Best Camping & Campgrounds
RV parks, tent camping, and glamping near the beach for outdoor enthusiasts
Why Camp at the Shore?
Camping near the Jersey Shore offers an affordable, nature-focused beach vacation. Wake up to bird songs, spend days at the beach, and return to campfire evenings under the stars. From primitive tent sites at Island Beach State Park to full-hookup RV resorts with pools, there's an option for every outdoor enthusiast.
Closest camping to Cape May and Wildwood beaches
Beachcomber Camping Resort
Moderate ($$)Full-service camping resort with pool, activities, and shuttle to Cape May beaches.
Seashore Campsites
Moderate ($$)Family campground with wooded sites, pool, and easy access to Cape May attractions.
Ocean View Resort
Moderate ($$)Large camping resort close to Wildwood beaches with pools, fishing lake, and entertainment.
State park camping and family campgrounds
Island Beach State Park
Budget ($)Primitive camping on one of NJ's last undeveloped barrier beaches with pristine dunes and wildlife.
Surf & Stream Campground
Moderate ($$)Family campground with pool and recreation near Seaside beaches.
Camp near Atlantic City beaches and casinos
Atlantic City North KOA
Moderate ($$)Full-service KOA with cabins, RV sites, and easy access to Atlantic City beaches and casinos.
Shady Pines Campground
Budget ($)Wooded campground with peaceful setting and short drive to Atlantic City beaches.
Nature camping with northern shore access
Allaire State Park
Budget ($)Historic state park with camping, hiking, and 30-minute drive to Monmouth beaches.
Turkey Swamp Park
Budget ($)County park campground with lake, trails, and easy access to northern shore beaches.
Shore Camping Tips
Reserve State Parks Early
NJ state park reservations open 11 months ahead. Book popular sites like Island Beach immediately.
Check Beach Distance
Most campgrounds are 10-30 minutes from the beach. Some offer shuttles; others require driving.
Bring Bug Spray
Shore area campgrounds can have mosquitoes, especially near marshes. Come prepared.
Consider Shoulder Season
May and September offer great weather, fewer bugs, and easier reservations at lower prices.
Essential Camping Gear
Quality gear for your shore camping adventure
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 on the beach in New Jersey?
Beach camping is not allowed on most Jersey Shore beaches, but several campgrounds are within walking or biking distance of the ocean. Island Beach State Park allows camping in designated areas.
How much does camping cost at the Jersey Shore?
Tent sites run $40-70/night, RV sites with hookups $60-120/night, and cabins/glamping $100-200/night. State parks are most affordable; private resorts with amenities cost more.
When should I book a campsite for summer?
Book state park sites 6+ months ahead when reservations open. Private campgrounds fill up 2-3 months in advance for peak summer weekends.
What campgrounds are closest to the beach?
Frontier Campground in Ocean View is 10 minutes from Wildwood beaches. Beachcomber Camping Resort in Cape May offers beach shuttle service. Island Beach State Park is directly on the water.
Are there glamping options at the Jersey Shore?
Yes, several campgrounds offer glamping tents, yurts, and cabins with beds and electricity. These provide outdoor experience without full tent camping.
Can I bring my RV to Jersey Shore campgrounds?
Most campgrounds accommodate RVs with full hookups (water, electric, sewer). Check maximum RV length limits before booking—some sites have restrictions.