Tent camping near Gibbsboro, New Jersey offers direct access to the Pine Barrens region, characterized by coastal plain forests with sandy soils and acidic water bodies. The area maintains relatively mild temperatures most of the year but can reach 90°F in summer months with high humidity. Sites throughout Wharton State Forest sit at low elevations around 100 feet above sea level, making terrain easy to navigate for most campers.
What to do
Kayaking on local waterways: At Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest, campers can put in directly from their sites. "Our site was right next to the Mullica River, and had excellent views if you walked just a couple steps from the tent. We were able to put our kayaks in right next to the site which was very convenient," notes one visitor. Atsion Lake is also nearby for additional paddling.
Explore off-road trails: Sandy forest roads throughout the area accommodate various off-road activities. "Great sites, great trails, lots of hiking and off road trails for dirt bike/atv/trucks. Pretty good boating/fishing," reports a camper who visited Goshen Pond.
Take a multi-day hiking journey: For experienced hikers, Lower Forge Camp offers a challenging destination. "Looking for a place to escape without having to drive out of your way to get to? Lower forge is the place... great for beginners who you're trying to break into backpacking," explains one review, noting the 5+ mile hike required to reach this remote site.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy available at select locations. At Goshen Pond, one camper shares, "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."
Walk-in camping experience: Batona — Wharton State Forest provides a more immersive camping experience. "The Batona Campground is in the northern area of the Wharton State Forest and is a bit removed from most trails and other campgrounds in the park... Each campsite includes a fire pit with a grate (no picnic tables)," explains a visitor.
Seasonal wildlife observation: The area hosts diverse wildlife throughout the year. One camper at Batona notes, "It is so easy to get lost in these woods and I LOVE IT! I grew up near the pine barrens and would camp here many times with friends. If you want off the beaten path and not close to anyone... this is IT!"
What you should know
Insect concerns: Ticks and other biting insects are frequently mentioned in reviews. A visitor to Bodine Field — Wharton State Forest warns, "Very rustic and secluded, no showers/running water. Outhouses all around the campground. Most of the campsites are kind of on top of each other besides a few and most of the group sites."
Sandy roads and access: Navigating to campsites requires preparation. The roads into many areas feature loose sand. As one camper notes about Batona, "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle."
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds offer only basic amenities. "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," explains a camper about Batona. At Bodine Field, facilities are similarly sparse: "Very rustic and secluded, no showers/running water. Outhouses all around the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Best times to visit: For families, weekdays often provide a quieter experience. One camper shares about Mullica River — Wharton State Forest: "Enjoyed a site away from the crowds. Quiet. Peaceful. Place is huge with many campsites to choose from. Checking in is slow so come early."
Site selection for groups: Some campgrounds work better for family gatherings. At Bodine Field, a reviewer notes it's "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."
Consider difficulty level for young hikers: While backcountry camping is available, assess whether children can handle the distance. A camper at Mullica River campground shares: "we stayed at the Mullica River camp ground it is a hike or boat in only camp ground has a pump to get water and 2 outhouses (hold your breath) start hike kayak trip at 206 hike 6 miles in camp then hike kayak out 5 miles to batsto."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most tent camping near Gibbsboro restricts larger vehicles. At Batona campground, one camper advises: "Sites are suitable for tents or small campers. The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit."
Seasonal restrictions: Plan your camping season carefully. Most Wharton State Forest campgrounds, including Bodine Field, operate "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."
Water and waste management: RV amenities are extremely limited. At Abbot Sawmill, a simple review notes it's "Close to the main roads but feels remote," but like other campgrounds in the area, offers no hookups, no dump stations, and limited facilities.
