Tent campsites near Beachwood, New Jersey include both frontcountry and backcountry options within the Pine Barrens ecosystem. The region features acidic soil with pH levels between 3.8 and 4.5, creating the characteristic pine forest environment with minimal underbrush. Summer temperatures average 85°F while spring and fall camping often sees temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night.
What to do
Kayaking on Wading River: Paddlers can access the Wading River from Hawkins Bridge — Wharton State Forest for day trips or multi-day excursions. "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," notes one visitor who completed a 14-mile paddling trip over two days.
Hiking the Batona Trail: The 50-mile trail connects multiple camping areas and passes through Batona — Wharton State Forest. A camper mentions, "The Batona Campground is in the northern area of the Wharton State Forest and is a bit removed from most trails and other campgrounds in the park...the Batona trail runs through the campground."
Swimming at Atsion Lake: Located 5 minutes from Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest, Atsion Lake offers designated swimming areas during summer months. One camper notes it's "a great place for kayaking and swimming" and provides a welcome respite during hotter camping days.
What campers like
Walk-in tent sites: Many campers appreciate the noise reduction at tent camping areas without vehicle access. At Goshen Pond, a camper explains, "I like campgrounds which have you park off and walk in to your site. There is more foot traffic, but you don't hear as many cars coming and going and driving past your site all the time."
Wilderness solitude: The Lower Forge Camp tent sites require either a 5-mile hike from Atsion or 7-mile hike from Batsto, creating true backcountry camping. One reviewer described it as a "Great getaway from the everyday rat race" and noted it's "great for beginners who you're trying to break into backpacking."
Family-friendly activities: Tent campers with children find Tip Tam Camping Resort offers structured recreation. "The place was fun.. they have peddle cars and playgrounds. They deliver wood to your site by the truck full! Nice little store and staff are all friendly," writes one reviewer.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent sites in the Pine Barrens have basic amenities only. At Bodine Field — Wharton State Forest, a camper notes: "Potable water is available along with a couple Porta potties. Creek access, if you wanted to go kayaking."
Seasonal considerations: Water availability changes seasonally at many campgrounds. One visitor to Batona Campground reports: "A water pump provides fresh water but is not available in the winter. There's at least two pit toilets in the campground - don't expect luxury."
Tick awareness: Multiple reviewers warn about ticks in the Pine Barrens. A Goshen Pond camper specifically mentions "Lots of bugs (ticks)" while another at Mullica River Camp warns "NOTE: There are LOADS of ticks in this area."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Lower Forge provides an entry point to wilderness camping for families with older children. "It's one of my personal favorites to disappear for a weekend and great for beginners who you're trying to break into backpacking," writes a regular visitor.
Noise considerations: Campgrounds can get loud, especially on weekends. One Tip Tam visitor warns, "The only downside I saw was people here are up way to early. 7am place was already loud. 7:45am a propane truck pulled in the full the propane and was extremely loud. 8am people with leaf blowers and chopping wood. Don't expect to sleep past 7:30am."
Water activities: Families with children should consider sites near swimming areas during summer months. The Mullica River Campground provides access to the river, while a visitor to Goshen Pond notes, "It's also a 5 minute drive from Atsion lake, a great place for kayaking and swimming."
Tips from RVers
Sand challenges: Pine Barrens roads can be difficult for larger RVs to navigate. A Batona Campground visitor cautions, "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle. Site are suitable for tents or small campers. The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit."
Limited hookups: Most tent camping areas near Beachwood offer no hookups. According to a camper at Mullica River, "This campground is hike-in or boat-in only, no car access," making it unsuitable for RVs of any size.
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate only from April through October. At Batona Campground, one visitor notes the water pump "is not available in the winter," which affects RV campers planning shoulder-season visits.
