Wharton State Forest lies in the heart of New Jersey's Pine Barrens, a unique ecosystem with sandy soil and acidic water. The forest spans over 120,000 acres with campsites scattered throughout this vast pine and oak woodland. Campers encounter a relatively flat terrain with elevations rarely exceeding 200 feet above sea level, creating accessible camping conditions for most visitors regardless of physical ability.
What to do
Fishing spots: The Mullica River at Wharton State Forest offers excellent fishing opportunities. "Me and my girlfriends first camping trip so we're both kinda new to the whole thing. This place was great for beginners. Had plenty of space at the campsite, picnic table and fire pit. Lots to do in the surrounding area too!" notes Dan K.
Kayaking adventures: Launch directly from your campsite at Goshen Pond. "Campsite G014 was awesome! It was a great location, closest site to the water with beautiful views. Super convenient if you're a Kayaker, you can launch right off that spot," shares Brianna P.
Nature trails: The Batona Trail offers multiple access points throughout the forest. "We tent camped at Atsion in 2015: had flush toilets and was close to the checkin station/store as well as the beach on the lake. Some sites were right on the water and the sites were very big," reports Dina S.
Off-road exploration: Brendan Byrne State Forest provides trails for off-road vehicles. "Went in April. Allows dogs after a deposit. Must purchase their firewood. Good bathrooms/showers. Great location for hitting the 4x4 trails," says Sean W.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campsites at Wharton State Forest provide ample room for multiple tents. "The campside was clean, spacious, includes the firepit and the table. While we were surrounded by other campers, we enjoyed how private it was!!!" reports Olga G.
River tubing: Wading Pines Camping Resort offers a unique water experience. "We did have a great time tubing on the river. Have someone drop you off at Hawkins Bridge and float down to the campground. A little over 2 hour ride," advises Stacy D.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers. "The bathrooms were immaculate compared to most campgrounds," says Rae M. about Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA.
Primitive camping options: For those seeking seclusion, certain campgrounds offer more remote sites. "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," shares Ashley R. about her experience at Goshen Pond.
What you should know
Tick prevention: The Pine Barrens has a significant tick population, especially in warmer months. "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.
Water quality: Some campgrounds have mineral-rich water. "Bathrooms were clean but most of the faucets on the sinks were broken. The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing," notes Frank J. about Parvin State Park.
Sandy roads: Access to some sites requires driving on sandy terrain. "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle," explains Meghan G. about Batona Campground.
Varying amenities: Facilities differ significantly between state parks and private campgrounds. "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," describes Dan M.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Hospitality Creek Campground offers numerous organized events. "In season tons of hourly activities for the kids. 1 thing i dont like is tge excessively high prices. i think all sites should be for 2 adults and 2-3 kids," mentions Denise P.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "Family friendly with tons of kid activities/themes. Easy roads for bike riding and beautiful views of the lake," says Lauren C.
Water recreation: Swimming areas provide supervised water fun. "Staff was great. Plenty of things to do for the kids. We love the lake side campsites," reports Arnold M.
Seasonal considerations: Plan family trips between late spring and early fall for best swimming conditions. "We visited MANY campgrounds in Del. Pa. and N.J. looking for a place to stay seasonally. Once we went to Hospitality Creek, I knew we found our home. The people, activites, roomy sites, pools, beautiful lake for swimming and boating/fishing, snack bar with breakfast and full lunch/dinner menu made it such an easy choice," explains Diane D.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For pet friendly camping near Gibbsboro, New Jersey, choose sites with adequate shade. "Our site was roomy with plenty of mature shade trees," shares Matt S. about Jellystone Park South Jersey.
Hookup planning: Bring extra hoses for water connections. "The water hookups are shared every other site (at least in the Fence Loop). I was lucky my 75' hose barely reached the distance needed. Be sure to bring extra hoses," advises Matt S. about Old Cedar Campground.
Arrival timing: Many campgrounds offer streamlined check-in processes. "Like more and more campgrounds, they offered virtual check-in and payment online. This meant that we were handed a welcome packet at the front gate and sent on our way without delays for paperwork or payments," notes Matt S.
Navigation challenges: Access roads to some campgrounds require careful driving. "The roads and turns were tight for our 36' motorhome, but manageable," explains Matt S. about his experience navigating to a lakefront site.
Legend
