Tent camping near Elmer, New Jersey centers primarily on the sandy soils of the New Jersey Pine Barrens ecosystem. The region averages only 100 feet above sea level with minimal elevation changes, creating accessible hiking conditions throughout most campgrounds. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity levels, while spring and fall camping seasons offer more moderate conditions with nighttime temperatures that can drop below 50°F.
What to do
River paddling access: 5-minute drive to Harrisville Pond from Bodine Field — Wharton State Forest offers excellent fishing opportunities. One camper notes, "You're right next to the wading river/creek with that amazing cedar water. As well as a quick drive Harrisville Pond which mine as well be a lake. Good fishing for pickerel as well as a decent trail that goes around the entire pond."
Backpacking adventures: 5-7 mile trek required to reach Lower Forge Camp from either direction. "Looking for a place to escape without having to drive out of your way to get to? Lower forge is the place. One if the few places in New Jersey you have to backpack into with access from either (Atsion 5+ miles in) or Batsto (7 miles) located right on the Basto River you're even able to boat in," explains one visitor.
Multi-day hiking: 50-mile trail accessible directly from Batona — Wharton State Forest campsites. "Best part about the campground is that it's right on the 50 mile Batona Trail so it's a great stop-over assuming you've made reservations," reports one hiker, while another adds, "Best part of this campground is trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Most highly rated at Blackbird State Forest Campground where separation is notable. "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return," writes one camper. Another visitor confirms, "The camp sites are spaced out a good amount so each site has good privacy."
Water recreation proximity: Direct river access at multiple sites allows for easy kayak launching. At Bodine Field, one camper noted the location is "Very open basically sandy field with a handful of trees in the middle, group sites available. You're right next to the wading river/creek with that amazing cedar water."
Campsite layout and amenities: Practical setups with basic necessities vary by location. "Each campsite includes a fire pit with a grate (no picnic tables). There are two outhouses and one water source within the campground. The entire campground is fairly shaded by the pines, and the ground is flat throughout," notes a Batona camper.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds and noise levels: Weekends bring significant visitor increases to most Pine Barrens campsites. At Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest, one visitor observed, "Our site was very quiet, but a lot of the sites are close together without any barriers, so if the campground got crowded it wouldn't be very private." Similarly, at Bodine Field, "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."
Sandy access roads: Vehicle considerations important for tent camping at Elmer area campgrounds. "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle," reports a Batona visitor. Another camper adds, "The road into the campground is sand."
Wildlife and pest concerns: Ticks, mosquitoes, and occasionally bears require preparation. "LOTS of ticks in this area," warns one Lower Forge camper, while at Batona Campground visitors are advised, "Bears frequent this campground so be bear aware and practice proper food storage."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for ease of access: Choose tent sites with minimal gear-carrying distance. Goshen Pond offers, "It's only a one minute walk from the parking area to the site. Our site was right next to the Mullica River, and had excellent views if you walked just a couple steps from the tent."
Group-friendly locations: Abbot Sawmill provides dedicated spaces for family gatherings. "Great for groups. Close to the main roads but feels remote," notes one camper, making it suitable for tent camping near Elmer with children.
Beginner-friendly options: First-time campers find certain sites more accommodating. At Ridley Creek State Park, "This place is great for first time campers. I go camping here almost every year and they a nice open field with two sites and two fire pits. They also have a tone of trails to hike on."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Limited options for larger RVs throughout Pine Barrens campgrounds. "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," cautions a Batona visitor.
Hookup availability: Primarily primitive camping with minimal services for RVs. At most Wharton State Forest locations, the sandy roads and lack of hookups mean tent camping remains the primary accommodation type.
Road condition awareness: Sandy forest roads present challenges for RVs throughout the region. "The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined," notes one camper about Batona Campground, while others mention the mile-long sandy access road requires careful navigation.
