Camping options near Beach Haven, New Jersey range from rustic tent sites to full-hookup RV accommodations, all within the unique Pine Barrens ecosystem. The sandy, acidic soil of this region creates distinctive dark-colored rivers and supports specialized plant life not found elsewhere in the state. Most campgrounds in the area operate from April through October, with nighttime temperatures ranging from the low 50s in spring and fall to the mid-70s during summer months.
What to do
Kayaking and river activities: Wharton State Forest offers unique blackwater paddling experiences along the Wading River. A camper noted, "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." The dark water comes from natural tannins, not pollution.
Lake recreation: Several campgrounds maintain swimming areas and boat rentals during summer months. At Belleplain State Forest, campers enjoy "The Kayak and Canoe rentals were right near us. The nature center had planned activities for families each day. The swimming lake was beautiful." Most lake facilities operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Seasonal events: Halloween celebrations are popular at many campgrounds from mid-September through October. One camper at Sea Pirate Campground shared, "Halloween fun was really good. Many kids grade school and elementary level enjoyed the dance. The sites were decorated and they had trick or treating." Most campgrounds require advance registration for holiday weekends.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campground layouts vary significantly across the region. At Brendan Byrne State Forest, "The campsites are spaced out enough to offer privacy. Good trees for hammocking! Plenty of room for a few tents at each site." State forest campgrounds typically offer more space between sites than private resorts.
Pine Barrens ecosystem: The unique environment creates distinctive camping conditions. One visitor noted, "The Pine Barrens overall have a fascinating ecosystem. Nutrient poor, sandy soil limits the amount of foliage, and the barrens are primarily populated with fast-growing pines that grow tall, die, and fall. These decaying trees give the rivers in the barrens its signature dark color."
Proximity to beaches: Many campers appreciate the balance between wooded camping and beach access. A visitor to Atlantic Shore Pines Campground shared, "This place is very close to Bass River State Park with lots of hiking and outdoor activities. Restaurants and stores in Tuckerton are just a few minutes away. This campground is about 20 minutes from LBI, and 35 minutes from Ocean City."
What you should know
Sand management: The regional soil conditions affect campsite comfort. One camper at Sea Pirate Campground noted, "Sites are sandy dirt—no gravel or concrete. This makes things extremely dirty whether it's dry or raining. Just my opinion, but a small investment in gravel would go a long way." Bringing outdoor mats and brooms helps manage sand tracking into tents and RVs.
Water utilities: Pressure and availability vary by campground and site location. A reviewer warned, "We had a problem with our site: extremely low water pressure, often below 20 PSI. It was so low at times, that we couldn't take showers or flush the toilet." Bringing extra water containers serves as good backup for dry camping.
Insect activity: The coastal forest environment supports significant insect populations. One camper shared, "The bugs were just unbearable day & night. You couldn't even sit outside by the fire. Even walking the dog was a challenge." Long-sleeved clothing and appropriate repellents are essential, especially during warmer months.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Most campgrounds with pools maintain strict hours and rules. One camper reported, "The heated swimming pool was large and the water crystal clear." Many campgrounds require adult supervision for children under 14 at pool facilities.
Playground accessibility: Facility quality varies across campgrounds. At Atsion Family Camp, campers appreciate that "In the area there are historic buildings and ruins you get to by 'off roading' on all dirt roads. Great places to kayak and Pineland Adventures right down the street has wonderful trips!" Most campgrounds post activity schedules at check-in.
Age-appropriate activities: Larger resorts schedule regular family events. A visitor noted, "We took a hayride around the park, which was fun. The arcade left a lot to be desired and could use some more things." Bringing additional games and activities helps during downtime between scheduled events.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra effort to properly position RVs. One visitor to Timberline Lake Camping Resort mentioned, "There was a dip in the site when backing in and our fifth wheel was bending to the point of rubbing the top of our truck when backing in." Bringing extra leveling blocks proves useful at most area campgrounds.
Dump station logistics: Limited facilities can create delays, especially during busy periods. A camper warned, "The worst was the dump station. It is just a little hole on the side of the road and the ONLY dump station for the 3 campgrounds! It was very unlevel and not easy to fully dump our tanks." Planning departure times outside peak checkout periods (typically 10am-noon) helps avoid long waits.
