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As the most densely populated state in the U.S., New Jersey may not be the first that comes to mind for camping. Yet outside its major metropolitan areas and shopping centers, the Garden State lives up to its name. New Jersey’s natural beauty may surprise you, with gently rolling farmlands, pine forests, lakes, the Delaware River, and over 120 miles of Atlantic coastline. The state is rich with charming small towns and Native American and colonial historical sites.
From Atlantic City to Cape May, the Jersey Shore is a hot spot for summer vacationers—including RVers. The Delaware Water Gap area, at the border with Pennsylvania, is likewise a magnet for outdoor adventurers, from white water rafters and kayakers to rock climbers and backcountry hikers. Additional outdoor recreation and camping opportunities are waiting to welcome you throughout the state. New Jersey state parks, forests, and recreation areas provide more than a dozen campgrounds for RVers.
The camping experience is rustic, with no hookups, but is set in some of the most scenic parts of the state. While they may not have the most highly rated campgrounds, the state parks are worth looking into for an economical, centrally located RV site.
Reservations
To make a reservation, visit njportal.com/DEP/NJOutdoors
Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance. Same-day reservations can be made directly with the park, either over the phone or in person.
A 2-night minimum applies at most campgrounds and will be noted at the time of booking.
Campsite sizes
Site sizes vary by campground. You can find this information in the reservation system by filtering searches by RV length, or selecting a site and choosing “Site Details.” Note that height restrictions may apply at some parks. This is noted in red on the park’s website under “Camping.”
Accessibility
“ADA Accessible” campsites are searchable and bookable online and are intended to be used by persons with a disability. These sites should not be booked if accessibility is not required, unless there is no other suitable option available.
“ADA Required” sites can be booked only by persons with a disability. Discounts may be available; contact the park directly for more information.
Hookups
There are no hookups available in New Jersey state park campgrounds, with the exception of Spruce Run Recreation Area, which offers a few sites with water and electric hookups.
Connectivity
In general, WiFi is not offered. WiFi can be searched for in the reservation system and is displayed under “Site Details.” If connectivity is a priority, contact the park directly to ask about WiFi and cell service.
Maximum stay
The maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Additional facilities
In general, campsites are rustic, with a picnic table and fire ring or grill. Basic facilities found at most campgrounds are flush toilets and showers. Some campgrounds have dump stations. Additional park facilities may include playgrounds, a store or concessions, nature centers, interpretive programs, marked hiking trails, water access, and watercraft rentals. Information is available on each park’s website or by calling the park directly.
Cost
New Jersey state park campgrounds have a flat fee of $20 per night for residents, $25 for nonresidents.
Additional Fees:
State park entrance fee: Varies from $7 to $20 for nonresidents. An annual pass is available for $75 for nonresidents, $50 for residents.
Pet surcharge: $5 per night, includes up to 2 pets.
Nonrefundable transaction fee for initial reservation and for any changes: $5
Cancellation fee: $50 for nonresidents, or two nights’ camping fee (whichever is less).
Pet policies
Dogs and cats are allowed at some parks, as long as they’re kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. A maximum of 2 pets is allowed per campsite. License and proof of rabies vaccination are required at the time of reservation or at check-in. And of course, campers should always pick up after their pet.
Note that pets are restricted to certain camping areas and may be altogether prohibited at some campgrounds, such as Spruce Run Recreation Area. You can search for and book a designated pet-friendly campsite through the reservations system.
Additional regulations
- Maximum occupancy per site: 6 people. Maximum vehicle count varies and is specified during booking.Check-in time: 12 p.m. Check-out time: 12 p.m.
- Quiet hours: 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
- Alcoholic beverages: Prohibited.
- Generator use: Prohibited during quiet hours.
- Campfires: Allowed in designated rings or pits, following local advisories.
- Drone use: Prohibited.
Featured Campgrounds
Bass River State Forest
762 Stage Road, Tuckerton, NJ 08087
Bass River has been a state forest since 1905, and a destination for recreation ever since the 67-acre Lake Absegami was created in the 1930s. In addition to swimming, boating, and fishing, the park features several walking and nature trails. One of the protected nature areas is a unique stunted forest ecosystem, where pine and oak trees typically grow no more than four feet high. In fact, New Jersey contains the largest acreage of this type of forest in the world.
Bass River has two separate campgrounds on the north and south shore of the lake. About 50 sites are available for RVs, all under 30 feet. As with other New Jersey state park campgrounds, there are no hookups. Facilities include restrooms, showers, and laundry. The South Shore Campground is preferred for its more spacious and quiet sites, and was recently designated pet friendly. Bass River is centrally located, and while it’s convenient to the Garden State Parkway, it’s still a peaceful getaway that many families have been returning to year after year.
2 Old Mine Road, Columbia, NJ 07832
Encompassing some of the most scenic views and rugged terrain in northern New Jersey, Worthington State Forest offers more than 26 miles of trails, including seven miles of the Appalachian Trail. Hikes include a challenging climb to the top of Mount Tammany for panoramic views. A steep and rocky hike to Sunfish Pond rewards a stunning view of the glacial lake surrounded by native chestnut trees. A more accessible interpretive trail has been developed to provide natural and historical information about the park.
Worthington’s campground sits right on the shore of the Delaware River, providing easy access for canoeing and kayaking. Just over 50 sites are available for RVs and can accommodate rigs up to 45 feet long. Sites are spaced well apart among the trees, and have access to restrooms, showers, a dump station, and a playground. The forest office sells ice and firewood. With the river and hiking trails steps from your campsite, Worthington offers an ideal forest camping experience and also serves as a great base to tour the nearby Delaware Water Gap.
Belleplain State Forest
County Route 550, Woodbine, NJ 08270
Belleplain State Forest protects almost 23,000 acres of native pine, oak, and cedar trees and a 26-acre lake. Hiking, canoeing, fishing, swimming, and picnicking are popular activities with day-trippers and campers. Canoe rentals, a concession stand, and picnic areas are available, along with a limited number of interpretive programs. Located in the southern part of the state, the park is close to the Atlantic shore and the tourist destinations of Cape May and Ocean City.
The park’s campground has almost 120 sites for RVs, grouped together with tent camping in two different loops around the lake. About half of the sites can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet. A limited number of sites can fit up to 40 feet. There are no hookups, but potable water, a dump station, and well-maintained restrooms are available. The campground features pet-friendly sites and trails. With reportedly strong cell service, Belleplain is a good, economical option to camp in a peaceful natural setting while touring the area.
New Jersey state park campgrounds that accommodate RV camping
Allaire State Park
Bass River State Forest
Belleplain State Forest
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest
Cheesequake State Park
High Point State Park
Jenny Jump State Forest
Kittatinny Valley State Park
Parvin State Park
Spruce Run Recreation Area
Stephens State Park
Stokes State Forest
Swartswood State Park
Voorhees State Park
Wharton State Forest
Worthington State ForestFor more information on New Jersey state park campgrounds, visit njparksandforests.org/.
