Best Tent Camping near Dennis, NJ
Tent campsites in the New Jersey Pine Barrens surround Dennis, with several options located within Wharton State Forest. Primitive tent camping can be found at Bodine Field Campground, approximately 25 miles northwest of Dennis, offering riverside sites with basic facilities. Goshen Pond Campground provides walk-in tent sites in a secluded forest setting, while Mullica River Campground offers a true backcountry experience accessible only by hiking or paddling.
Most tent campgrounds in this region feature sandy soil typical of the Pine Barrens ecosystem, making for comfortable tent placement but requiring sturdy stakes. Potable water is available at Bodine Field and Mullica River campgrounds through central pumps, though many sites lack direct water access. Campers should check seasonal availability as most Wharton State Forest campgrounds operate from April 1 through October 31. Primitive sites typically include fire rings but limited other amenities, with composting toilets or outhouses being the standard. A review mentioned, "The campground is open, it was closed because of covid in 2020," confirming Mullica River Campground has reopened.
The Pine Barrens tent sites offer distinctive camping experiences with dark cedar-colored waters and sandy terrain. Sites farther from roads provide deeper seclusion, though weekend crowding can occur at popular locations like Bodine Field. According to one visitor, "Very rustic and secluded, no showers/running water. Outhouses all around the campground." Ticks and chiggers are a common concern, particularly in warmer months, with several reviewers recommending regular checks while camping. Tent campers have river access at several sites, with the Wading River and Batsto River offering paddling opportunities. Several backcountry tent sites connect to the Batona Trail, providing extended hiking options for overnight backpackers who prefer primitive tent camping away from developed campgrounds.