The Pine Barrens near Atco feature highly acidic soil conditions that contribute to the characteristic dark tea-colored water in local rivers and streams. This coloration comes from natural tannins released by decaying vegetation rather than pollution or contamination. Winter temperatures in the Barrens can drop to 20°F (-6°C) at night, while summer highs often exceed 90°F (32°C) with high humidity levels.
What to do
Kayaking the Wading River: Access points near Hawkins Bridge Campground offer a unique water experience through the Pine Barrens. Paddlers can follow a 10-mile route downstream to Bodine Field Campground with manageable currents. "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," explains Thomas M.
Swimming at nearby lakes: Atsion Lake provides a welcome cooling option during hot summer months, located just 5 minutes from Goshen Pond. "It's also a 5 minute drive from Atsion lake, a great place for kayaking and swimming," notes Anna D. from Goshen Pond Campground.
Hiking the Batona Trail: This 53-mile trail connects multiple campgrounds through the Pine Barrens, offering relatively flat terrain suitable for all skill levels. "Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible," shares Meghan G. about Batona Campground, adding "Best part of this campground is trailheads begin directly from campsites."
What campers like
Secluded walk-in sites: Sites that require short walks from parking areas provide greater peace and fewer vehicle disturbances. "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," reports Elliott B. from Goshen Pond Campground.
Riverside camping access: The ability to launch watercraft directly from campsites ranks high among visitor preferences. "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," shares Anna D.
Midweek solitude: Weekday camping provides significantly more privacy and quiet, especially during spring and fall seasons. "During the off season is in and during the week, it's very peaceful and awesome place to be. During the weekend it's very populated and tends to be pretty noisy," explains Adeline M. about Bodine Field Campground.
What you should know
Sand conditions affect access: Loose sand roads require careful driving and limit vehicle types. "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle," notes Meghan G. about Batona Campground, adding "Sites 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 amenities at backcountry sites: Pack accordingly for primitive facilities, especially at hike-in locations. "NOTE: There are LOADS of ticks in this area. This campground is hike-in or boat-in only, no car access," warns Rebecca S. about Lower Forge Camp. "Site boundaries are pretty clearly marked, and each has a fire ring. Batsto River provides plenty of water for filtering--don't be weirded out by the brown color caused by tannins."
Water quality and availability varies: Water sources might require treatment or hauling in your supply. "Wading river has a nice flow. It's a dark black river from the tannins. Not much fishing," explains Thomas M. while noting that at Bodine Fields campground "the water is of poor quality."
Tips for camping with families
Choose drive-in accessible sites: Batona Campground provides easier setup for families with children and gear. "We stayed at a primative group campsite during Philly Questival. Each site was clearly labeled and flat with a fire pit. It definitely met our needs!" shares Jennesys A.
Visit ranger stations first: Stop at Batsto Office or Atsion Ranger Station for maps, permits, and current conditions before heading to more remote campsites. "The closest ranger station for checking in and purchasing wood is about a 20 minute drive," notes Brittany L. about Batona Campground.
Prepare for limited facilities: Bathroom options vary widely between campgrounds. "Clean bathrooms and nice grounds," reports Esther L. about Batona, while at Mullica River Campground Ragen W. mentions "a pump to get water and 2 outhouses (hold your breath)."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions for campers: Most Pine Barrens campgrounds cannot accommodate large RVs due to narrow access roads and site limitations. "Thankfully no RVs here. Very much enjoyed the stay," reports Meg F. about Batona Campground.
Consider Bodine Field for small trailers: This location offers more open terrain suitable for modest-sized campers. "Very open basically sandy field with a handful of trees in the middle, group sites available," explains Dan M., noting its riverside location and proximity to Harrisville Pond.
Pack extra water containers: Limited water hookups mean carrying additional storage for longer stays. "Fresh water pump is located at entrance to campground," explains Meghan G. about Batona, indicating the need to transport water from central locations to individual sites.
