The best lakeside camping in New Jersey

You don't have to go far in New Jersey to find waterfront refuge from the hustle and bustle. The Garden State is home to many lakes where campers can park an RV, pitch a tent, or relax on a cabin porch—perfect for a quick trip from areas like Trenton, Hoboken, and Newark. Camping resorts with pools and family-friendly activities are aplenty, but you can also find state park and private camping options. In the south and east, small lakes, many within the Pinelands National Reserve, offer easy access to Jersey Shore beaches or the Delaware Bay. Here, take advantage of the plentiful wildlife observatories or tour a nearby lighthouse. In the Skylands region of northwest Jersey, swim, boat, or fish on clear waters like glacial Catfish Pond or Wawayanda Lake, backed by forested hills. Late spring and early fall offer less crowds and good weather, and popular towns like Cape May or Blairstown provide bases to refuel when you're not at your lakeside tent campsite, RV spot, or cabin.