Lake Nummy

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For New Jersey residents yearning for a genuine escape into the tranquility of nature, Lake Nummy Campground, nestled within the expansive Belleplain State Forest, offers a compelling and authentic outdoor experience. Situated in Woodbine, NJ, this campground centers around the picturesque Lake Nummy, a serene body of water that acts as the heart of many park activities. It's a place where the sounds of the forest replace city noise, and the simple pleasures of camping take center stage.

Lake Nummy Campground is a destination for those who appreciate a more rustic and peaceful environment, prioritizing natural beauty and outdoor pursuits. While it may not boast elaborate resort-style amenities, its charm lies in its simplicity and direct connection to the surrounding wilderness. Visitors often highlight its quiet atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation, introspection, and quality time with loved ones. It’s a true gem within the New Jersey State Park system, offering a back-to-basics camping experience where the focus is on enjoying the natural environment. Whether you're pitching a tent under the canopy of pines or settling into a cozy lean-to cabin, Lake Nummy provides a welcoming setting for your next outdoor adventure.

Lake Nummy Campground is strategically located within Belleplain State Forest at 210 Meisle Rd, Woodbine, NJ 08270, USA. This South Jersey address places it in a prime position for convenient access from various parts of the state, making it an attractive destination for local New Jersey users seeking an accessible natural retreat.

For those traveling from North or Central Jersey, the drive typically involves navigating south on major highways like the Garden State Parkway, leading into the heart of the Pinelands. This ensures that a peaceful escape is just a few hours' drive away, offering a significant advantage for weekend trips or spontaneous getaways. Residents of the southern counties, including Cape May, Atlantic, and Cumberland, will find the campground particularly easy to reach, often within a short, scenic drive.

While the campground offers a deep immersion in nature, its location is far from isolated. The nearby town of Woodbine provides essential services and supplies should you need anything during your stay. Furthermore, the broader South Jersey region means that other attractions are within reach. For instance, the famous beaches and boardwalks of the Jersey Shore, such as Ocean City and Cape May, are a reasonable drive away. This allows visitors the flexibility to combine their rustic camping experience with day trips to the coast, offering a diverse vacation itinerary. The balance of seclusion and accessibility makes Lake Nummy an excellent choice for New Jersey locals looking to experience the best of both the forest and the shore.

Lake Nummy Campground, as part of Belleplain State Forest, provides a range of services and facilities designed to support a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, catering to various preferences from rustic to slightly more convenient options.

• Campsites: The campground offers a variety of tent and trailer sites. Each site typically includes a fire ring and a picnic table, essential for traditional camping. While many sites are primitive, some (primarily in the CCC campground area) may offer water and electric hookups, providing added convenience for RV and trailer campers. Sites accommodate a maximum of six campers, two vehicles, and three tents.

• Lean-to Cabins: A distinctive offering at Lake Nummy are the fourteen lean-to cabins. These provide a step up from tent camping, featuring a wooden structure with a roof, a deck, and sleeping space for up to six people. They are equipped with propane heaters (especially useful during cooler months from November through March), an outdoor picnic table, fire ring, and grill. While they offer some protection from the elements, as noted by a reviewer, travelers should "bundle up" if outside temperatures are significantly below freezing, as the heat may not fully counteract very cold conditions.

• Restrooms and Showers: Flush toilets and hot showers are available within walking distance of most campsites and lean-tos. These facilities are maintained by the state park service to ensure cleanliness for campers.

• Laundry Facilities: For extended stays, or just to freshen up clothes, laundry facilities are conveniently located near the camping areas.

• Trailer Dumping Station: An on-site trailer sanitary dump station is available for RV and trailer campers, typically operating from March through November.

• Boat and Canoe Rentals: At Lake Nummy itself, visitors can rent canoes and kayaks, providing a great way to explore the lake without needing to transport their own watercraft. The cost for canoe rental is approximately $10 per hour.

• Concession Stand: During the peak summer season (Memorial Day through Labor Day), a concession stand operates at the Lake Nummy beach complex, offering refreshments, novelties, and beach supplies for convenience.

• Nature Center: The park's Nature Center serves as an educational hub, often providing information about local ecology, wildlife, and interpretive programs that can enhance a visitor's understanding of the surrounding forest.

Lake Nummy Campground, as an integral part of Belleplain State Forest, offers several key features and highlights that enhance the camping and outdoor experience for New Jersey locals:

• Lake Nummy Itself: The focal point of the campground, Lake Nummy, provides a tranquil setting for various water activities. During the summer, a designated swimming beach with lifeguards is open (Memorial Day to Labor Day). Beyond swimming, the lake is popular for boating, canoeing, and kayaking, allowing visitors to leisurely paddle its calm waters. While fishing from the shore can yield algae, the lake offers opportunities to catch fish in deeper areas, particularly from a boat.

• Extensive Trail System: Belleplain State Forest boasts over 50 miles of marked trails that weave through diverse forest ecosystems, including pine and oak woodlands and cedar swamps. These trails are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and peaceful nature walks. The generally flat terrain makes them accessible for various skill levels.

• Wildlife and Birdwatching: The forest is a renowned destination for birdwatching, especially during spring and fall migrations. Nature enthusiasts can spot a wide array of bird species, as well as signs of deer, fox, opossums, and various smaller mammals, making every stroll an opportunity for discovery.

• Kevin's Kitchen: While details may vary, the mention of "Kevin's Kitchen" by a past visitor suggests a local food establishment within or very close to the park, providing a convenient option for meals or snacks beyond what campers prepare at their sites.

• Nature Center: The presence of a Nature Center offers an educational component to the visit. These centers typically feature exhibits on local flora and fauna, provide information about the park's history, and sometimes host interpretive programs or guided walks.

• Picnic Areas: The park provides various picnic areas equipped with tables and charcoal grills, perfect for day visitors or campers looking for a change of scenery for their outdoor meals. A large group picnic area with a shelter and playground is also available for bigger gatherings.

• Year-Round Opportunities: While some services like the swimming beach are seasonal, many camping options, including lean-tos and standard campsites, are open year-round. This allows for diverse experiences, from quiet, chilly winter excursions to vibrant summer stays.

As a New Jersey State Park facility, Lake Nummy Campground operates under the standardized fee structure set by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) State Park Service. This means that traditional commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the marketing sense are generally not applicable. However, there are inherent value propositions and specific pricing tiers that New Jersey residents should be aware of:

• NJ Resident vs. Non-Resident Rates: New Jersey residents typically benefit from lower fees for entrance to state parks and for campsite/cabin rentals compared to non-residents. This is a built-in advantage for locals, making outdoor recreation more affordable within their home state.

• Annual State Park Pass: For frequent visitors to Belleplain or other New Jersey State Parks, purchasing an Annual State Park Pass can lead to significant savings on vehicle entrance fees throughout the year. While it doesn't directly reduce camping fees, it enhances the overall value for repeated visits.

• Standardized Camping Fees: The nightly rates for tent/trailer sites and lean-to cabins are set by the state and are generally competitive for the amenities and natural environment provided. These rates offer consistent, transparent pricing.

• Off-Peak Season Benefits: While not a "promotion," camping during the off-peak seasons (fall, winter, early spring) often means fewer crowds, a more tranquil experience, and potentially easier reservation availability. Some facilities, like the swimming beach, may be closed, but the core camping experience remains. As one reviewer noted, an "early March excursion was quiet" and allowed "full rein of the park."

• Group Rates: For larger gatherings, Belleplain offers group campsites and a group cabin (East Creek Cabin) which are priced to accommodate a higher number of individuals, often providing a more cost-effective solution for big groups.

To determine the exact current fees for your specific dates, desired accommodation type (tent, RV with hookup, lean-to), and residency status, it is always best to consult the official New Jersey State Park Service website or contact Belleplain State Forest directly.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Lake Nummy Campground within Belleplain State Forest, you can use the following contact details:

• Address: 210 Meisle Rd, Woodbine, NJ 08270, USA

• Main Park Office Phone: (609) 861-2404

It is generally recommended to call the main park office during their operating hours for the most up-to-date information on campsite availability, rules, conditions, and any specific questions you may have about Lake Nummy or the broader Belleplain State Forest. For booking campsites, the official New Jersey State Park Service online reservation system is typically used.

For residents of New Jersey, Lake Nummy Campground in Belleplain State Forest is an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for a variety of reasons, offering a genuine and accessible outdoor experience right in their home state.

Firstly, its convenient location in South Jersey makes it an ideal spot for a quick escape from daily routines, whether for a weekend or a longer stay. Avoiding the need for extensive travel, New Jerseyans can easily reach this serene natural retreat, maximizing their time enjoying the outdoors rather than being stuck in traffic. The blend of deep forest immersion and relatively easy access to local towns and even the Jersey Shore beaches offers a versatile vacation option without venturing far from home.

Secondly, Lake Nummy Campground provides a rustic yet comfortable camping experience that appeals to those looking to truly unplug and connect with nature. While the lean-to cabins offer a unique semi-sheltered option, campers should be prepared for cooler temperatures as noted in reviews, reinforcing the authentic outdoor feel. The availability of traditional tent and RV sites, along with essential amenities like clean restrooms and showers, ensures a pleasant stay. This focus on fundamental camping, combined with opportunities for fishing, canoeing on Lake Nummy, and exploring miles of trails, fosters a sense of adventure and tranquility often sought after by those needing a break from urban life.

Finally, as a New Jersey State Park, Belleplain and its Lake Nummy Campground represent an affordable and well-maintained public resource. The state's commitment to preserving these natural spaces means consistent quality in terms of cleanliness and environmental integrity. For families, individuals, and groups within New Jersey, it offers a cost-effective way to enjoy outdoor recreation, make lasting memories, and appreciate the natural beauty that the state has to offer. It's a cherished local spot where peace, natural beauty, and simple outdoor joys converge, making it a perfect retreat for any New Jerseyan seeking a true taste of the wilderness.

Lake Nummy

210 Meisle Rd, Woodbine, NJ 08270, USA