pool," creating multiple activity options without leaving the campground.
Gated security: Beachcomber Camping Resort offers enhanced security features valued by families. Mark F. appreciates that "It's a gated resort which makes it incredibly safe and something that gives us piece of mind while out exploring."
What you should know
Campground internet limitations: WiFi can be problematic at area campgrounds. Kim D. states simply about Sun Outdoors Cape May: "Love the place, but their wi-fi is awful." Brett L. similarly notes about Sun Retreats Seashore Campsites & RV Resort: "WiFi spotty. Bathrooms clean."
Cash-only policies: Some facilities require cash payment. Jackie F. warns about The Depot Travel Park: "This is a cash only establishment! Everywhere! You literally have to mail them a check to hold your reservation and also they do nothing online."
Site size variations: Campground sites vary significantly in size and privacy. M J. explains about Sun Retreats Seashore: "Tent site was fantastic, level, trees are well trimmed, but still with good coverage, sites are a nice size." However, Cynthia D. notes: "We had a large pull through lot with our 36 foot fifth wheel. Friends had a tiny lot with their shorter camper. They had no privacy."
Golf cart issues: Many campers mention problems with golf cart usage. Matthew E. states: "The golf carts were the absolute worst, people don't obey the speed limit on these things (and there are a lot of them whizzing around...)." Mark F. adds: "The only complaint I have and seemingly many others is that the speed limit is not enforced and way too many people drive through VERY quick 15mph+."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water amenities: Cape Henlopen State Park Campground offers nature-based water activities. Chris G. reports: "We visited off season (early April) and absolutely loved it. The location was great and the beaches are quiet." Jennifer S. notes "The ocean is beautiful but a bit of a walk from the tent campsites."
Free recreation equipment: Some campgrounds provide complimentary activity equipment. Lisa B. mentions Cape Henlopen has "Free bike rentals are available, some with baby seats and trailers," saving families from transporting bulky recreational gear.
Interactive nature programs: Educational activities are available at select sites. Jennifer S. values Belleplain State Forest's nature center that had "planned activities for families each day," providing structured entertainment options.
Budget-friendly activities: Ocean View Resort offers activities beyond swimming. Tiffany P. highlights "Lake, pool, ice cream, arcade, mini golf, mining station, activities" that provide entertainment options regardless of weather conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: Sun Retreats Avalon presents backing challenges at certain sites. Stephanie H. cautions: "The roadways are narrow and there isn't a lot of maneuvering room. We stayed in site 402a and it was a nightmare backing in and getting out of. We have a 42 ft 5th wheel but the website said it could accommodate the size."
Uneven surfaces: Campsites may require leveling equipment. Adam and Suzanne B. warn about Cape Henlopen: "None of the sites are level. Sites are mostly small and close together."
Dump station limitations: Multiple campgrounds sharing facilities can create delays. Anne H. explains about Belleplain State Forest: "The worst was the dump station. It is just a little hole on the side of the road and the ONLY dump station for the 3 campgrounds! It was very unlevel and not easy to fully dump our tanks."
Site measurement accuracy: Verify site dimensions for larger RVs. Matt S. notes about Sun Outdoors Cape May: "We were disappointed by the cramped site assignment because I'd indicated the size of our RV when making the reservation. There were a handful of empty sites that could have more easily accommodated our rig."