Best Beach Camping in New Jersey 2026
Campgrounds near the beach and beachfront camping at the Jersey Shore. Wake up to ocean breezes and fall asleep to crashing waves.
14
Campgrounds
4
Regions
$20+
Per Night
Beach Camping at the Jersey Shore
Camping near the beach combines the best of outdoor adventure with the Jersey Shore experience. Wake up to ocean breezes, spend your days at the beach, and fall asleep under the stars. Its an affordable and memorable way to experience the shore.
Island Beach State Park offers the closest camping to the ocean.Wake up steps from pristine barrier island beaches. For more amenities, Cape May County has excellent private campgrounds near Ocean City, Wildwood, and Cape May with pools, activities, and easy beach access.
Summer weekends fill up fast—book by March for peak season dates. Most campgrounds offer tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. Bring beach gear, a good cooler, and be prepared for evening sea breezes even in summer.
Monmouth County
Northern shore camping options
Allaire State Park
From $20/nightState park camping with historic village, 15-20 minutes from Belmar and Manasquan beaches.
Turkey Swamp Park
From $25/nightCounty park camping about 30 minutes from the beach. Budget-friendly option with good facilities.
Ocean County
Closest beach camping in NJ
Island Beach State Park
From $27/nightTop PickThe closest camping to the ocean in NJ. Barrier island camping just steps from pristine beaches.
Surf & Stream Campground
From $55/nightFamily campground with pool and activities. Easy access to Seaside Heights beaches.
Cedar Creek Campground
From $45/nightWaterfront camping on Barnegat Bay with kayak access. Short drive to LBI and Island Beach.
Tip Tam Camping Resort
From $60/nightResort-style camping with Six Flags nearby. About 30 minutes from Point Pleasant beaches.
Atlantic County
Camping near Atlantic City
Shady Pines Camping Resort
From $55/nightFull-service camping resort about 15 minutes from Atlantic City beaches. Pool and activities.
Atlantic City North Family Campground
From $45/nightConvenient camping close to Atlantic City with pool and basic amenities.
Cape May County
Best beach town camping
Frontier Campground
From $65/nightTop PickFamily campground just minutes from Ocean City beaches and boardwalk. Pool, mini golf, and activities.
Seashore Campsites
From $60/nightTop PickClose to Cape May beaches with full amenities. Great base for exploring the Victorian town.
Big Timber Lake Camping Resort
From $70/nightLarge camping resort with lake, water park, and activities. Central to all Cape May County beaches.
Holly Shores Camping Resort
From $65/nightFamily resort with pool and proximity to Cape May beaches. Popular with families.
North Wildwood Beach Campground
From $50/nightWalking distance to free Wildwood beaches and boardwalk. Budget-friendly option.
Beachcomber Camping Resort
From $60/nightCape May
Well-maintained camping resort with good beach access and family amenities.
Beach Camping Tips
⛺Book Early
Beach campgrounds fill up months in advance for summer weekends. Reserve by March for peak season dates.
⛺Bring Beach Gear
Pack beach chairs, umbrellas, and coolers. Most campgrounds have beach cart storage for daily trips.
⛺Prepare for Sand
An outdoor mat and rinse station help keep sand out of your tent or RV. Bring extra towels.
⛺Check Shuttle Services
Some campgrounds offer shuttles to nearby beaches and boardwalks. Ask when booking.
Beach Camping Essentials
Everything you need for a comfortable beach camping trip at the Jersey Shore.
Beach Camping Tent
Durable tent with sand stakes. Look for good ventilation.
Sleeping Bag (Summer)
40-50°F rating ideal for NJ summer camping.
Portable Camp Stove
Compact propane stove for campsite cooking.
Camping Cooler
High-performance cooler for multi-day trips.
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FAQ
Can you camp directly on the beach in NJ?
Beach camping is not allowed on NJ beaches. However, many campgrounds are within walking distance or a short drive from beaches. Island Beach State Park is the closest you can get.
Which NJ campgrounds are closest to the beach?
Island Beach State Park offers the closest camping to the ocean in NJ. Frontier Campground near Ocean City and Seashore Campsites near Cape May are within minutes of beaches.
Do I need reservations for beach camping?
Yes, especially for summer weekends. State park camping fills months in advance. Private campgrounds are busy Memorial Day through Labor Day. Book early for best sites.
What types of camping are available?
Options include tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping tents. Many campgrounds offer all types. State parks focus on tent/RV while private parks have more amenities.
Are there any campgrounds on Long Beach Island?
There are no campgrounds directly on LBI. The closest options are on the mainland in Manahawkin or Tuckerton, a short drive across the causeway.
What should I bring for beach camping?
Beyond standard camping gear, bring sand stakes for tents, shade structures, coolers for beach days, and rinse-off supplies. Evening sea breezes can be cool even in summer.
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