Tent camping near Woodbridge, New Jersey requires traveling 25-40 miles from town, as the immediate area lacks wilderness camping options. The region sits at low elevation (10-100 feet above sea level) with a humid subtropical climate that brings hot summers and mild winters. Campers should prepare for high humidity during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F and evening thunderstorms are common.
What to do
Beach exploration at Sandy Hook: The 7-mile stretch of beaches at Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area offers swimming, fishing, and shoreline hiking. "Ocean is close with lifeguards. Good fishing and pleasant people. Boat from New York City," notes camper Stanley S. The park contains historic military buildings and multiuse trails.
Lavender field visits: Pleasant Valley Lavender provides unique camping experiences with tent sites adjacent to fragrant lavender fields. "So pleasant to sleep near the blooming fields. Campsite is tucked in the woods. Tent camping in peace and quiet with easy access to major roads and highways to explore central NJ," reports Ellen K.
Historic sites and river activities: Washington Crossing State Park offers camping combined with Revolutionary War history. "Washington Crossing is beautiful and historic. We often bike along the canal there. There are farms and animals to see, hikes along the Delaware river, Bowman's tower with a great view of the surrounding area and much more," says Olivia M.
What campers like
Accessible NYC skyline views: Staten Island — Gateway National Recreation Area provides urban camping with metropolitan views. "You have a clear view of the Narrow bridge and at night the city lights light up your surroundings like a night light. There is abandoned buildings here and you can do urban exploring," writes Phillip L.
Private woodland settings: Jenny Jump State Forest offers secluded camping sites surrounded by nature. "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground. The campgrounds and bathrooms were clean and well kept," notes Fransheska A. Sites vary in terrain and layout.
Swimming and water activities: Round Valley State Park Campground features a large reservoir with clear water. "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," reports James R. Sites require hiking or boating to access.
What you should know
Military base camping option: NWS Earle RV Park offers camping for military personnel and veterans near Woodbridge. "Small campground with 8 spaces in the main area and 7 in an adjacent area. All spaces are level concrete with full hookups and attached concrete patio. Laundry facilities are free for use and in like new condition," explains Jeffrey.
Early morning noise: Some private campgrounds have active early risers. At Tip Tam Camping Resort, camper Bill V. notes: "The only downside I saw was people here are up way too early. 7am place was already loud. 7:45am a propane truck pulled in to fill the propane and was extremely loud. 8am people with leaf blowers and chopping wood. Don't expect to sleep past 7:30am."
Limited availability: Most tent camping sites near Woodbridge require advance reservations, especially during summer months. Sandy Hook sites often fill months ahead during peak season, while walk-in sites at Pleasant Valley Lavender have limited capacity.
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused campgrounds: Tip Tam Camping Resort offers numerous family amenities close to Woodbridge. "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," shares Jenn M. The campground includes swimming pools and organized activities.
Rustic cabins option: For families wanting a middle ground between tenting and hotels, cabins are available at some parks. "Sebago cabins the way to get away and relax enjoy the lake. You can go hiking they also have movie nights they do big bon fire on Saturday very kid friendly. Ranger Joe is great with the kids and they have fire wood for purchase on site," reports Hashim C.
Pack-in considerations: Sandy Hook requires transporting gear from parking to campsites. Ranger Craig M. explains: "Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site. No vehicles allowed at the campsite. Some of the sites do have a wooden pavilion covering the picnic table. Sites also have metal storage units for locking up foodstuffs to protect them from being pilfered by the numerous and bold raccoons."
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup options: Most tent camping areas near Woodbridge don't accommodate RVs or have limited hookups. When available, as at Sandy Hook — Gateway National Recreation Area, the sites typically lack sewer connections and have size restrictions.
Military facilities advantage: NWS Earle RV Park provides full-hookup concrete pads for eligible military personnel. Jeffrey notes it's "cheap, clean & quiet" and "only an hour from Manhattan & 20 more minutes from the shore," making it convenient for exploring the region while maintaining a secure home base.
Urban proximity value: RV campers report appreciating the ability to stay near urban areas while having natural surroundings. At Staten Island Gateway, camper Jill R. explains: "When it comes to getting to the usual American camping experience, this is not the place for you, however when it comes to sleeping near the city on a budget, this place will most likely work."
