Tent camping near Columbus, New Jersey centers around the Pine Barrens region, where sandy soil creates unique drainage conditions affecting campsite quality. Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, with summer days reaching 90°F and dropping to 60°F at night. Most tent sites in this area sit on flat terrain with scattered pine trees providing partial shade, though many areas remain exposed during peak afternoon heat.
What to do
Hiking the trails: Access the 3.5 miles of trails at Fort Washington State Park, where you can spot diverse bird species at the observation deck. "Over 3.5 miles of trails leading to Hawk Watch observation decks, which birders will marvel at and the rest of us will simply appreciate the vista," notes Stuart K.
Water activities: Paddle in the crystal-clear water at Round Valley State Park, which features a 2,350-acre reservoir that's 180 feet deep. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," shares James R.
Historical exploration: Visit nearby Washington Crossing State Park to learn about Revolutionary War history. "It's a quaint historical area kept green and nature friendly. Good for biking and dog walking," mentions Curran S. The park hosts an annual reenactment of Washington's troops crossing the Delaware River each December.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Campers at Goshen Pond Campground appreciate the isolation. "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," writes Ashley R. Sites are separated by natural vegetation, providing a sense of solitude even when the campground isn't empty.
Water access: Many tent sites at Batona Campground back up to creeks and small waterways. "The back of the campground backs up to a beautiful creek/swamp, and the Batona trail runs through the campground," explains Brittany L. This provides both scenic views and practical water access for filtering.
Stargazing opportunities: The Pine Barrens offer minimal light pollution, allowing for excellent night sky viewing. "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!" says Jennesys A. about her Batona Campground experience.
What you should know
Tick and chigger awareness: Insects are prevalent throughout tent camping areas. "Great sites, great trails, lots of hiking and off-road trails for dirt bike/atv/trucks. Pretty good boating/fishing. Just gotta check often for chiggers and ticks," warns Eldad K. about Goshen Pond Campground.
Water filtration needs: Most primitive sites require bringing or filtering water. "I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw to ensure they don't get sick," advises Stuart K. about Round Valley State Park.
Toilet facilities: Primitive toilet facilities are standard at most tent camping areas. "Bathrooms are primitive and non-flush, so BYOTP as it's campground chic here, not hotel lobby convenient," notes Stuart K. about Fort Washington State Park. The Batona Campground has "two outhouses and one water source within the campground," according to Brittany L.
Tips for camping with families
Plan activities for early risers: Quiet hours end early at some campgrounds. At Tip Tam Camping Resort, "The only downside I saw was people here are up way too early. 7am place was already loud. 7:45am a propane truck pulled in to fill the propane and was extremely loud. 8am people with leaf blowers and chopping wood. Don't expect to sleep past 7:30am," warns Bill V.
Bring entertainment: Some campgrounds offer child-friendly amenities. "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," shares Jenn M. about Tip Tam Camping Resort.
Consider accessibility: Some campsites require significant hiking. For Round Valley State Park, "Some of the sites are at least 3 miles to get to unless you take a boat across. Beautiful peaceful and primitive," explains Janine W. This distance may be challenging for younger children or those carrying extensive camping gear.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive camping areas can be challenging. At Bodine Field Campground, "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle," notes Meghan G.
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds limit RV size due to narrow access roads. "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," continues Meghan G. about Bodine Field Campground.
Limited hookup options: Full hookups are rare at state park campgrounds near Columbus. Most sites offer fire rings and basic amenities only. "Each campsite is a cleared area with a fire pit," describes Meghan G., highlighting the primitive nature of most camping near Columbus, New Jersey.
