Camping areas near Burlington, New Jersey sit within the unique Pine Barrens ecosystem, characterized by sandy soil, pitch pine forests, and cedar-stained waters. Located just 50 miles inland from the Atlantic Ocean, the region experiences mild spring and fall temperatures ideal for outdoor recreation. Spring campers should prepare for seasonal tick activity, particularly from April through June when nymph ticks become most active.
What to Do
Trail exploration at Wharton State Forest: Batona Campground offers direct trail access with multiple path options. "Best part of this campground is trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible," notes meghan G. at Batona — Wharton State Forest.
Archery practice: Bring your bow to Turkey Swamp Park where designated archery ranges provide target practice. "We go every year. It has everything the outdoorsman could ask for. Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels," recommends Patrick M. at Turkey Swamp Park.
Kayaking from campsites: Select waterfront sites at Goshen Pond for direct water access. "Our site was right next to the Mullica River, and had excellent views if you walked just a couple steps from the tent. We were able to put our kayaks in right next to the site which was very convenient," explains Anna D.
Bird watching: The observation deck at Fort Washington State Park offers excellent raptor viewing during migration seasons. "Come for Militia Hill, hawk watching, cross country ski, or disc golf, and the trails along the Wissahickon Creek," suggests Sue C.
What Campers Like
Pine Barrens seclusion: Batona Campground offers a true wilderness feel despite being near urban centers. "It is so easy to get lost in these woods and I LOVE IT! I grew up near the pine barrens and would camp here many times with friends. If you want off the beaten path and not close to anyone... this is IT!" shares Alyssa D.
Spacious wooded sites: Brendan Byrne State Forest provides well-spaced camping areas. "Nice and quiet, sites are spaced out enough to offer privacy. Good trees for hammocking! Plenty of room for a few tents at each site," explains Lindsay D. at Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Clean facilities: Turkey Swamp Park maintains their bathhouses and common areas regularly. "The bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained. There is pretty lake with good fishing and they sell bait at the Ranger office," notes Katheryn N.
Seasonal activities: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers programmed events throughout camping season. "They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget. The place is so clean including the bathrooms. Everyone we came in contact with staff wise was so friendly," says Nicole S. at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA.
What You Should Know
Sand challenges: Sandy soil conditions affect most Pine Barrens campgrounds. "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle," explains meghan G. about Batona Campground.
Tick precautions needed: Prepare for tick encounters in wooded areas, especially during spring and summer. "I was so excited when we got here. The sites are spacious and it's really beautiful. But by the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2," warns LAURA Y. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Fire restrictions: Observe campfire timing rules at Brendan Byrne State Forest. "Only weird rule I saw was that fires can only go from 6pm till 7am which was odd but wasn't a deal breaker," notes Dorian P.
Campsite maintenance varies: Some campgrounds have more consistent upkeep than others. "There was a bag tied to a tree with someone's trash in it. Speaking of trash, there was a lot of little bits scattered throughout the site," reports Steve about Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest.
Tips for Camping with Families
Try water activities: Many campgrounds offer multiple water recreation options. "Lake, mini golf, golf cart rental, huge pool, snack stand, small store packed with food & everything you could possibly need for camping," describes Jesse C. about Timberland Lake Campground.
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Turkey Swamp Park includes well-maintained play areas. "Site came with fire pit, large picnic bench, and lamp stand. Plenty of parking space. Good tree coverage. Only one bathroom, bit of a walk but clean and many amenities available within," notes Graham D.
Consider Halloween weekends: Several campgrounds offer special fall programming. "We LOVE camping here in the fall!! They do their own haunted walk through that is just awesome! Everyone decorates. They have a dj every Saturday! Plenty of activities for the kids," shares Jessica D. at Timberland Lake Campground.
Book pet-friendly sites in advance: For families camping with dogs, reserve early. "Went in April. Allows dogs after a deposit. Must purchase their firewood. Good bathrooms/showers. Great location for hitting the 4x4 trails," explains Sean W. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Tips from RVers
Water hose preparation: Some campgrounds require longer hoses to reach spigots. "Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers," advises Shawn about Turkey Swamp Park.
Road conditions vary: Pine Barrens campgrounds often have unpaved access roads. "Single car only, with a good amount of spots to pull off if you find your self head to head with another vehicle. Pretty bumpy road," warns Brianna P. about Goshen Pond.
Site surfaces differ: Be prepared for various ground conditions when setting up. "Sand for all pull-throughs. They do offer full hookups that include cable if you have the outdoor wire. Plenty of activities for kids with park area and pool," reports Robyn W.
