The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Ocean City, New Jersey

Looking to go camping near Ocean City, New Jersey? Hipcamp offers over 149 options specifically tailored for river enthusiasts like you. Whether you're into fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the scenic views, there's a campsite for you. Check out top-rated campsites like Scenic Turtle Ridge (162 reviews), The Draper Property (128 reviews), and Ironwood Trail & Private Campground (105 reviews). With amenities like trash disposal, showers, and campfire pits, you'll have everything you need for a great camping experience. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable adventure along the river! Average prices per night start at $75, with options as low as $30.

100% (137)

Top-rated campgrounds near Ocean City

Looking to go camping near Ocean City, New Jersey? Hipcamp offers over 149 options specifically tailored for river enthusiasts like you. Whether you're into fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the scenic views, there's a campsite for you. Check out top-rated campsites like Scenic Turtle Ridge (162 reviews), The Draper Property (128 reviews), and Ironwood Trail & Private Campground (105 reviews). With amenities like trash disposal, showers, and campfire pits, you'll have everything you need for a great camping experience. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable adventure along the river! Average prices per night start at $75, with options as low as $30.

100% (137)

Top-rated campgrounds near Ocean City

1. Countryside Horse Farm

99%

(178)

48mi from Ocean City · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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 5 Arabians followed by 2 Thoroughbreds and 2 miniature ponies. In addition to horses you will see free range rabbits, chickens and beautiful cows. 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. Another must see experience (at least once) in the area is The Cowtown Rodeo, one of the first and oldest in the country, only 14 minutes drive. Cool and brand new Brewery opening up soon right across the rd from Cowtown and right next to The best Cowboy outfitter. https://maps.app.goo.gl/TbK3TfJUDk9Tuziv9 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 cows 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, pool, darts, archery, watch a movie on the big 20" screen etc... PS movie viewing subject to fees and booking 1-2 days in advance. Thank you for your interest and considerations and hope to be hosting your next camping adventure. :)

2. Wading Pines Camping Resort

100%

(3)

29mi from Ocean City · 195 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Located right on the Wading River, you just can’t get any further into the New Jersey Pinelands unless you choose to rent a canoe or kayak (right at the campground, of course!) and paddle downstream to one of the many secluded picnic spots along the riverbanks. If you prefer to stay “closer to home”, you can picnic at our private island in the river, take a dip in our spacious saltwater pool, fish in our privately stocked pond, or enjoy every sporting activity from basketball to sand volleyball to horseshoes! You can board our “Jersey Devil” train ride for a scenic spin through the campground. If you decide to wander beyond our gates, you will find that you are just a short drive away from every major tourist attraction in Southern New Jersey … including world-famous beaches, the Atlantic City casinos and boardwalk, major theme parks, and terrific deep sea fishing. Our office hours are as follows: Sunday through Thursday - 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Friday and Saturday - 8:00 am - 8:00 pm If arriving outside of these times, please find your Late Arrival Package in the clear box on the front of the store. If you need any further assistance, the after hours phone number is posted on the front door of the store. FACILITIES • 300 sites for all types of RVs • 16 rental cabins • Water & Electric or Full hookup sites • Many 50-amp electric services • Riverfront & Pull-thru sites • Picnic table & fire ring at each site • Laundromat • Rec hall / Game room / Snack bar • Well-stocked general store • Canoe & Kayak rentals • Firewood / Ice • Dumping stations / Portable dumping service • Pets allowed (on leash) – New dog park AMENITIES • Salt water swimming pool • Kayaking and Canoeing on the river (The Wading River is owned and administered by the State of New Jersey, Department of Environmental Services, State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites, and State Park Service). • Fishing in our private, stocked pond • Playground • Basketball • Volleyball • Horseshoes • Shuffleboard • Weekend train rides throughout the park • Live entertainment on weekends

3. Island Getaway

99%

(34)

49mi from Ocean City · 1 site · Tent

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!

4. Wharton State Forest

96%

(26)

192 sites · Hammonton, New Jersey

Say all you want about New Jersey, you can't deny the parks are top notch.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Bass River State Forest

63%

(4)

197 sites · Tuckerton, New Jersey

Discover the natural allure of Bass River State Forest.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Riverside Ship Escape

8.6mi from Ocean City · 1 site · Lodging

Welcome aboard this one-of-a-kind rental property – the top deck of a charming ship, nestled on a tranquil microfarm. Surrounded by nature, you'll find chickens clucking in the yard, pigs rooting around, and a lush garden offering fresh produce right at your doorstep. This unique retreat offers both rustic charm and modern comforts, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature. Just a short 3-minute walk from the Tuckahoe River, you’ll have access to a public beach and boat launch, where you can enjoy the serene waters. We provide kayaks, life jackets, and paddles, so you can easily take to the river for a peaceful paddle or day of exploration. The property is conveniently located just 10 miles from the lively Ocean City, NJ, and 8 miles from the beautiful Atlantic County Park, making it a perfect blend of seclusion and access to local attractions. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this ship deck on the microfarm is the perfect base for your next escape.

7. Four Seasons Campground

43mi from Ocean City · 24 sites

Discover the unique charm of Four Seasons Campground, the premier vacation destination in South Jersey, where relaxation meets stunning natural beauty. Set in a picturesque country landscape, our campground offers a serene escape for families and friends alike. With a variety of amenities and activities, we cater to every type of vacationer, ensuring your stay is as active or as laid-back as you desire. Our summer weekends are filled with exciting themes and engaging activities, providing you with endless options for fun and relaxation. The Activity Program Guide serves as your essential planning tool, featuring a monthly overview of themes that you won’t want to miss. While we have retained many of your favorite weekends, we are thrilled to introduce several new themed events that promise to enhance your experience. Stay connected with us for the latest updates! You can find detailed information about upcoming weekends on our Facebook page and in our “Weekend Program Flyer,” available every Friday at the Camp Store. We can’t wait to welcome you to Four Seasons Campground and create unforgettable summer memories together!

8. Brendan T. Byrne State Forest

100%

(1)

91 sites · Presidential Lakes Estates, New Jersey

Discover the natural splendor of Brendan T. Byrne State Forest.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Public campgrounds near Ocean City

100%

(4)

Bodine Field Camping Area

25mi from Ocean City · 30 sites · in Wharton State Forest

100%

(1)

Buttonwood Hill Camping Area

25mi from Ocean City · 5 sites · in Wharton State Forest

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.

South Shore Campground

26mi from Ocean City · 92 sites · Tents, RVs · in Bass River State Forest

Bass River Group Area

26mi from Ocean City · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Bass River State Forest

Bass River Cabins

26mi from Ocean City · 6 sites · in Bass River State Forest

100%

(1)

North Shore Campground

27mi from Ocean City · 93 sites · Tents, RVs · in Bass River State Forest

100%

(1)

Batona Camping Area

28mi from Ocean City · 13 sites · in Wharton State Forest

100%

(1)

Godfrey Bridge Camping Area

29mi from Ocean City · 34 sites · in Wharton State Forest

100%

(1)

Hawkins Bridge Camping Area

30mi from Ocean City · 13 sites · in Wharton State Forest

This is Campsite 1 at Lower Forge Campground. There is a fire ring. That's it.

92%

(6)

Lower Forge Camping Area

31mi from Ocean City · 9 sites · in Wharton State Forest

92%

(6)

Mullica River Camping Area

31mi from Ocean City · 10 sites · in Wharton State Forest

100%

(5)

Atsion Campground

33mi from Ocean City · 59 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wharton State Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Yolie

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Countryside Horse Farm

Loredana's land is absolutely amazing and peaceful. I had a wonderful 2 night stay and will be returning. Loredana is so warm and kind and the horses are beautiful. This was my first ever camping trip and this was the perfect place, thank you so much Loredana!

B

Braudio

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Countryside Horse Farm

We had a great time staying here. My nephews and I were looking for a spot to spend the night and they quickly accepted our reservation. The farm is amazing and unique. We would definitely stay here again!

J

Javid

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Island Getaway

We loved the island and La Mar was an amazing host. 5 of us spent a weekend on the island. If you have no experience canoeing, be prepared. Being from NYC, we are inexperienced and it took us an hour to row the mile to the island against the tide. if you can get your own power boat to take you there, it will make life a whole lot easier. definitely a challenge, but it was amazing once we made it. The island is relaxing for a weekend. You also get to do some fishing, though we didn't have much luck in October. also - low tide is really low tide. don't plan on going out until the tide comes in a bit. I would recommend taking lots of firewood and a portable toilet. I can't say enough about how communicative and accommodating La Mar is. We're already talking about our next trip.

K

Kaitlin

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Countryside Horse Farm

We stayed at campsite #1 and had a wonderful time. Loredana was so kind and super helpful in setting up firewood & eggs for our arrival. Beautiful view from our site. Nice balance of being tucked away in nature with access to some comforts.

L

Lauren

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Island Getaway

As a quick getaway we booked La Mar’s island. It’s pretty well kept and has a large campfire area overlooking the water. Easy fishing from the island as long as it’s not low tide. Lots of space to camp with multiple tents if desired. You’re able to watch bald eagles and other wildlife, we even saw an otter. The only downfall is you can hear the highway all night long. I would definitely book again for a quick getaway!

M

Meaghan

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Countryside Horse Farm

We had a lovely time! Loredana was a gracious and welcoming host. We loved spending time with the horses and enjoying the beautiful farm.

F

Frank

October 2025

12 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Countryside Horse Farm

What a great place and a gracious host. With a beautiful pastor and lovley stream, this place was heaven. Horses are literally around you and you are in the field with your tent or buscamper. Sunset and sunrise were amazing here, and you have the place all to yourself. The sites are really private and big. The grass was manicured like a football stadium. I felt bad about driving on it. lol All kidding aside. This place was heaven. We are going back soon.

K

Kristy

September 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Countryside Horse Farm

I loved camping at the farm! I booked last minute as I decided I needed a rest on my way home from a road trip, and Loredana was so accommodating. It was amazing to wake up with the horses visiting my campsite. Loredana left me fresh chicken eggs, and showed me her beautiful art gallery in the morning after making me an espresso. She’s such a lovely soul, and I know I will be returning in the future. Hopefully with my whole family this time!!

M

Madeline

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Countryside Horse Farm

The best experience ever, beautiful vibe and everything was so clean I Really recomiende

c

chaim

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Countryside Horse Farm

Loredana is amazing! We had a wonderful time. We were a group of 19 and rented the entire ranch. The pictures don’t do this place justice but it has everything you need for a great time! The campgrounds are beautiful right by the water and there’s a tub there to bathe with fresh well water. Loredana was so helpful throughout our stay and she welcomed us into her home with open arms. The animals there are worth the trip alone. We loved her horses and ponies. Thank you we can’t wait to come back again soon.

L

Luke

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Island Getaway

La Mar was the best host. Great island getaway for a few days

K

Kelly

September 2025

With pets

2 nights at Wading Pines Camping Resort

Entire campground was very clean with lots of activities, a fishing pond and a river to float down. The cabin had ample room and my pups were welcome. We even pitched a tent right outside for my son to camp out. The store was huge and had everything you could possibly need or want so you don’t need to leave the site.

M

Mariia

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Countryside Horse Farm

Amazing place! Very well maintained territory. No insects near the water, we fell in love with this place, everything is very convenient and organized, we will definitely come back

Naveen

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Island Getaway

It was a wonderful experience. We went there to spend the weekend and we absolutely loved it. The island was very well maintained and had enough privacy. Even though we could hear the highway noise it didnt bother us much. And being a bird watcher myself, i was overjoyed by seeing the wildlife around this area including ospreys and bald eagles.We spent entire day fishing in kayak and photographing birds. And LaMar was awesome host and was very responsive. He went above and beyond to help us with the trip. Would love to come back !

Jim

August 2025

16 ft campervan

3 nights at Countryside Horse Farm

We are avid Hip Camp travelers and this is not the first time we have stayed at Loredana’s. The property is awesome and Loredana is an amazing host.

S

Stefanie

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Countryside Horse Farm

Beautiful and pristine place. I enjoyed my stay. Saw some birds, including a heron, and lots of butterflies and a meteor. The horses and ponies are beautiful. Wood is available for purchase for the fire pit, which of course we utilized. The ground is level for pitching tents (there were 3 of us, 2 tents). The campsite is nice and private and there are trees for shade with a nice view of the water. The port-a-potty is a bit of a walk from Campsite 3, so be prepared for that. Also, nothing can be done about this, but if you are a light sleeper and camping at campsite 3, best to bring earplugs. The campsite is right by a road and vehicles were driving past intermittently throughout the night. I am a light sleeper and woke up a few times. I would have liked to stay another night but we had to leave.

L

Luciano

August 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Countryside Horse Farm

Our stay at Loredana’s farm was amazing! The site was very clean and well maintained. We did a grooming session with Figaro (the horse) and met all of the others as well. It was a terrific experience that we’ll remember forever. Thank you so much!

I

Isaac

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Island Getaway

The island is a little oasis and perfect for a camping getaway. We couldn’t ask for a better host than La mar, very communicative, and so helpful. Hope to come back soon.

T

TheMad

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Countryside Horse Farm

We rented the entire site for a retreat earlier this month, with a group of about 25 people. There was plenty of space to accommodate everyone—some stayed in vans, others in trailers, and several in tents. The property itself is absolutely stunning and meticulously maintained. Each site was beautifully arranged, complete with a full bundle of firewood by the firepit. Some spots featured charming tables and chairs perfect for a romantic dinner, while others were nestled by the water. Communication with Loredana was seamless. She responded quickly to our many questions and remained attentive throughout our stay. Her kindness stood out—at one point on Saturday, she even surprised us with the most incredible homemade Caprese. Having horses roam freely around the site added a magical touch, though you do need to watch your step! It was delightful to be greeted by animals wherever we went. The full kitchen was functional but could use some upgrades and additional cookware. Still, it met our needs for preparing shared meals. Overall, the property is truly unique and Loredana is a fantastic host. I’d highly recommend booking this site.

G

Gabriella

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Countryside Horse Farm

We camped at site #1 and it was beautiful! It's incredibly spacious and has a lovely view of the water (and the horses!) We especially appreciated the offering to add homegrown herbs and farm-fresh eggs to our reservation...it was a special touch!