Where To Camp Along The Southern Shore Of New Jersey?

You’ll find camping options along New Jersey’s southern shore that won’t break your budget, from primitive wilderness sites to family-friendly beachfront campgrounds. Whether you’re seeking backcountry solitude in the Pine Barrens or convenient RV hookups near Cape May, there’s something for every camping style and wallet size. The key is knowing which locations offer the best value for your specific needs and when to book your spot before the prime sites get snatched up.

Key Points

• Pine Barrens offers primitive wilderness camping at Bass River and Wharton State Forests for $20 per night with basic amenities.
• Island Beach State Park provides oceanfront camping sites for $20-30 nightly with immediate beach access and essential facilities.
• Cape Henlopen State Park features 159 campsites with ocean and bay views, available April through October starting around $35.
• Private RV resorts near Ocean City and Cape May offer full hookups and amenities for $75-150 per night during peak season.
• Group camping areas at Belleplain and Bass River State Forests accommodate large gatherings with communal facilities and shared amenities.

Pine Barrens Wilderness Camping Adventures

Stretching across over one million acres of southern New Jersey, the Pine Barrens offers some of the most affordable wilderness camping you’ll find along the East Coast. You’ll discover primitive campsites for as little as $20 per night at places like Bass River State Forest and Wharton State Forest.

Pack your gear and head to Batsto Village area for easy access to hiking trails and cedar water streams. You can’t beat the value – most sites include fire rings, picnic tables, and restroom facilities. Don’t expect hookups or showers at these rustic spots.

Reserve your campsite online during peak summer months. Bring plenty of water, bug spray, and firewood since you’re deep in wilderness territory. Cell service is spotty, so download maps beforehand. When scouting your ideal camping spot, look for level ground that’s elevated enough to avoid water pooling during unexpected rain.

Barrier Island Campgrounds and Beach Access

While the Pine Barrens offers excellent inland wilderness camping, New Jersey’s barrier islands provide a completely different coastal camping experience just minutes from pristine Atlantic beaches. You’ll find several budget-friendly campgrounds on these narrow strips of land that separate the mainland from the ocean.

New Jersey’s barrier islands deliver an affordable coastal camping adventure with oceanfront sites just steps from pristine Atlantic beaches.

Belleplain State Forest’s campground puts you within easy reach of Cape Henlopen beaches, while Wharton State Forest offers affordable sites near Batsto Village.

For true barrier island camping, head to Island Beach State Park, where you can pitch your tent steps from the surf.

Most campgrounds charge $20-35 per night and provide restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.

You can’t beat waking up to ocean breezes and having immediate beach access without paying resort prices. When packing for your coastal camping adventure, consider investing in one of the most unique travel backpacks designed specifically for beach and outdoor activities.

State Park Camping Along the Atlantic Coast

Along New Jersey’s 130-mile coastline, you’ll discover state parks that offer some of the most affordable oceanfront camping on the East Coast. Island Beach State Park stands out as your best bet for beach camping, featuring 22 sites just steps from pristine Atlantic shores. You’ll pay around $20-30 per night compared to $50+ at private campgrounds.

Cape Henlopen State Park, though technically in Delaware, sits minutes from Jersey’s southern tip and offers 159 sites with beach access.

Belleplain State Forest provides a budget-friendly inland alternative with lake swimming and hiking trails.

Book early—these popular spots fill quickly during summer months. Most parks offer restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.

You’ll need to bring your own firewood, as gathering isn’t permitted in most locations. Planning ahead with a detailed camping checklist ensures you’ll have everything needed for a memorable family adventure by the shore.

Private RV Resorts Near Ocean City and Cape May

When state park campgrounds fill up or you’re craving more amenities, private RV resorts around Ocean City and Cape May deliver full hookups, pools, and family activities—though you’ll pay premium prices for oceanfront locations.

You’ll find several well-established resorts offering luxury amenities like WiFi, cable TV, and recreational facilities. Most charge $75-150 per night during peak summer season, with shoulder season rates dropping remarkably. Book early since prime oceanfront spots fill months ahead.

Premium oceanfront RV resorts book months in advance, with summer rates reaching $150 nightly for luxury amenities and prime beach locations.

Popular amenities at private resorts include:

• Swimming pools, hot tubs, and fitness centers
• Organized activities like bingo nights and live entertainment
• On-site convenience stores and laundry facilities
• Direct beach access or shuttle services to nearby beaches

Consider staying slightly inland to save money while still enjoying resort amenities and easy beach access. For those planning winter RV camping, these resorts offer heated facilities and winterized amenities that make cold-weather stays much more comfortable.

Backcountry Camping in Wharton State Forest

For a completely different camping experience away from crowded resorts and beach towns, Wharton State Forest offers primitive backcountry camping in New Jersey’s vast Pine Barrens wilderness. You’ll need to hike or canoe to reach designated camping areas, making this option perfect if you’re seeking solitude and adventure on a tight budget.

Camping costs just $2 per person per night, but you must obtain permits in advance from the forest office. Sites lack amenities—no water, restrooms, or electric hookups. Pack everything you need, including plenty of water and a portable camping toilet.

The forest’s sandy soil drains well, and you’ll camp among towering pines beside pristine streams. Popular backcountry spots include Mullica River and Batsto River corridors, accessible via established canoe routes. Since weather conditions can change quickly in this wilderness setting, be prepared with proper gear and know how to handle sudden storms or temperature drops.

Family-Friendly Campgrounds With Full Amenities

If you’re traveling with kids and prefer comfortable amenities over wilderness adventures, several established campgrounds near New Jersey’s southern shore offer the perfect blend of outdoor fun and modern conveniences.

These family-oriented sites typically feature full hookups, clean restrooms, hot showers, and recreational facilities that’ll keep everyone entertained. You’ll find pools, playgrounds, and organized activities without breaking the bank.

Popular options include:

• Belleplain State Forest – Affordable rates with modern bathhouses and nearby hiking trails
• Cape Henlopen State Park – Beach access, nature programs, and well-maintained facilities
• Sea Pirate Campground – Private resort with pools, mini-golf, and planned activities
• Holly Shores Camping Resort – Lake swimming, fishing, and spacious RV sites with full hookups

Most charge $30-60 nightly, offering excellent value for families seeking comfort and convenience. During summer months when mosquito activity peaks near water sources, consider packing mosquito nets for additional protection during evening outdoor activities.

Waterfront Camping Along Delaware Bay

While full-service campgrounds offer comfort and activities, Delaware Bay‘s waterfront sites provide a completely different camping experience focused on peaceful bayside settings and natural beauty. You’ll find fewer crowds and lower costs at these rustic locations.

Sunset Beach Campground in Cape Henlopen Point offers affordable waterfront sites where you can watch spectacular sunsets over the bay. The campground provides basic amenities like restrooms and showers without breaking your budget.

Affordable waterfront camping with stunning bay sunsets, basic amenities, and budget-friendly rates at this peaceful Delaware destination.

Bowers Beach area features several primitive camping spots perfect for tent camping. You’ll pay markedly less than resort-style campgrounds while enjoying direct bay access for fishing, kayaking, and crabbing.

Most waterfront sites don’t include hookups, so you’ll need to prepare accordingly. Bring extra water, portable power sources, and camp stoves. The trade-off is unbeatable bay views and tranquil surroundings.

When evaluating these waterfront locations, consider the proximity to water as both an advantage for activities and a potential concern for safety and site drainage during storms.

Primitive Camping Sites in Bass River State Forest

Though you’ll leave behind waterfront views, Bass River State Forest delivers an authentic wilderness camping experience that costs considerably less than developed campgrounds. You’ll find primitive sites scattered throughout 29,000 acres of Pine Barrens wilderness, where you can pitch your tent among towering pines and ancient cedars for just $20 per night.

These backcountry sites offer genuine solitude but require self-sufficiency. You’ll need to carry water, pack out all trash, and bring your own firewood. The forest’s sandy trails lead to hidden streams and cranberry bogs, perfect for quiet exploration.

For those seeking more adventurous terrain after experiencing New Jersey’s forests, the US offers exceptional glacier climbing trails that provide entirely different wilderness challenges.

Essential considerations for primitive camping here:

• Reserve sites advance through the state park system
• Bring insect repellent for summer mosquitoes and ticks
• Pack a headlamp for orienteering dark forest paths
• Check fire restrictions before bringing camping stoves

Seasonal Campgrounds on Cape Henlopen Peninsula

Where else can you wake up to both sunrise ocean views and sunset bay panoramas without breaking your camping budget? Cape Henlopen’s seasonal campgrounds deliver exactly that from April through October.

You’ll find well-maintained sites with electric hookups starting around $35 nightly, considerably cheaper than nearby hotels charging $200+ during peak season.

The peninsula’s three main campgrounds offer different experiences. Seaside sites put you steps from Atlantic beaches, while bayside spots provide calmer waters perfect for kayaking. Interior sites cost less but still grant easy beach access via short walking trails.

Book early—summer weekends fill up by February. Shoulder seasons offer the best deals and fewer crowds.

You’ll save money on activities too, since hiking trails, fishing spots, and swimming areas don’t charge admission fees. For adventure seekers, the nearby coastal cliffs provide excellent opportunities for rock climbing with stunning ocean views.

Group Camping Areas for Large Gatherings

Large groups heading to New Jersey’s southern shore need specialized camping areas that can accommodate multiple families or organizations without the typical site restrictions. You’ll find several parks offer dedicated group camping facilities designed for reunions, scout troops, and corporate retreats.

Belleplain State Forest provides excellent group sites with communal fire rings and picnic areas. Their sites handle 25-100 people comfortably.

Bass River State Forest offers similar accommodations at budget-friendly rates, perfect for youth groups.

Key features to expect at group camping areas:

• Shared restroom facilities and potable water access
• Large parking areas for multiple vehicles
• Communal cooking and dining spaces
• Advance reservations required (often 6+ months ahead)

Book early since these sites fill quickly during summer months. Most locations offer discounted rates for non-profit organizations. When planning your group camping experience, consider investing in quality camping shelters that can withstand the unpredictable coastal weather conditions.

Sum Up

You’ll find your perfect slice of paradise along New Jersey’s southern shore, whether you’re pinching pennies at primitive sites or splurging on oceanfront resorts. Don’t drag your feet on reservations—these gems disappear faster than sand through your fingers during peak season. From the Pine Barrens’ quiet embrace to the Atlantic’s endless symphony, you’ve got options that won’t break the bank. Pack smart, book early, and let the coast work its magic on your wallet and soul.