Camping options near Long Beach, New Jersey range from tent sites to full-service RV resorts with hookups. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through October, though some like Shady Pines Campground remain open year-round. Weather conditions vary significantly with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and frequent coastal humidity making bug protection essential at waterside camping areas.
What to do
Beach access: Long Beach RV Resort provides a convenient base for exploring nearby beaches and coastal attractions. "Clean, quiet, lots of activities for both children and adults, and overall a great campground," notes one visitor who appreciated its location.
Fishing opportunities: Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake offers lake fishing for campers. "The lake has plenty of fish," mentions a camper who stayed multiple months at the facility. Baby turtles can sometimes be spotted hatching near water features at certain times of year.
Miniature golf: Several campgrounds maintain on-site activities including mini-golf courses. One camper at Mays Landing noted, "The miniature golf course could have been maintained better, but it was so inexpensive I couldn't consider it an issue."
What campers like
Lake swimming options: Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake provides both lake and pool swimming options. "The girls loved swimming in the lake and the pool. We were only a short drive from the beach, as well," shares a family who stayed with young children.
Clean facilities: Many campers mention well-maintained bathrooms as a priority. One visitor at Mays Landing Resort noted, "The bathroom was clean but needs to be updated a bit."
Entertainment programming: Weekend activities are common at several campgrounds. "There's a cute brewery right around the corner and a burger place called Tony Beef. We liked them both!" reported a camper staying at Shady Pines who appreciated the nearby dining options.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Multiple RV parks have uneven sites requiring extra equipment. A visitor at Shady Pines Campground explained, "The site was inadequately sized to accommodate the full length. The much bigger problem was that it sloped so much it was impossible to level."
Seasonal camper concentrations: Many campgrounds host primarily long-term residents. "This is more like a long term stay place that has a couple of short term sites," observed a Mays Landing visitor who found limited overnight options.
Weather-related site issues: Some campgrounds have drainage problems during rain. "Stay away from the front middle spots, they flood when it rains," warns a repeat visitor to Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake who otherwise enjoyed their stay.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming pools: Most campgrounds with family amenities maintain swimming pools. "Beautiful pool," noted a camper at Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake who particularly enjoyed this feature for children.
Playground facilities: Mays Landing Resort offers play areas for children. "It does have a nice playground for the little kids," mentions a visitor who found this amenity valuable during their stay. Some campgrounds also organize scavenger hunts and similar activities.
Water safety concerns: Parents should note water hazards at certain campgrounds. One reviewer at Mays Landing cautioned, "The tent loop is surrounded by water on 3 sides. There is no safety fence. The water is mostly standing water so expect mosquitoes."
Tips from RVers
Sewer connection placement: RV sites near Long Beach, New Jersey sometimes have awkwardly positioned hookups. At the Military Park NJ National Guard Training Center RV Sites, "The sewer hookup is about 18 inches off the ground so you need to lift the hose when emptying the tanks to ensure it actually fully drains."
Site navigation challenges: Many campgrounds feature narrow roads that can be difficult for larger motorhomes. "The exit is very tight to get out of and all lanes are one way so be careful if you have a big rig," advises an RVer about Mays Landing Resort.
Concrete pad availability: Some campgrounds advertise concrete pads but may not deliver. "FULL hookups as well," notes a Military Park visitor who appreciated the concrete pads that come standard at this location, making setup easier than at gravel or dirt sites.
