Cape May County offers diverse camping experiences within 20 miles of Villas, New Jersey. The region features sandy pine forests that provide natural shade at many campgrounds while maintaining proximity to beaches. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F with occasional rain showers, creating moderate humidity that can affect camping conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: Sun Outdoors Cape May (formerly Holly Shores) provides access to an 11-mile rail trail directly across the street. "There is an 11 mile rail trail across the street as well," notes Joel A., highlighting outdoor recreation beyond beach activities.
Historical sites: Cape Henlopen State Park Campground offers extensive military history exploration opportunities. "As a former military installation, there are lots of military historical items and sites. Underground bunkers and batteries and such. There's a wonderful observation tower built on top of one of these that affords beautiful 360 degree views," explains Lisa B.
Beach driving: Multiple beaches near Cape Henlopen State Park Campground permit vehicle access with proper permits. "If you want the experience of driving on the beach - go for it!" recommends Stu T., though specific permit information should be verified in advance.
Water recreation: The calm waters near Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay provide ideal conditions for paddleboarding. "It was fun paddle boarding on the calm water," notes Erika S., mentioning the controlled environment suitable for beginners.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Belleplain State Forest maintains well-kept bathroom facilities even during peak season. "Bath house was a little run down, but serviceable," reports Brett D., who still rated the overall experience positively despite minor facility limitations.
Seasonal activities: Beachcomber Camping Resort schedules regular events throughout their operating season. "We've been staying at Beachcomber for years. Packed with activities, a clean beach, choice of two pools and two laundromats," states Mark F., emphasizing the consistent quality maintained over multiple visits.
Security features: Gated access provides peace of mind at several campgrounds. "It's a gated resort which makes it incredibly safe and something that gives us piece of mind while out exploring," one camper notes about Beachcomber Camping Resort, highlighting this benefit for families.
Bike-friendly environment: Sun Retreats Seashore Campsites & RV Resort accommodates cyclists with paved roads. "Rode our bikes and went to local winery. Cleanest bathrooms," shares Douglas G., noting the combination of on-site cycling and nearby attractions.
What you should know
Seasonal timing impacts: Cape Henlopen State Park Campground offers different experiences depending on when you visit. "We visited off season (early April) and absolutely loved it. The location was great and the beaches are quiet. I hear it gets packed and I see that it's hard to book if you don't book early," advises Chris G.
Cell service limitations: Belleplain State Forest has minimal connectivity. "Virtually NO cell service with AT&T, TMobile or Verizon. AT&T was the better of the 3," warns Anne H., noting important communication limitations that require advance planning.
Golf cart traffic: Multiple campgrounds permit golf carts, which can impact the camping experience. "Every time our kids leave to bike around and play we worry about their safety. If beachcomber could get that under control I'd rate them 5star," explains Mark F., highlighting a common safety concern at larger resorts.
Weekend crowds: Expect higher occupancy rates during summer weekends. "To be expected, this place was packed on a nice October weekend. Boy Scouts and families...Overall quiet considering the amount of people," reports Amanda M. about Belleplain State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for children: Ocean View Resort Campground offers multiple water attractions. "This place had a lot to do with kids! Lake, pool, ice cream, arcade, mini golf, mining station, activities," shares Tiffany P., detailing the variety of entertainment options available.
Rental options: Several resorts offer equipment rentals to minimize packing. "You can rent golf carats which the kids loved and we used the whole weekend since it was so cheap & campground is huge," explains Kirsten J. about Beachcomber Camping Resort.
Age-appropriate activities: Shellbay Campgrounds provides amenities for different age groups. "Looking for a trip to the Jersey shore (near Stone Harbor, Avalon, Wildwood, Cape May, & more) - look no further than Shellbay Camping Resort," recommends Suzi S., highlighting the convenience of shore access.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds feature security measures that benefit families. "The entry gate was tight with no room to park while registering," notes Matt S. about Sun Outdoors Cape May, indicating the controlled access points that help monitor visitor entry.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites carefully at Sun Retreats Seashore based on your privacy needs. "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," shares Cynthia D., highlighting the variation in site layouts.
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "None of the sites are level," Adam and Suzanne B. report about Cape Henlopen State Park Campground, suggesting that leveling blocks are essential equipment.
Hookup quality: Evaluate water and electric connections before setting up. "It has some of the best water and electric hookups I've seen," Sarah S. notes about Cape Henlopen, indicating reliable utility connections for comfortable camping.
Dump station access: Plan for potential wait times during peak checkout periods. "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," warns Anne H. about Belleplain State Forest.
