Bass River State Forest in New Jersey features camping facilities set amid 29,000 acres of pine forest with sites situated on sandy ground. The forest offers year-round camping options with spacious sites that can accommodate tents, RVs, and cabins. Most sites are set back with natural buffers providing privacy from neighboring campers.
What to do
Canoeing and kayaking: At Bass River State Forest, visitors can rent boats for water activities. "We walked and explored, kayaked, and sang by the fire. The camp sites have plenty of room for the kids to run around and set up there own areas," notes Matthew H. The lake provides a calm surface for paddling.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer fishing access within walking distance of campsites. One visitor at Thousand Trails Chestnut Lake shares: "Lake has plenty of fish, Very nice family room and the pool is just beautiful." The campground's lakefront setting provides convenient fishing spots.
Hiking trails: Explore the natural landscape on established trails. A recent visitor noted, "They had canoe and kayak rentals at the lake. Some very easy trails for kids." Many trails connect camping areas to scenic spots and are rated for beginning hikers.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms. "The campground was clean and well maintained. It's very close to civilization but you get the camping experience," says Gennifer K. about her stay at Bass River State Forest.
Privacy between sites: Baker's Acres Campground receives praise for site spacing. "Clean, private wooded sites. Clean bathhouse, friendly staff. The pool was clean," reports Sharon S. Another camper describes it as "Quaint and rustic, heavily wooded. Makes you feel like your camping, not just lined up next to a bunch of campers."
Proximity to beaches: Whippoorwill Campground provides convenient beach access. "Close to LBI and a short drive to Smithville," notes one reviewer. Another mentions it's "Close to beaches and lots to do in the area." Most campgrounds are within 30 minutes of ocean beaches.
What you should know
Site conditions: Many campgrounds have sandy sites typical of the Pine Barrens region. "Sites are level and somewhat sandy (You're in the Pine Barrens, it should be expected)," explains a reviewer. Prepare to deal with sand tracking into tents and RVs.
Insects: Ticks and mosquitoes can be problematic, especially in warmer months. "There were a lot of ticks when we stayed in May so keep that in mind," warns one visitor. Another camper at Sea Pirate Campground notes: "The bugs were just unbearable day & night. You couldn't even sit outside by the fire."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. The high season brings more crowds and activities but also higher rates. Some facilities offer discounted shoulder season rates with fewer amenities available.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with organized activities: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Brigantine offer scheduled events. "We enjoyed the scavenger hunt and Saturday night entertainment. There were very few golf carts and all the cars drove cautiously. We felt our daughter was safe to ride her bike," shares one family at Baker's Acres.
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