Hammonton, New Jersey sits within the unique Pine Barrens ecosystem, where sandy acidic soil creates a distinctive landscape of pine forests and tea-colored streams. The area contains over 1.1 million acres of preserved woodland with multiple campgrounds scattered throughout the region. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer more comfortable camping conditions with temperatures ranging from 55-75°F.
What to do
Water activities at Wading River: The Wading River provides excellent paddling opportunities at Wading Pines Camping Resort. "You can tube down the river from one end of camp to the other," explains one camper. For longer trips, "Have someone drop you off at Hawkins Bridge and float down to the campground. A little over 2 hour ride."
Historic site exploration: Visit Batsto Village historical grounds, approximately 15 minutes from many campgrounds in the area. At Atsion Family Camp, you'll find "historic buildings and ruins you get to by 'off roading' on all dirt roads," according to one reviewer. Another mentions "Pineland Adventures right down the street has wonderful trips!"
Pine Barrens hiking: The Batona Trail runs through multiple campgrounds including Batona Campground. A camper notes, "The Batona trail runs through the campground," making it easy to access different segments. Another visitor appreciates how "trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible."
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: At Goshen Pond, campers appreciate waterfront access. One reviewer described their site as "closest site to the water with beautiful views. Super convenient if you're a Kayaker, you can launch right off that spot." Another noted the campground is "really liked... right off the water."
Spacious campsites: Sites at Bass River State Forest are notably large. One camper described, "each site is very large, very clean and well maintained," while another noted "the sites are a great size and many are set back enough that you have privacy." Sites typically include fire rings and ample space for multiple tents.
Pine Barrens atmosphere: The unique ecology creates distinctive camping conditions. At Brendan Byrne State Forest, campers value being "far away from traffic noise. You can't hear any cars or any other noise from civilization at all." Another appreciates the "smells, the sounds, the wildlife" and notes "the ground is always very soft and sandy, which makes for comfortable sleeping."
What you should know
Tick prevention essential: Ticks are extremely prevalent throughout the Pine Barrens. At Godfrey Bridge, campers report serious issues: "we counted over 100 Lone Star ticks that had either attached to us or our dogs, or were crawling on us." Even with protection, visitors should be vigilant: "Even with 100% deet spray, we still had at least 2 on each person."
Bathroom facilities vary: Facility quality differs dramatically between campgrounds. While some offer full showers and flush toilets, others provide only basic pit toilets. At Lower Forge Campground, expect "primitive, pet-friendly, hike-in sites" with minimal facilities. In contrast, Brendan Byrne offers "clean bathrooms to take a shower after your adventures. Well...pretty clean by camping standards."
Noise levels: Some campgrounds experience noise issues from nearby facilities. At Godfrey Bridge, reviewers warn about "the RV 'resort' very close by, Very loud music at night from about 8-11." Another camper explains: "Wading Pines has live music (a terrible cover band) that they blast from 7 until 11-12 pm that echoes through the park."
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly sites: Hospitality Creek Campground offers numerous family amenities. One visitor reports: "Old-fashioned, friendly, amenity filled campground! The people, activities, roomy sites, pools, beautiful lake for swimming and boating/fishing, snack bar with breakfast and full lunch/dinner menu." Another adds there are "tons of hourly activities for the kids."
Swimming locations: Not all water areas are suitable for swimming. While Atsion has a designated beach area with lifeguards during summer months, Goshen Pond is "very shallow and swampy, so it doesn't make for good swimming." A better option is Bass River State Forest where "canoe and kayak rentals at the lake" are available alongside swimming areas.
Bug protection for children: Children need extra protection from insects. One camper advises: "Summer camping requires attention to ticks and hot sand that can burn paws." Another suggests planning visits during "cooler spring and fall months" which offer more comfortable conditions with fewer insects for families.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many Pine Barrens campgrounds have limited access for larger RVs. At Batona Campground, "The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit." However, sites at Brendan Byrne State Forest are more accommodating with "sites spaced out enough to offer privacy" while still providing room for RVs.
Sandy roads: The Pine Barrens' sandy soil creates challenging driving conditions. One camper at Goshen warns "Roads into the place are single car only, with a good amount of spots to pull off if you find yourself head to head with another vehicle. Pretty bumpy road." Another advises: "If wet make sure your car can handle sand and mud as roads in are not paved."
Hookup availability: Most pet friendly camping near Hammonton offers limited or no hookups. While Wading Pines provides "All the hook ups you need," many state forest campgrounds offer only basic amenities. At Wharton State Forest campgrounds, come prepared for primitive camping with minimal facilities in most areas.
Legend
