Tent and yurt camping near Atco, New Jersey offers diverse terrain within the Pine Barrens ecosystem. The sandy soil in this region creates comfortable camping conditions with minimal rocks, while acidic conditions create the distinctive dark-colored waterways throughout the area. The region maintains moderate temperatures for extended camping seasons, with most facilities open from April through October, though summer months bring higher humidity and more active insect populations.
What to do
Kayak the Wading River: Launch directly from Bodine Fields in Wharton State Forest for an immersive water experience. "We tent camped at Bodine campground in 2018. Our site was right on Wading River and we launched our kayaks right at the site! Our tent is has a full view of the sky and at night it was like a planetarium as we admired the sky from our cots," reports Dina S.
Take a multi-day canoe trip: Wharton State Forest Hawkins Bridge Campground serves as an ideal starting point for river adventures. "Did a two day Canoe tour down the wading river and used the outfitter Micks Canoe. We started Friday night camping at Hawkins Bridge campground. This is a primitive campsite near the river," notes Thomas M., who continues "Wading river has a nice flow. It's a dark black river from the tannins."
Fish at multiple water spots: Old Cedar Campground offers fishing opportunities in well-maintained ponds. According to Robin D., the campground is "Very quiet Campground. Easily can sleep late here! Clean, woodsy and nice staff," while Craig W. adds "fishing was great" and notes his "grandchildren loved visiting us."
What campers like
Secluded, dark sky viewing: Brendan Byrne State Forest provides excellent stargazing opportunities. "I will start by saying you have to drive a good amount of distance to get into the campground and that is something I really enjoyed! Made me feel super secluded and disconnected from the outside!" writes Dorian P., adding "Seasonal rangers drove by a handful of times and there was a dumpster at the entrance of the campground area."
Well-maintained facilities: Parvin State Park offers clean accommodations and amenities. "The cabins are more rustic than most, which I enjoyed. While there was a stove the heating, which was necessary in November, was accomplished via a stove," states John S., who notes "the hiking is also very accessible Because it's basically pancake flat terrain."
Spacious campsites: Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest provides generous room for multiple tents and camping setups. "Wharton state forest provided us with the great outdoor and camping experience! The campside was clean, spacious, includes the firepit and the table. While we were surrounded by other campers, we enjoyed how private it was!!!" says Olga G., reflecting the sentiment of many visitors.
What you should know
Water quality varies by location: Bring sufficient drinking water, especially for tent and yurt camping in Atco, New Jersey's primitive sites. "The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing. Most of the showers were out of order. The toilets were clean but had the orange staining from the iron in the water," reports Frank J. about Parvin State Park Campground.
Insect preparation is essential: Tick activity is particularly high in late spring through summer. "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks! Overall a great time," advises Megan S. about her June camping experience.
Weather considerations: Many sites in low-lying areas can flood during heavy rainfall. "Site F 17 is the lowest point of the tent loop, which won't be a problem unless it rains. Unfortunately, it rained 3 inches one day and I literally dug a trench around the tent to keep it dry," reports Danielle S. about her experience at Mays Landing Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Select campgrounds with dedicated children's activities: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers family-friendly amenities with tent, RV, and glamping options. "There was so much to do there a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow and even more. They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget," shares Nicole S., adding "the place is so clean including the bathrooms."
Consider campgrounds with swimming options: Look for sites with safe, supervised water access. "We tent camped at Atsion in 2015: had flush toilets and was close to the checkin station/store as well as the beach on the lake. Some sites were right on the water and the sites were very big," notes Dina S.
Bring backup entertainment: Weather can change quickly in the Pine Barrens. "There is a ton of algae in this lake. We rented a canoe with the hopes of having more fishing success but the middle of the lake was just as bad! Site is great for people with families as there was a playground within 50 feet," shares Rosie R.
Tips from RVers
Navigational challenges: Wading Pines Camping Resort can be difficult to navigate with larger RVs. "Check in was easy but the roads are narrow and we had a hard time getting on to site 145," reports Stacy D., who also mentions "The campground is PACKED! Very busy with kids and golf carts-even kids driving golf carts."
Leveling considerations: Prepare with adequate leveling blocks at many area campgrounds. "Site are very unleveled so the staff switched us to a pull thru space that was a tad bit more level but still very unleveled," notes Daniel C., who further explains "the campground gave more of a Mobil home park feel and the park itself was a bit dated."
Hookup availability: Research hookup limitations before arrival. "Our site included a nice concrete pad big enough to park our 45' motorhome+ toad. Our site was roomy with plenty of mature shade trees," shares Matt S. about Jellystone Park South Jersey, emphasizing the importance of confirming your site accommodations.
