Camping options near Egg Harbor City offer easy access to the New Jersey Pine Barrens, a distinctive ecosystem covering over 1.1 million acres with sandy, acidic soil and towering pine forests. The region maintains cooler temperatures than coastal areas during summer months, with sandy trails and dark water rivers stained by natural tannins from fallen pine needles. Most campgrounds in the area are situated within 20 minutes of Egg Harbor City.
What to do
Kayaking on Wading River: Launch directly from campsites at Wharton State Forest for water adventures. "We started Friday night camping at Hawkins Bridge campground. This is a primitive campsite near the river. We put in the water the next day and travel 10 miles to Bodine Fields campground," shares Thomas M. about his Hawkins Bridge — Wharton State Forest experience.
Hiking pine forest trails: Explore the extensive trail system throughout Wharton State Forest. "There are little trails around the campsite too. All in all a decent place, solid facilities, and convenient," notes Steve about Atsion Family Camp, located about 15 miles from Egg Harbor City.
Lake swimming and activities: Utilize recreation areas with designated swimming spots. "The swimming lake was beautiful. We biked the trails, and hiked others that didn't allow bikes," explains Anne H. from her stay at Belleplain State Forest, about 30 minutes south of Egg Harbor City.
What campers like
Secluded Pine Barrens camping: Many sites offer true forest immersion. "Wharton Forest has several campgrounds. We wanted a more rustic experience and tent camped at Bodine campground. Our tent has a full view of the sky and at night it was like a planetarium as we admired the sky from our cots," describes Dina S. from her time at Atsion Family Camp.
Sandy, comfortable terrain: The Pine Barrens' unique soil conditions create comfortable sleeping surfaces. "The ground is soft and comfortable to sleep on (NOT rocky at all, like almost weird how few rocks there are). It also means that there is plenty of kindling to gather for fires," explains Hallie M. about Hawkins Bridge campground.
Year-round accessibility: Many campgrounds remain open throughout the year. "Camped here many of times. Very Decent Camp in the Pine Barrens, Lots of potable water hydrants around the campground so not far of a walk to fill any water needs you may have," reports Dan M. about his experiences at Brendan Byrne State Forest.
What you should know
Variable water quality: Some campground water systems may have limitations. "New ownership has improved a lot of previous criticisms (water quality, staff friendliness). The bathrooms still are in need of a remodel," notes Derrick S. about Wading Pines Camping Resort.
Insects can be intense: The Pine Barrens ecosystem supports large insect populations. "Bring tons of deet-biting flies unbearable. Even walking the dog was a challenge. I have been camping for years and I have never experienced mosquitoes & flys like this," warns Happy Camper L. about their experience at Sea Pirate Campground.
Limited cell service: Connectivity remains spotty throughout the region. "Virtually NO cell service with AT&T, TMobile or Verizon. AT&T we the better of the 3. Our Winegard/Gateway give us no internet which we normally get," reports Anne H. about Belleplain State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with organized activities: Many locations offer scheduled events. "The campground gave more of a Mobil home park feel and the park itself was a bit dated. But it was very quiet and the people were friendly. It does have a nice playground for the little kids," notes Yamileth K. about Mays Landing Resort.
Water safety awareness: Monitor children near water features. "The tent loop is surrounded by water on 3 sides. There is no safety fence. The water is mostly standing water so expect mosquitoes," advises Danielle S. about Mays Landing Resort.
Plan for bathroom accessibility: Consider site location relative to facilities. "We purposely booked in 105 due to the proximity. The other bathrooms in the CCC were a good walk, and pretty run down," shares Anne H. about her Belleplain State Forest experience.
Tips for RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require additional equipment for proper leveling. "We had a problem with our site: extremely low water pressure, often below 20 PSI. It was so low at times, that we couldn't take showers or flush the toilet," warns Matt S. about his stay at Sea Pirate Campground.
Limited dump stations: Plan ahead for departure day procedures. "The worst was the dump station. It is just a little hole on the side of the road and the ONLY dump station for the 3 campgrounds! It was very unlevel and not easy to fully dump our tanks," cautions Anne H. about her Belleplain State Forest experience.
Yurt camping alternatives: For those seeking Egg Harbor City, New Jersey yurt camping without an RV, several options exist. "The campground is now known as Atlantic Shore Pines. This place is very close to Bass River State Park with lots of hiking and outdoor activities. The site we had was a pull through and very spacious," shares Dave B. about Atlantic Shore Pines Campground, which offers yurt accommodations about 15 minutes from Egg Harbor City.
