Best Tent Camping near Blackwood, NJ

Wharton State Forest provides several tent-only camping options within 30 minutes of Blackwood, New Jersey. The forest's Pine Barrens ecosystem offers unique tent camping experiences at Goshen Pond, Batona, and Mullica River campgrounds. Goshen Pond features walk-in tent sites where campers park their vehicles and carry gear a short distance to their campsite, creating a more secluded experience away from vehicle noise. Batona Campground, situated along the 50-mile Batona Trail, offers primitive tent campsites in a pine-shaded environment. Lower Forge and Mullica River campgrounds provide backcountry tent camping accessible only by hiking or paddling in, making them ideal for those seeking more remote tent-only camping experiences.

Most tent campsites in the Wharton State Forest area feature basic amenities suited for primitive tent camping. The ground surface consists primarily of sandy soil and pine needles, which campers report is surprisingly comfortable for tent setup. Fire rings are standard at most sites, though picnic tables are not always provided. Water access varies by location, with most campgrounds offering hand pumps for drinking water during the April-October camping season. Vault toilets or outhouses are typically available, but shower facilities are rare. Campers should be prepared for ticks, which are prevalent throughout the Pine Barrens, and should practice proper food storage as bears are known to frequent some areas, particularly around Batona Campground.

Tent campers frequently mention the unique ecosystem of the Pine Barrens as a highlight of their experience. One visitor to Hawkins Bridge noted, "The ground is soft and comfortable to sleep on with few rocks, and there's plenty of kindling to gather for fires." Privacy levels vary significantly between campgrounds and by season. According to reviews, weekday camping typically offers more seclusion than weekends when sites can become crowded and occasionally rowdy. A camper at Goshen Pond appreciated that "sites are nicely in the trees" and that walk-in access meant "you don't hear cars coming and going past your site all the time." The dark-colored water in streams and rivers, caused by natural tannins from decaying vegetation, is safe for filtering despite its appearance and adds to the distinctive character of tent camping in this region.

Best Tent Sites Near Blackwood, New Jersey (25)

    1. Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest

    6 Reviews
    Hammonton, NJ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (609) 561-0024

    "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."

    "The boyfriend and I stayed for a weekend at one of the primitive tent sites. Our site was private and secluded. We had a great time."

    3. Batona — Wharton State Forest

    11 Reviews
    Chatsworth, NJ
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (609) 561-0024

    "Bears frequent this campground so be bear aware and practice proper food storage. "

    "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."

    4. Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park

    10 Reviews
    Gradyville, PA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 892-3900

    $57 / night

    "Terrific space for exploring"

    "well marked trails great for hiking. pet friendly! we love walking here with our dog. there are even a few great spots to get a small creek swim in! It also has a greag picnic area with grills."

    5. Mullica River — Wharton State Forest

    5 Reviews
    Hammonton, NJ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (609) 561-0024

    "This campground is hike-in or boat-in only, no car access. We camped here for one night on an overnight loop in Wharton State Forest. Wild blueberries abound during summer months!"

    "Enjoyed a site away from the crowds. Quiet. Peaceful. Place is huge with many campsites to choose from. Checking in is slow so come early."

    6. Fort Washington State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Ambler, PA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (215) 591-5250

    $28 - $72 / night

    "The give you firewood—-if you bring your own, leave with any left over."

    "It's almost 500 acres filled with trails, woods,and river. I usually go to the parking right off of Militia hill rd.and Skippack Pike intersection."

    7. Alverthorpe Private Park

    3 Reviews
    Jenkintown, PA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (215) 884-6538

    $1 - $100 / night

    8. Lower Forge Camp

    2 Reviews
    Hammonton, NJ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (609) 561-0024

    $5 / night

    "Looking for a place to escape without having to drive out of your way to get to? Lower forge is the place."

    9. Abbot Sawmill

    1 Review
    Hammonton, NJ
    22 miles

    "Close to the main roads but feels remote."

    10. Bodine Field — Wharton State Forest

    8 Reviews
    Egg Harbor City, NJ
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (609) 561-0024

    "You’re right next to the wading river/creek with that amazing cedar water. As well as a quick drive Harrisville Pond which mine as well be a lake."

    "Bodine Field is one of several camping locations within Wharton State Forest.

    I am writing this review over a year after our stay so forgive me if the details are lacking."

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Showing results 1-10 of 25 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Blackwood, NJ

668 Reviews of 25 Blackwood Campgrounds



Guide to Blackwood

Discover the beauty of tent camping near Blackwood, New Jersey, where lush forests and serene landscapes await outdoor enthusiasts. With a variety of campgrounds offering unique amenities and activities, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure.

Tent campers should check out Batona — Wharton State Forest

  • Experience the charm of the Batona — Wharton State Forest, a small campground located right on the Batona Trail, ideal for those who love hiking.
  • This campground features basic amenities like pit toilets and a seasonal water pump, making it a great choice for primitive camping.
  • Be prepared for a rustic experience, as the campground is known for its close-knit sites and the need for proper food storage due to bear activity.

Tips for tent camping near Blackwood

Some prices for tent camping range from $15 to $30

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Blackwood, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Blackwood, NJ is Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest with a 4.7-star rating from 6 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Blackwood, NJ?

TheDyrt.com has all 25 tent camping locations near Blackwood, NJ, with real photos and reviews from campers.