Camping near Cape May Point, New Jersey offers options across state lines with access to both ocean and bay waters. The area sits at a relatively flat elevation of under 10 feet above sea level, making most campsites level and easy to set up. Summer humidity combines with coastal breezes to create conditions where moisture management becomes important for tent campers, with temperatures averaging 85°F during peak season.
What to do
Visit historical sites: Delaware Seashore State Park Campground includes World War II observation towers that provide historical context during your stay. "There is direct access to the beach under the bridge where there are restaurants, concessions, and other activities at the Big Chill Beach Club. There is also a pedestrian walkway on the bridge which was kind of cool," notes Lee D.
Kayak in calm waters: The inland waterways near Ocean View Resort Campground provide protected paddling areas suitable for beginners and families. "They have a Great swimming Lake with a huge sandy beach," explains Harry L., making it perfect for water activities beyond just swimming.
Explore wildlife areas: Wooded areas at Belleplain State Forest offer hiking through pine forests just 25 miles from Cape May Point. "There are miles upon miles of walking and biking trails. There are nice play facilities for kids, loads of water and beach access," according to one visitor who appreciated the natural surroundings.
Take a ferry adventure: When camping near Cape May Point, consider a day trip via ferry to expand your options. "Taking the Cape May-Lewes Ferry adds a fun element to your trip if you're heading to Delaware," with crossings lasting approximately 85 minutes each way and vehicles requiring advance reservations during summer months.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Sun Retreats Seashore Campsites & RV Resort offers sites with good tree coverage for natural shade. "Tent site was fantastic, level, trees are well trimmed, but still with good coverage, sites are a nice size," reports M J., who found the balance of maintenance and nature appealing.
Beach proximity: Many campers appreciate how Sun Outdoors Cape May puts them close to coastal activities. "Close to all the good stuff... a short 5 minute drive from Cape May. Which is also a big reason we've returned. Sunset Beach, The Open Air Mall, and the charm of victorian Cape May are all great reasons to visit," shares Dave R.
Clean facilities: Bathhouse cleanliness ranks high on camper priorities in this region. "The newly built bathhouses are great! They're always clean and I've yet to not get a hot shower, even though they get used a lot," reports Amanda R. about Cape Henlopen State Park Campground, though noting you should expect quarters for showers at many facilities.
Year-round options: Unlike the description's focus on summer camping, some parks offer off-season opportunities. "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," explains Chris G. about Cape Henlopen State Park.
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Campgrounds near Cape May Point range from spacious to cramped. "Sites are very wooded, close to each other," reports Kirsten J. about Ocean View Resort Campground, while others note similar tight quarters at various facilities.
Weekend crowds change the experience: Midweek stays often provide a different atmosphere than 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.
Book well in advance: Most campgrounds in this region fill quickly, especially for summer weekends. "I hear it gets packed and I see that it's hard to book if you don't book early. Our experience was awesome!" reinforces Chris G. about the popularity of coastal camping options.
Cell service is limited: Despite the developed nature of South Jersey, many campgrounds have connectivity challenges. "Virtually NO cell service with AT&T, TMobile or Verizon. AT&T was the better of the 3," warns Anne H., so plan accordingly if you need to stay connected.
Tips for camping with families
Look for water activities beyond the ocean: Beachcomber Camping Resort offers multiple water options suitable for different ages. "Lake was fun, sites were big, playground was great! You can rent golf carts which the kids loved and we used the whole weekend since it was so cheap & campground is huge," explains Kirsten J.
Consider seasonal timing: Family experiences differ dramatically based on when you visit. "The kids were super happy about all the activities this campground has to offer," notes Stephanie G., though most organized activities run primarily during summer season and weekends.
Seek campgrounds with multiple play options: The best family experiences combine different activity types. "From a huge pool and unbelievable splash pad to a great swimming pond with a beach!" Ray L. enthuses about the variety that keeps children engaged throughout your stay.
Check bathroom facilities before booking: For families with young children, bathroom proximity and cleanliness matter. "Bathhouses were clean and we can walk to the beach," notes Dawn T., which becomes especially important when camping with children who need frequent bathroom breaks.
Tips from RVers
Watch for site size discrepancies: Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay and other parks sometimes overstate site dimensions. "We were disappointed at how tight a fit it would be for our 36' motorhome. After some strategizing, I backed in on a diagonal or there'd be no way to open our slides," warns Matt S., who recommends confirming actual dimensions before arrival.
Consider dump station timing: Holiday weekends create challenges at campgrounds with limited facilities. "It was very unlevel and not easy to fully dump our tanks. It was also Memorial Day weekend and the line at checkout caused us to wait 2 hours to dump!!" reports Anne H., suggesting early departure to avoid delays.
Site leveling varies by location: RVers note significant differences in site preparation across campgrounds. "The sites are all a good size and even though the campsite is usually always packed, everyone is super friendly and respectful of each other," notes Amanda R., mentioning that Cape Henlopen sites typically require minimal leveling.
Check for seasonal restrictions: Some campgrounds limit RV access during shoulder seasons. Operating dates vary significantly, with some parks closing entirely from November through March while others maintain limited facilities year-round with reduced services.
