Shellbay Campground

For New Jersey residents seeking the perfect balance between coastal excitement and a shaded woodland retreat, Shellbay Campground stands as a nostalgic and well-established destination. Located in the heart of Cape May Court House, this family-owned and operated resort has been serving the Jersey Shore community for decades. As a local camper, you know that the "Jersey Cape" experience is about more than just the sand; it is about the camaraderie of the campfire, the convenience of being minutes from the boardwalk, and the joy of a facility that understands the needs of a family. Shellbay provides a tranquil environment that feels worlds away from the hustle of the Parkway, yet remains strategically positioned to access the state’s most beloved beaches.

The campground caters to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts, from seasonal residents who treat their site as a second home to weekend warriors exploring the coast in a tent or travel trailer. The atmosphere is defined by its friendly, community-centric vibe, where "saying hello is the norm." With a mix of sun-drenched open spaces and sites nestled under a canopy of mature trees, it offers a serene environment for relaxation. Whether you are planning a long summer stay or a quick four-night family getaway, Shellbay Campground emphasizes a simple, classic camping experience that focuses on clean facilities, active recreation, and the unique charm of Cape May County.

Location and Accessibility are among the primary draws for this facility. Situated at 227 West Shell Bay Avenue, the campground is just a mile west of the Garden State Parkway (Exit 9), making it incredibly easy to reach for travelers coming from North Jersey or the Philadelphia area. Its location is often cited as its greatest asset, placing campers within a 10 to 15-minute drive of the white sandy beaches of Stone Harbor, the high-energy boardwalks of Wildwood, and the historic elegance of Cape May. For locals, this means you can enjoy a day in the surf and be back at your quiet campsite in time for dinner.

• The facility features a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot to ensure all guests can navigate the grounds comfortably.
• Wheelchair accessible restrooms are available, reflecting the campground's commitment to inclusive service.
• The terrain is primarily flat, which is ideal for easy walking, biking, and stable RV leveling.
• Proximity to local essentials is excellent, with grocery stores, gas stations, and the Cape May County Park & Zoo just a short drive away.
• Free on-site parking is provided for guests, with ample room for both primary vehicles and camping units.

Services Offered at Shellbay Campground are designed to provide the comforts of home while maintaining an authentic outdoor feel. The park is a full-service RV park, equipped with modern infrastructure to support a variety of camping units, including large motorhomes with multiple slide-outs. For those who prefer a bit more structure, the campground also offers small cabins that are perfect for families. The staff is known for being accommodating and maintaining the grounds with a personal touch that only a family-run business can provide.

• Full RV hookups including electric (20/30/50 amp options), sewer, and water connections to suit modern rigs.
• Cable TV connections available at RV sites, allowing you to keep up with news or sports during your stay.
• Air-conditioned bathhouses and clean, well-maintained restroom facilities.
• A convenient on-site laundromat, making it easier for families to manage longer stays.
• A classic camp store stocked with essentials like ice, firewood, basic cooking supplies, and nostalgic treats.
• Propane gas exchange services available on-site for those using gas grills or heaters.
• A snack bar for quick bites and refreshments during the peak summer hours.

Features and Highlights of the resort make it a premier choice for families with active children. The recreational facilities are extensive, ensuring that there is never a dull moment even if you decide to spend the day away from the beach. The management places a strong emphasis on "good for kids" activities, providing a safe and engaging environment where children can build summer friendships and explore the outdoors.

• A large outdoor swimming pool complemented by a relaxing hot tub/whirlpool spa and a dedicated kiddie pool for the little ones.
• Extensive sports facilities including courts for basketball, tennis, volleyball, shuffleboard, and a softball/baseball field.
• A miniature golf course on-site, offering a fun competitive activity for all ages.
• A playground area and a dedicated game room for indoor entertainment on rainy days.
• A dog park and "dogs allowed" policy, ensuring that your four-legged family members are part of the vacation.
• Organized group activities such as bingo nights and movie nights held in the large recreation hall.
• Designated picnic areas that are perfect for outdoor family meals and community gatherings.

Contact Information is essential for planning your trip, especially since Shellbay Campground is a popular spot that frequently fills up during the peak summer season. Please note that the campground operates on a cash-only basis for many fees, so planning ahead is key to a smooth check-in process.

• Address: 227 W Shell Bay Ave, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210, USA
• Phone: (609) 465-4770
• Mobile Phone: +1 609-465-4770
• Season: Typically open from May through early October.

What is worth choosing at Shellbay Campground is the specific lifestyle it offers. If you are a resident of New Jersey looking for a "home away from home" near the shore, the seasonal sites are worth choosing for their incredible value. Often, a full season at a site like this costs less than a single week in a shore house rental, allowing your family to visit the beach as often as you like throughout the summer. For transient campers, the 20 sites reserved for short-term stays are worth choosing for their generous size and reasonable pricing compared to local hotels.

Additionally, for those who value variety, choosing Shellbay means choosing a basecamp that gives you the flexibility to visit Stone Harbor one day and the Cape May Lighthouse the next. The nostalgic feel of the camp store and the personal attention from the staff make it a standout choice for those who find large corporate-owned campgrounds to be too impersonal. While the social atmosphere can be lively, particularly on holiday weekends, the trade-off is a vibrant community where children can play safely and adults can relax. If you want a clean, well-maintained, and family-focused park that captures the essence of a New Jersey summer, Shellbay Campground is a local gem that deserves a spot on your itinerary.