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Camping near Ocean City guide
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.