The spots here are huge and reserved for same day reservations. We didn’t understand the system and went to the park which overall has very limited cell service. To compensate, the campgrounds have land lines in them, but in our case it took a while to sort everything. There are two loops and a tent only section(40-45), which was full by the time we got there after midday. In any case the spaces across the board seemed very spacious, with level platforms. We were two cars traveling together and these two spots in particular (on upper loop) gave us domain over a huge wooded area, close to toilets and potable water. Quick drive down to the lake which was wonderful and had a playground, picnic tables and great showers that served the lake and campground. $20 to get into the park on top of the camping.

This is a know before you go spot. Yes you must lug your gear in, but when I went there were large carts for that purpose. Bathrooms are serviceable overall (no showers as others have noted), and the place is intermittently staffed; bring everything you need. Try for a spot with the cover, it was hot when we were there and it helped. We were warned of rampant ticks but had no issues. If it’s summer - beware of weekends. This is a large peninsula and there are several public beaches, a light house, old army barracks and military facilities to explore, etc. - and there is traffic to contend with. Arriving midweek is a big plus to avoid it.

Once you are there, you can walk right across the street to a bayside inlet and sandy shore that is not highly trafficked because no one can park there except those using the campground. There are flat biking trails up and down the Hook and all the way thru neighboring town of Sea Bright if you are so inclined, access to the oceanside beaches with a short drive or a longer walk (we didn’t). Having a camp pass does NOT cover you for beach parking, so check when you come in or go back to the ranger station if you want to park in the beach lots.

I tent camped here with my two kids (age 6 and 4) in 2018. I think they have gotten a bit fancier since, with more glamping options (there were some gorgeous ones then too!) but tent camping there was amazing. We were deep in on a loop against the marsh, we had tree cover and it felt quiet and secluded, even with neighbors and booking relatively late so not getting first choice. Out of the craziness of town and SO close to a great locals beach. Wonderful store and facilities, beautiful pool with very natural landscaping, playground and even some simple fun activities for the kids. The very best.