The Pine Barrens region around Runnemede offers sandy soil typical of New Jersey's coastal plain, with elevations ranging from 50 to 200 feet above sea level. This low-lying topography creates ideal tent camping conditions throughout spring and fall when temperatures average 60-75°F during the day. The region's acidic soil conditions contribute to the characteristic tea-colored streams and support unique plant communities not found elsewhere in the Mid-Atlantic.
What to do
Hiking the Batona Trail: The 50-mile Batona Trail connects multiple campgrounds in Wharton State Forest, allowing for multi-day backpacking trips. "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," notes one visitor to Batona Campground. For shorter excursions, "Best part of this campground is trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible."
Paddling opportunities: Waterways near Runnemede provide excellent kayaking and canoeing. At Tinicum Island, a camper notes it's "A great place to stay if you have a watercraft." For those staying at Goshen Pond in Wharton State Forest, one camper appreciated that "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."
Bird watching: Spring and fall migrations bring diverse bird species to the region. At Fort Washington State Park, visitors can view "the beautiful raptors that migrate here on a seasonal basis in both the Spring and Autumn" from the observation deck. Bird species include "Dark-eyed Junco, Common Loon, Blue Heron, Osprey, Cooper's Hawk, Bald Eagles, Great Horned & Barn Owls."
What campers like
Sandy camping surfaces: The Pine Barrens' characteristic sandy soil creates natural tent pads. At Mullica River Campground, "Wild blueberries abound during summer months! Individual sites are closely packed, which was not a problem as we were the only ones there." Another camper mentioned, "Batsto River provides plenty of water for filtering—don't be weirded out by the brown color caused by tannins."
Quiet weekday camping: Many campgrounds near Runnemede experience significantly lower traffic Monday through Thursday. A visitor to Batona Campground reported, "While the individual campsites appear to be somewhat close together and the campground area is very open, there were few other campers during our visit, and privacy was not an issue." Another camper noted this campground "can get busy (and rowdy) on weekends."
Accessible wilderness: Despite proximity to urban areas, many sites offer surprising seclusion. One camper at Batona Campground wrote, "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
Limited facilities: Most tent sites near Runnemede have minimal amenities. A camper at Lower Forge Camp explains, "Looking for a place to escape without having to drive out of your way to get to? Lower forge is the place. One of the few places in New Jersey you have to backpack into with access from either (Atsion 5+ miles in) or Batsto (7 miles)."
Wildlife concerns: Ticks and bears require proper precautions. A visitor to Goshen Pond warned, "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." At Batona Campground, a camper noted "Bears frequent this campground so be bear aware and practice proper food storage."
Water conditions: Stream water requires filtering and often appears brown. At Mullica River Campground, a camper advised, "Batsto River provides plenty of water for filtering—don't be weirded out by the brown color caused by tannins. River access at higher-numbered sites is marshy, water flow and quantity is more substantial downstream from the lower-numbered sites."
Tips for camping with families
Choose walk-in sites for quieter experience: Families often prefer sites away from vehicle traffic. At Goshen Pond, a visitor appreciated that "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." Another camper reported this campground has "Great secluded sites available. There are also spots near the camp store and river that are more 'centrally' located if that's what you're after."
Pack for ticks and insects: Parents should bring proper repellents and conduct regular tick checks. A Batona Trail camper mentioned "There are LOADS of ticks in this area," while another at Goshen Pond warned specifically about "chiggers and ticks" requiring frequent checks.
Consider group camping options: Several parks offer designated group sites. At Ridley Creek State Park, "This place is great for first time campers. I go camping here almost every year and they have a nice open field with two sites and two fire pits. They also have a tone of trails to hike on." Another reviewer clarified, "Love Ridley and their trails. However, there is only group tenting here."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most campgrounds near Runnemede primarily accommodate tent camping. At Batona Campground, "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." Another camper warned that "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle."
Consider day use facilities: RVers may find better options using tent sites while parking at day-use areas. At Evansburg State Park, "this hidden gem of a campground is beautiful. There is plenty of hiking trails. Only downside is having to haul gear by foot to the campsite. Some are further than others." However, it provides options for "hiking, horseback riding, hunting and fishing."
Weather and seasonal considerations: RV access varies significantly with weather conditions. At Abbott Sawmill, a visitor noted it's "Close to the main roads but feels remote," making it more accessible during wet conditions when sand roads in other areas become difficult to navigate.
