The New Jersey Campground Owners Association (NJCOA) is encouraging travelers to explore the state’s diverse natural landscapes through camping, emphasizing the range of outdoor experiences available across New Jersey’s independently operated campgrounds.
With destinations ranging from coastal beaches to mountain retreats, NJCOA is promoting the Garden State as an accessible and scenic camping destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and pet owners.
Camping in New Jersey offers visitors proximity to major metropolitan areas while providing access to natural settings that include forests, lakes, and oceanfronts.
The state’s varied geography allows campers to enjoy different types of experiences, including beach outings, mountain hiking, lakeside fishing, and wilderness exploration.
“The campgrounds in the New Jersey Campground Owners Association offer access to an array of experiences for those seeking to reconnect with nature,” NJCOA states.
One of the state’s most notable ecological regions is the New Jersey Pinelands National Reserve, also known as the Pine Barrens. This expansive forested area is the largest of its kind on the Eastern Seaboard and offers rustic camping opportunities among its rivers, forests, and rare wildlife species.
In the state’s northwestern region, the Kittatinny and Appalachian Mountains provide campers with high-elevation views, hiking trails, and rock climbing areas.
Popular destinations like Lake Hopatcong and Lake Wawayanda also give visitors the chance to participate in boating, swimming, and fishing.
Camping in New Jersey also supports a wide variety of recreational activities beyond hiking and fishing. “The state boasts an extensive network of hiking trails, including sections of the famous Appalachian Trail,” NJCOA noted.
Birdwatchers can explore migratory routes along the Delaware Bay, while the Delaware Water Gap provides opportunities for whitewater paddling and scenic exploration.
Stargazing is another highlight of camping in the state. Many campgrounds are located far from city lights, offering dark skies suitable for astronomy enthusiasts. Campers looking to enjoy clear night skies can choose from several quiet and remote campgrounds listed by NJCOA.
New Jersey’s campgrounds also focus on inclusivity and comfort for families and pet owners. Many locations offer playgrounds, scheduled events, and dog parks.
“Our family (and pet) friendly parks create an environment where everyone can enjoy the outdoors,” NJCOA explains.
Environmental stewardship remains a core focus of NJCOA and its member campgrounds. The state supports numerous conservation efforts to protect natural habitats and promote sustainable recreation, helping to ensure long-term access to New Jersey’s outdoor spaces.
To support tourism and outdoor recreation, NJCOA also directs potential visitors to resources such as VisitNJ.org, where travelers can find more information about the state’s beaches, mountains, and recreational sites.
Since 1963, NJCOA has served as the official association for New Jersey’s independently owned campgrounds. Headquartered in Marmora, the organization provides support, advocacy, and promotion for its members throughout the state.
Featured image by Sussex Skylands