Camping in Ocean City, NJ, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

United States
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New Jersey
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Ocean City

95% (507 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Ocean City

Dog-friendly getaways

Top camping destinations

French Creek State Park

Assateague Island National Seashore

Hickory Run State Park

1283 campgrounds

Under $50

96%

(13)

Spacious Skies Country Oaks Campground

139 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Dorothy, NJ

Spacious Skies Country Oaks rests within the countryside of the Pine Barrens region of southern New Jersey, just an hour from Philadelphia and Wilmington, DE, and only 30 miles from the Atlantic City boardwalk. If you are looking for southern New Jersey’s best campsites you have found them! Find peace at our campground in New Jersey which is due south of the Wharton State Forest and surrounded by other wildlife management areas that dot the protected ecoregion. We offer back-in and pull-through RV sites that can accommodate all sized RVs and trailers! Each RV site includes a picnic table, fire ring, 30 or 50-amp electrical service, and sewer. We have deluxe patio sites and some rustic cabins too! Friendly people are waiting by the phone to tell you about our amazing activities, and an atmosphere that all campers will take to heart. Delightfully, Country Oaks campground happens to be surrounded by a number of designated wildlife management areas (WMAs)–Tuckahoe, Maple Lake, and Menantico Ponds to name a few! These areas are popular for hiking/walking, fishing, kayaking, and birding opportunities abound! Our nation’s bird, the bald eagle, is no stranger to this region, along with lots of other species for your bird-watching journal. The Warren E. Fox Nature Center is the headquarters for environmental education within the Atlantic County park system, with fun displays and trials for the whole family. Inland nature aside, Atlantic City and Ocean City beaches and boardwalks are 30-40 minutes away!

100%

(3)

Felidae Farm

11 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Leipsic, DE

Secluded country living on a beautiful 35 acre farm minutes from the town of Smyrna & Dover area. Private and separate entrance area for that perfect getaway! Across from Bombay Hook Wildlife Refuge where there is plenty of sightseeing, hiking, or birdwatching...the sounds of nature when you stay at this unique place. Observe Barn & Tree Swallows, Eastern Bluebirds, and Purple Martins and more! Close to Big Oak park & literally down the road from Woodland Beach. Dont be surprised if you are greeted by a few of the rescue kitties that reside on the farm. Quiet, peaceful, safe & relaxing farm environment. Absolutely stunning view to wake up to!

Open Field for Dry Camping

2 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Ocean View, NJ

Learn more about this land: A cleared patch of land for future cattle raising, situated on the property of a historic Seaville home. The field is perfect for tent camping, camper vans, campers, or even sleeping under the stars. This field is available for dry camping, meaning there is no water or sewage hookup and everything is pack in, pack out. There is a water hose within walking distance available to fill buckets or bottles as needed. A fire pit is also available for use. The property also has friendly pigs and goats that love attention. Short distance from back bays, ocean, trails, beaches and an incredible amount of tourist attractions the Cape May County area has to offer!

79%

(12)

Summer Jade Stables

7 sites · Lodging, RVs18 acres · Waterford Works, NJ

Learn more about this land:We are a horse farm with both indoor and outdoor arena. We often hold ranch sorting events and training. There are cows and goats on site as well. We also provide RVs for rent or rooms in the house.The entire farm is flat with plenty parking space. The entrance may look like a narrow long driveway, the parking lot behind building is huge, even for big truck.

100%

(9)

That Dome Home RV Site

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Manahawkin, NJ

Want to be close to Long Beach Island (LBI) without the crowds? You've found the place! Our lot is 1.22 acres only several miles away from LBI, New Jersey. The owner-occupied residence is tucked away from the road with only one neighbor in sight. We live in a 1987 geodesic dome home on the property. Additionally, our self-converted 2002 International Blue Bird school bus is parked here. There is plenty of room for you to park in the circle driveway or to the left of the dome. Enjoy our large, fenced backyard with plenty of room for activities. We have yard games available (Yard Yahtzee, Spikeball, Molkky, lawn darts, and more) and you're welcome to bring them to the beach. Crab traps, fishing poles, and a cooler are available too. Feel free to start a campfire in the designated area or relax in the two hammocks. We promise you'll never be bored here! LBI beaches, the Manahawkin Lake, restaurants, bars, shopping, and more are all minutes away. Proximity via car: -5 minutes to LBI -3 minutes to Manahawkin Lake -3 minutes to The Old Causeway and Mud City (restaurants) -4 minutes to ManaFirkin Brewing Co. -40 minutes to Atlantic City -70 minutes to Philadelphia

12 top campgrounds near Ocean City

96%

(13)

Spacious Skies Country Oaks Campground

139 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Dorothy, NJ

Spacious Skies Country Oaks rests within the countryside of the Pine Barrens region of southern New Jersey, just an hour from Philadelphia and Wilmington, DE, and only 30 miles from the Atlantic City boardwalk. If you are looking for southern New Jersey’s best campsites you have found them! Find peace at our campground in New Jersey which is due south of the Wharton State Forest and surrounded by other wildlife management areas that dot the protected ecoregion. We offer back-in and pull-through RV sites that can accommodate all sized RVs and trailers! Each RV site includes a picnic table, fire ring, 30 or 50-amp electrical service, and sewer. We have deluxe patio sites and some rustic cabins too! Friendly people are waiting by the phone to tell you about our amazing activities, and an atmosphere that all campers will take to heart. Delightfully, Country Oaks campground happens to be surrounded by a number of designated wildlife management areas (WMAs)–Tuckahoe, Maple Lake, and Menantico Ponds to name a few! These areas are popular for hiking/walking, fishing, kayaking, and birding opportunities abound! Our nation’s bird, the bald eagle, is no stranger to this region, along with lots of other species for your bird-watching journal. The Warren E. Fox Nature Center is the headquarters for environmental education within the Atlantic County park system, with fun displays and trials for the whole family. Inland nature aside, Atlantic City and Ocean City beaches and boardwalks are 30-40 minutes away!

Pine Creek

4 sites · TentsMedford, NJ

Old Cranbury farm in the middle of West Jersey. Pitch your tent in our hay field or set up a spot in the woods. Fish off our dock. Dark skies for viewing the stars.

Open Field for Dry Camping

2 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Ocean View, NJ

Learn more about this land: A cleared patch of land for future cattle raising, situated on the property of a historic Seaville home. The field is perfect for tent camping, camper vans, campers, or even sleeping under the stars. This field is available for dry camping, meaning there is no water or sewage hookup and everything is pack in, pack out. There is a water hose within walking distance available to fill buckets or bottles as needed. A fire pit is also available for use. The property also has friendly pigs and goats that love attention. Short distance from back bays, ocean, trails, beaches and an incredible amount of tourist attractions the Cape May County area has to offer!

Felidae Farm

11 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Leipsic, DE

Secluded country living on a beautiful 35 acre farm minutes from the town of Smyrna & Dover area. Private and separate entrance area for that perfect getaway! Across from Bombay Hook Wildlife Refuge where there is plenty of sightseeing, hiking, or birdwatching...the sounds of nature when you stay at this unique place. Observe Barn & Tree Swallows, Eastern Bluebirds, and Purple Martins and more! Close to Big Oak park & literally down the road from Woodland Beach. Dont be surprised if you are greeted by a few of the rescue kitties that reside on the farm. Quiet, peaceful, safe & relaxing farm environment. Absolutely stunning view to wake up to!

100%

(116)

Countryside Horse Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents55 acres · Salem, NJ

Our horse farm is located in one of the most rural areas of Southern New Jersey. This land was once occupied by The Lanape Tribe. The adjacent creek was named after Chief Alloway. Artifacts of Native Americans have been found alongside this brackish water creek. This farm was for many years a dairy farm which was passed on for 3 generations until the late 80's. Our main horse breeds are Arabs followed by Thoroughbreds and 4 miniature ponies. In addition to horses you will see free range rabbits, chickens and Mss. Moo our beautiful cow. There are many antique shops in this area which tell the rich History of Southern NJ. Cowen mall and Royal Port are my two favorites. Hope you enjoy visiting our forgotten part of NJ and make great memories! Learn more about this land: Relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Feast your eyes on the luscious green pastures with grazing horses and cow while enjoying the sound of wild life all around you. You might even be lucky and spot a Bald Eagle here on our property. If you get caught on a rainy weekend we offer Plenty of indoor activities inside our large indoor arena. You can sit on the lounge and read, play board games, air hockey, darts, archery, watch a movie on the big 20" screen etc... PS movie viewing subject to fees and pre booking

99%

(46)

Great Times Camp Ground

2 sites · Lodging52 acres · Waterford Works, NJ

Great Times Camp ground has been the home of "Great Times Day Camp" for 25+ years. In the heart of the pinelands, GTDC provides a beautiful ground for campers to enjoy the outdoors and experience new things like boating, hiking, and more. Update - We have added a parking location close to the main site area! It is now extremely easy to access the site location!AC Available! Great Times Camp Ground consists 52 acres of the amazing outdoors including a large natural lake, acres of woods to explore, and lots of fun activities such as volleyball, basketball, and even a beach to enjoy. Great Times operates as a children's day camp during the summer months, but now can be enjoyed all year round.Activities Available:- Basketball Courts- Tennis Courts- Fishing- Beach- Sport Fields for ActivitiesIf you would like the bunkhouse / cabin - you must add it as an extra, otherwise it will be assumed that you are tent camping.

Olivia's Woods

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Marmora, NJ

Tall pines, deep woods, spring peepers, hiking/jogging trails and crazy-cool serenity, all seven minutes from Ocean City, NJ's beaches. This is the New Jersey few people know. You can rent our camper, which has AC and and electric, park your own camper or van (bring your own electric and water) or throw down your tents. There's a small pond and fire pit by the camper and, a community ping pong table, an outside shower, a jacuzzi and a private-entrance bathroom with a shower and washer/dryer. If you're interested in the camper, please let us know your dates because Airbnb keeps it busy. Right now it's $99 a night, with discounts for stays over 4 days. Besides the beaches (ask us about Strathmere, which has far fewer people and no parking fees) you've got a nearby park with tennis courts, pickleball courts in Ocean City, right across the bridge, state parks in Estelle Manor and Woodbine, less than a half-hour away, and more, including good mountain biking. Just ask.

Island Getaway

1 site · Tent26 acres · Kent Acres, DE

This property is located on the St. Jones River. Whether you enjoy the beauty of bald eagles or just want to get away, this site provides the best an unmatched camping experience. Another unique fact is the connection of the island to the underground railroad. We want families to be able to have a safe place to experience the outdoors in peace. Learn more about this land: A private island that is easy to reach by boat or kayak. The perfect location for those who want to enjoy water sports and other outdoor activities such as fishing. Reserve the entire island surrounded by water views and majestic bald eagles soaring above. Parking is available at the nearby public boat dock. Kayaks/canoes are available to reach the island on a limited basis. This is the perfect place to get away and reconnect with nature. Groups are also encouraged to contact us. However, we only host one group at a time. Campers under 18 are required to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There is a public parking lot at the Lebanon Landing Boat Dock area; The host is not responsible for any vehicles or property parked away from the island. Happy Camping!

Summer Jade Stables

7 sites · Lodging, RVs18 acres · Waterford Works, NJ

Learn more about this land:We are a horse farm with both indoor and outdoor arena. We often hold ranch sorting events and training. There are cows and goats on site as well. We also provide RVs for rent or rooms in the house.The entire farm is flat with plenty parking space. The entrance may look like a narrow long driveway, the parking lot behind building is huge, even for big truck.

That Dome Home RV Site

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Manahawkin, NJ

Want to be close to Long Beach Island (LBI) without the crowds? You've found the place! Our lot is 1.22 acres only several miles away from LBI, New Jersey. The owner-occupied residence is tucked away from the road with only one neighbor in sight. We live in a 1987 geodesic dome home on the property. Additionally, our self-converted 2002 International Blue Bird school bus is parked here. There is plenty of room for you to park in the circle driveway or to the left of the dome. Enjoy our large, fenced backyard with plenty of room for activities. We have yard games available (Yard Yahtzee, Spikeball, Molkky, lawn darts, and more) and you're welcome to bring them to the beach. Crab traps, fishing poles, and a cooler are available too. Feel free to start a campfire in the designated area or relax in the two hammocks. We promise you'll never be bored here! LBI beaches, the Manahawkin Lake, restaurants, bars, shopping, and more are all minutes away. Proximity via car: -5 minutes to LBI -3 minutes to Manahawkin Lake -3 minutes to The Old Causeway and Mud City (restaurants) -4 minutes to ManaFirkin Brewing Co. -40 minutes to Atlantic City -70 minutes to Philadelphia

100%

(2)

Old Pine Barrens Blueberry farm

1 site · RV11 acres · Presidential Lakes Estates, NJ

My property is an old blueberry farm. There is a cleared area that I use for dog training at the front of the property and some trails throughout the property; but mostly it’s a quiet place to sleep in a small/medium sized self-contained RV without slide-outs to the side (your RV or van must contain a toilet which must be emptied off-site. Further note: I DO NOT allow tents). Also, if your RV has low clearance, there is a slope from the road to the driveway, thus the bottom of your RV may scrape the ground (neither of my vans have a problem with this: I have a Ford E350 and a Ram Promaster). If on the site in July, you can pick a pint or two of blueberries (IF they are available) for your own use. The berries are chemical free. My neighbor to the right also has a pick-your-own farm with tended blueberry fields (you are not allowed to pick my neighbor’s crop unless he is there so you can pay him) My site is in the NJ Pine Barrens which is renowned for its unspoiled nature, abundant, and diverse wildlife. It is also within the Pinelands National Reserve and within the area designated by the United Nations as an International Biosphere Reserve. Nearby is the Batona Trail, the Franklin Parker preserve, canoeing on Chatsworth Lake or the Wading River, bicycling through the Pine Barrens and and the cranberry bogs on the bicycle lanes on Routes 532 and 563, the quaint village of Chatsworth also known as the Capital of the Pines, Hot Diggidy Dog a food stand within the village of Chatsworth, and Brendan Byrne State Forest which includes the historic cranberry farming village of Whitesbog where the cultivated blueberry was developed by Elizabeth White and Dr. Frederick Coville. The Whitesbog Preservation Trust which manages the village has an extensive year round calendar of events and a month-long blueberry festival during weekends in July.

100%

(1)

Lewes Peace & Rv

1 site · RV1 acre · Lewes, DE

This site is located next to my home. It has a level driveway with open flat yard. Can see beautiful sunsets overlooking a field. Property is located just outside the Lewes historic district and is within walking distance to shops, restaurants, and downtown Lewes. Close to bike trail, Lewes Beach, The Cape May Lewes Ferry, & Cape Henlopen State Park.

Available this weekend

100%

(3)

Felidae Farm

11 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Leipsic, DE

Secluded country living on a beautiful 35 acre farm minutes from the town of Smyrna & Dover area. Private and separate entrance area for that perfect getaway! Across from Bombay Hook Wildlife Refuge where there is plenty of sightseeing, hiking, or birdwatching...the sounds of nature when you stay at this unique place. Observe Barn & Tree Swallows, Eastern Bluebirds, and Purple Martins and more! Close to Big Oak park & literally down the road from Woodland Beach. Dont be surprised if you are greeted by a few of the rescue kitties that reside on the farm. Quiet, peaceful, safe & relaxing farm environment. Absolutely stunning view to wake up to!

Summer Jade Stables

7 sites · Lodging, RVs18 acres · Waterford Works, NJ

Learn more about this land:We are a horse farm with both indoor and outdoor arena. We often hold ranch sorting events and training. There are cows and goats on site as well. We also provide RVs for rent or rooms in the house.The entire farm is flat with plenty parking space. The entrance may look like a narrow long driveway, the parking lot behind building is huge, even for big truck.

Olivia's Woods

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Marmora, NJ

Tall pines, deep woods, spring peepers, hiking/jogging trails and crazy-cool serenity, all seven minutes from Ocean City, NJ's beaches. This is the New Jersey few people know. You can rent our camper, which has AC and and electric, park your own camper or van (bring your own electric and water) or throw down your tents. There's a small pond and fire pit by the camper and, a community ping pong table, an outside shower, a jacuzzi and a private-entrance bathroom with a shower and washer/dryer. If you're interested in the camper, please let us know your dates because Airbnb keeps it busy. Right now it's $99 a night, with discounts for stays over 4 days. Besides the beaches (ask us about Strathmere, which has far fewer people and no parking fees) you've got a nearby park with tennis courts, pickleball courts in Ocean City, right across the bridge, state parks in Estelle Manor and Woodbine, less than a half-hour away, and more, including good mountain biking. Just ask.

Countryside Horse Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents55 acres · Salem, NJ

Our horse farm is located in one of the most rural areas of Southern New Jersey. This land was once occupied by The Lanape Tribe. The adjacent creek was named after Chief Alloway. Artifacts of Native Americans have been found alongside this brackish water creek. This farm was for many years a dairy farm which was passed on for 3 generations until the late 80's. Our main horse breeds are Arabs followed by Thoroughbreds and 4 miniature ponies. In addition to horses you will see free range rabbits, chickens and Mss. Moo our beautiful cow. There are many antique shops in this area which tell the rich History of Southern NJ. Cowen mall and Royal Port are my two favorites. Hope you enjoy visiting our forgotten part of NJ and make great memories! Learn more about this land: Relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Feast your eyes on the luscious green pastures with grazing horses and cow while enjoying the sound of wild life all around you. You might even be lucky and spot a Bald Eagle here on our property. If you get caught on a rainy weekend we offer Plenty of indoor activities inside our large indoor arena. You can sit on the lounge and read, play board games, air hockey, darts, archery, watch a movie on the big 20" screen etc... PS movie viewing subject to fees and pre booking

Spacious Skies Country Oaks Campground

139 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Dorothy, NJ

Spacious Skies Country Oaks rests within the countryside of the Pine Barrens region of southern New Jersey, just an hour from Philadelphia and Wilmington, DE, and only 30 miles from the Atlantic City boardwalk. If you are looking for southern New Jersey’s best campsites you have found them! Find peace at our campground in New Jersey which is due south of the Wharton State Forest and surrounded by other wildlife management areas that dot the protected ecoregion. We offer back-in and pull-through RV sites that can accommodate all sized RVs and trailers! Each RV site includes a picnic table, fire ring, 30 or 50-amp electrical service, and sewer. We have deluxe patio sites and some rustic cabins too! Friendly people are waiting by the phone to tell you about our amazing activities, and an atmosphere that all campers will take to heart. Delightfully, Country Oaks campground happens to be surrounded by a number of designated wildlife management areas (WMAs)–Tuckahoe, Maple Lake, and Menantico Ponds to name a few! These areas are popular for hiking/walking, fishing, kayaking, and birding opportunities abound! Our nation’s bird, the bald eagle, is no stranger to this region, along with lots of other species for your bird-watching journal. The Warren E. Fox Nature Center is the headquarters for environmental education within the Atlantic County park system, with fun displays and trials for the whole family. Inland nature aside, Atlantic City and Ocean City beaches and boardwalks are 30-40 minutes away!

Star Hosts in Ocean City

100%

(21)

Island Getaway

1 site · Tent26 acres · Kent Acres, DE

This property is located on the St. Jones River. Whether you enjoy the beauty of bald eagles or just want to get away, this site provides the best an unmatched camping experience. Another unique fact is the connection of the island to the underground railroad. We want families to be able to have a safe place to experience the outdoors in peace. Learn more about this land: A private island that is easy to reach by boat or kayak. The perfect location for those who want to enjoy water sports and other outdoor activities such as fishing. Reserve the entire island surrounded by water views and majestic bald eagles soaring above. Parking is available at the nearby public boat dock. Kayaks/canoes are available to reach the island on a limited basis. This is the perfect place to get away and reconnect with nature. Groups are also encouraged to contact us. However, we only host one group at a time. Campers under 18 are required to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There is a public parking lot at the Lebanon Landing Boat Dock area; The host is not responsible for any vehicles or property parked away from the island. Happy Camping!

That Dome Home RV Site

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Manahawkin, NJ

Want to be close to Long Beach Island (LBI) without the crowds? You've found the place! Our lot is 1.22 acres only several miles away from LBI, New Jersey. The owner-occupied residence is tucked away from the road with only one neighbor in sight. We live in a 1987 geodesic dome home on the property. Additionally, our self-converted 2002 International Blue Bird school bus is parked here. There is plenty of room for you to park in the circle driveway or to the left of the dome. Enjoy our large, fenced backyard with plenty of room for activities. We have yard games available (Yard Yahtzee, Spikeball, Molkky, lawn darts, and more) and you're welcome to bring them to the beach. Crab traps, fishing poles, and a cooler are available too. Feel free to start a campfire in the designated area or relax in the two hammocks. We promise you'll never be bored here! LBI beaches, the Manahawkin Lake, restaurants, bars, shopping, and more are all minutes away. Proximity via car: -5 minutes to LBI -3 minutes to Manahawkin Lake -3 minutes to The Old Causeway and Mud City (restaurants) -4 minutes to ManaFirkin Brewing Co. -40 minutes to Atlantic City -70 minutes to Philadelphia

Countryside Horse Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents55 acres · Salem, NJ

Our horse farm is located in one of the most rural areas of Southern New Jersey. This land was once occupied by The Lanape Tribe. The adjacent creek was named after Chief Alloway. Artifacts of Native Americans have been found alongside this brackish water creek. This farm was for many years a dairy farm which was passed on for 3 generations until the late 80's. Our main horse breeds are Arabs followed by Thoroughbreds and 4 miniature ponies. In addition to horses you will see free range rabbits, chickens and Mss. Moo our beautiful cow. There are many antique shops in this area which tell the rich History of Southern NJ. Cowen mall and Royal Port are my two favorites. Hope you enjoy visiting our forgotten part of NJ and make great memories! Learn more about this land: Relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Feast your eyes on the luscious green pastures with grazing horses and cow while enjoying the sound of wild life all around you. You might even be lucky and spot a Bald Eagle here on our property. If you get caught on a rainy weekend we offer Plenty of indoor activities inside our large indoor arena. You can sit on the lounge and read, play board games, air hockey, darts, archery, watch a movie on the big 20" screen etc... PS movie viewing subject to fees and pre booking

Pine Creek

4 sites · TentsMedford, NJ

Old Cranbury farm in the middle of West Jersey. Pitch your tent in our hay field or set up a spot in the woods. Fish off our dock. Dark skies for viewing the stars.

Great Times Camp Ground

2 sites · Lodging52 acres · Waterford Works, NJ

Great Times Camp ground has been the home of "Great Times Day Camp" for 25+ years. In the heart of the pinelands, GTDC provides a beautiful ground for campers to enjoy the outdoors and experience new things like boating, hiking, and more. Update - We have added a parking location close to the main site area! It is now extremely easy to access the site location!AC Available! Great Times Camp Ground consists 52 acres of the amazing outdoors including a large natural lake, acres of woods to explore, and lots of fun activities such as volleyball, basketball, and even a beach to enjoy. Great Times operates as a children's day camp during the summer months, but now can be enjoyed all year round.Activities Available:- Basketball Courts- Tennis Courts- Fishing- Beach- Sport Fields for ActivitiesIf you would like the bunkhouse / cabin - you must add it as an extra, otherwise it will be assumed that you are tent camping.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(5)

Belleplain State Forest

Belleplain, New Jersey

98%

(22)

Wharton State Forest

Hammonton, New Jersey

100%

(2)

Parvin State Park

Rosenhayn, New Jersey

My husband, pitbull pup and I stumbled upon Bass River State Forest last year and have already made it an annual must! The sites are both beautiful and quiet and you're only steps to hiking and the water.

67%

(3)

Bass River State Forest

Tuckerton, New Jersey

100%

(1)

Brendan T. Byrne State Forest

Presidential Lakes Estates, New Jersey

94%

(10)

Cape Henlopen State Park

Lewes, Delaware

65%

(11)

Delaware Seashore State Park

Dewey Beach, Delaware

Camping near Ocean City guide

Overview

Ocean City sits along the Jersey Shore and is known for having one of the best beaches in the state, plus a historic boardwalk. Beach camping in town is an option (amenities may include a splash pad, mini golf, and full hookups), but campers can also venture to Belleplain State Forest to hike among the state’s greatest natural diversity, including Lake Nummy. Nearby Wharton State Forest offers exploration on the largest singular tract of land in the state park system, while nearby Bass River State Forest features pygmy forests and swimming in Lake Absegami. Reserve a tent or RV campsite to immerse yourself in nature for a few days.

Where to go

Belleplain State Forest

About a half hour west of Ocean City is Belleplain State Forest. The forest is part of the New Jersey pinelands and has a mix of oak-hickory forest, saltwater marsh, and mixed hardwood swamp. Campers can venture through 40 miles of trails by foot, bike, or horseback, or they can visit Lake Nummy for swimming and other water activities. The forest has 169 campsites for tents and RVs near flush toilets, showers, and laundry facilities. Electric and water hookups at some campgrounds. For families or groups, one large on-site cabin is also available to rent.

Wharton State Forest

Wharton State Forest is the largest state forest (and largest single tract of land in the state park system). Comprising over 125,000 acres, it offers 50 miles of marked hiking trails as well as boating, canoeing, and kayaking on the various waterways intersecting the forest. Batsto Village, a former bog iron and glassmaking town, offers guided tours and live demonstrations. Campers can then set up on primitive campsites or two on-site campgrounds with over 80 tent and trailer sites—some equipped with flush toilets, showers, and potable water. The forest also has nine furnished lakeside cabins along Atsion Lake.

Bass River State Forest

Set within the Pinelands National Reserve, Bass River State Forest spans over 23,500 acres of pine woods, pygmy forest, and an Atlantic white cedar bog. Swim, canoe, or kayak in Lake Absegami or explore Absegami Natural Area and West Pine Plains Natural Area. Then, spend the night at one of the 176 campsites for tents and trailers with showers, laundry facilities, and flush toilets. For a more unique experience, there are also nine accessible lean-tos outfitted with hardwood floors, wood stoves, and outdoor grills along Lake Absegami.

When to go

Ocean City is very popular during summer thanks to the beautiful beaches, boardwalk activities, and fishing opportunities. July tends to be the hottest month with an average high of 83°F. Most campgrounds nearby see plenty of activity from about March to November, as well, so it’s recommended to reserve a campsite early. Winter is considered the off-season with average temperatures reaching 29°F. However, the area still sees activity from campers looking to snowshoe and cross country ski in the nearby forests.