Go Camping At These NJ State Parks; All State Parks Free This Summer

NEW JERSEY — Memorial Day weekend is upon us and if camping is on your agenda, it's not too late to make reservations at your favorite state park or local campground.

Also this week, Gov. Murphy announced that, as of Memorial Day Weekend, entry to all New Jersey state parks, forests and recreation areas will be free of charge, all summer long. This is because of surplus funds in the fiscal year 2023 budget proposal and meant to advance affordability and opportunity in New Jersey.

Entrance fees at all state parks will be waived for all visitors this summer, regardless of state residency. Anyone who already purchased a 2022 annual State Park Pass will automatically receive a full refund.

However, note that other individual park fees remain in place, including camping permits, interpretive programs and mobile sport fishing permits.

Lifeguards at Island Beach State Park, the only oceanfront swimming beach under the State Park Service’s administration, will go on duty at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 28.

Lakefront lifeguards are anticipated to be on duty in mid-June at nine swimming areas throughout the state park system. Park users may check the current operating status of their favorite swimming area at State Park Service’s website.

Do you or your child need a summer job? The State Park Service continues to recruit lifeguards at all swimming areas throughout New Jersey. Salaries start at $17.50 per hour at lakefront beaches, while oceanfront guards at Island Beach State Park start at $18.50 per hour. Prior experience is not necessary, but candidates must pass running and swim tests prior to employment. Apply today by visiting nj.gov/dep/workinparks

While it might be too late to snag your choice spot, there are still plenty of spots available at these nearby parks and campgrounds:

ALLAIRE STATE PARK, FARMINGDALE Reserve your spot (CLICK HERE)

BASS RIVER STATE FOREST, TUCKERTON Reserve your spot (CLICK HERE)

BELLEPLAIN STATE FOREST, WOODBINE Reserve your spot (CLICK HERE)

BRENDAN T BYRNE STATE FOREST, NEW LISBON Reserve your spot (CLICK HERE)

JENNY JUMP STATE FOREST, HOPE Reserve your spot (CLICK HERE)

PARVIN STATE PARK, PITTSGROVE Reserve your spot (CLICK HERE)

ROUND VALLEY RECREATION AREA, LEBANON Reserve your spot (CLICK HERE)

STOKES STATE FOREST, BRANCHVILLE Reserve your spot (CLICK HERE)

SWARTSWOOD STATE PARK, SWARTSWOOD Reserve your spot (CLICK HERE)

WHARTON STATE FOREST, HAMMONTON Reserve your spot (CLICK HERE)

Not sure where to go? Check out CampgroundReviews.com to see photos, which spots earned the highest marks for amenities and tips from fellow campers.