Tent camping near Red Bank, New Jersey places campers within 45 miles of New York City in Monmouth County, where sandy coastal areas meet dense inland forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall bring milder conditions ranging from 55-70°F. These seasonal conditions influence campground availability, with most locations operating from April through October.
What to do
Beach activities at Sandy Hook: The Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area offers extensive shoreline access with designated swimming areas. "Ocean is close with lifeguards. Good fishing and pleasant people. Boat from New York City," notes camper Stanley S.
Historical exploration: Civil War and Revolutionary War sites dot the region around Red Bank. "The history housed on this base, with a hanger were full of old planes where dedicated veterans worked diligently to restore them, provided us up close inspection of multiple planes," explains Susan B. about Sandy Hook.
Horseshoe games and playground access: Battle Row Campground provides family-friendly recreation areas. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," writes Katrina M., noting these amenities complement the quiet camping atmosphere.
Hiking woodland trails: The Batona Trail runs directly through Batona — Wharton State Forest campsites. "Walking trails begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible," explains Meghan G., highlighting the convenience for hikers.
What campers like
Proximity to urban areas: Many campsites offer natural settings with surprisingly easy city access. "Great visit to this Brooklyn Campsite! The site was clean and accommodating. Great way to escape the city for a night if you can't make it upstate!" explains Lindsey M. about Sandy Hook.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers frequently observe native animals at various campgrounds. "It is so easy to get lost in these woods and I LOVE IT! I grew up near the pine barrens and would camp here many times with friends. If you want off the beaten path and not close to anyone... this is IT!" shares Alyssa D. about Wharton State Forest.
Lavender farm camping: For a unique tent camping experience near Red Bank, Pleasant Valley Lavender offers sites adjacent to aromatic fields. "So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods with. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ," writes Ellen K.
Water recreation: Multiple reservoir and coastal camping options exist within 40 miles of Red Bank. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," notes James R. about Round Valley.
What you should know
Fire restrictions and equipment: Some campgrounds require portable fire containers. At Battle Row, "There are NO fire pits, you must bring your own. Fires are allowed but you must have a fire container or bucket for your fire off of the ground," explains Katrina M.
Limited shower facilities: Bathroom amenities vary widely between campgrounds. At Battle Row, "There were lots of showers but only 1 was unlocked (free and with hot water). The bathroom was very clean and well stocked," reports Katrina M.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Red Bank require advance booking. "The closest ranger station for checking in and purchasing wood is about a 20 minute drive," notes Brittany L. about Batona Campground.
Site conditions at Round Valley State Park Campground: For wilderness campers, "The hike is a 3 mile minimum 6 max. The view was KILLER," according to James R., who adds practical details about water: "We just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Battle Row provides central recreation areas for children. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," notes Katrina M., making it suitable for families needing structured activities.
Educational opportunities: Historic sites offer learning experiences alongside camping. At Sandy Hook, Susan B. describes, "The ability to view our military history was fabulous and, too, was our appreciation to those veterans for their past service. Then, there were pictures of the pilot, Amelia Erhart, on the wall of this base as she'd taken off from this base on her infamous flight."
Accessible trail systems: Flat, easy trails accommodate younger hikers at some locations. At Tip Tam Camping Resort, "The place was fun.. they have peddle cars and playgrounds. They deliver wood to your site by the truck full! Nice little store and staff are all friendly," according to Jenn M.
Early morning activity: Families should prepare for active campgrounds in daylight hours. "The only downside I saw was people here are up way to early. 7am place was already loud. 7:45am a propane truck pulled in the full the propane and was extremely loud. 8am people with leaf blowers and chopping wood. Don't expect to sleep past 7:30am," warns Bill V. about Tip Tam.
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Most tent camping areas near Red Bank have restricted RV access or separate RV areas. "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle. Site are suitable for tents or small campers. The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit," explains Meghan G. about Batona Campground.
Military base camping options: Active and retired military personnel have additional options. "NWS Earle RV Park is close to central Jersey shore and Great Adventure. While mostly a seasonal campground there are several transiat sites with full hookup. This campground is well managed and it shows. All sites are well maintained and cared for," writes Brian S.
Power connection placement: RVers should note utility layout when selecting sites. At NWS Earle, "All spaces are level concrete With fill hookups and attached concrete patio. Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection," explains Jeffrey.
