Catherine G.
Scout
ScoutHolly Acres RV Park
I came late. Found a great spot and it was free. Woke up next to a beauty lake.
Tent Camping near Hammonton, NJ
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Wharton State Forest surrounds Hammonton, New Jersey with extensive primitive tent camping opportunities throughout the Pine Barrens ecosystem. The forest offers several tent-focused campgrounds including Mullica River Campground directly in Hammonton, Batona Campground in Egg Harbor City, and Goshen Pond Campground in Shamong. Lower Forge Camp provides backcountry tent camping accessible only by hiking 5-7 miles from trailheads at Atsion or Batsto. These tent-only sites operate seasonally from April 1 to October 31, with reservations required for all locations. The Batona Trail, a 50-mile hiking path, connects several of these campgrounds, making them ideal for multi-day backpacking trips.
The tent campsites feature sandy soil characteristic of the Pine Barrens, providing surprisingly comfortable ground for sleeping. Most sites include fire rings, though picnic tables are limited or absent at many locations. Drinking water is available via hand pumps at Batona and Hawkins Bridge campgrounds, but not during winter months. Facilities are basic, with pit toilets or outhouses being standard. Campers should be prepared for ticks and chiggers, particularly during summer months. The dark-colored rivers throughout the region get their distinctive appearance from natural tannins released by decaying pine needles, not pollution. Weekend crowds can significantly impact the camping experience, with weekday visits offering more solitude.
Walk-in tent sites at Goshen Pond provide a quieter experience than drive-in options. One camper noted, "There is more foot traffic, but you don't hear cars coming and going past your site all the time." The Batona Campground is described as "best suited for tent campers" though sites can be closely spaced. During August, many campgrounds remain relatively empty, with visitors reporting "secluded sites" even at popular locations. The unique ecosystem offers abundant kindling for fires from fallen pine trees. Tent campers frequently use these sites as bases for kayaking, with convenient water access at several locations. The Batsto River provides filterable water for backcountry campers, though higher-numbered sites at Mullica River Campground have marshier access points than lower-numbered ones.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Hammonton (19)
1. Batona — Wharton State Forest
"Bears frequent this campground so be bear aware and practice proper food storage. "
"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."
2. Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest
"I like campgrounds which have you park off and walk in to your site. There is more foot traffic, but you don't hear as many cars coming and going and driving past your site all the time."
"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."
3. Mullica River — Wharton State Forest
"This campground is hike-in or boat-in only, no car access. We camped here for one night on an overnight loop in Wharton State Forest. Wild blueberries abound during summer months!"
"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."
4. Bodine Field — Wharton State Forest
"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."
"Bodine Field is one of several camping locations within Wharton State Forest. I am writing this review over a year after our stay so forgive me if the details are lacking."
5. Abbot Sawmill
"Close to the main roads but feels remote."
6. Lower Forge Camp
"Looking for a place to escape without having to drive out of your way to get to? Lower forge is the place."
Check Availabilityfrom $5 / night
7. Buttonwood Hill — Wharton State Forest
"Great location for Questival, would visit again. Easy access and felt very safe and secluded."
8. Hawkins Bridge — Wharton State Forest
"Wharton State Forest has a few campsites available for primitive camping (my preferred choice). This is a review for HAWKINS BRIDGE."
"This is a primitive campsite near the river. There is water but just compost toilets that are bit few for the size campground."
9. Red Wing Lakes
"Swimming lake catch and release lake sells wood has bath houses, electric, water and sewer hookups. They always have something going on. And a skeet range http://www.redwinglakes.com/lakes.html"
10. Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park
"Terrific space for exploring"
"well marked trails great for hiking. pet friendly! we love walking here with our dog. there are even a few great spots to get a small creek swim in! It also has a greag picnic area with grills."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $57 / night
Drive Time
- 25 min from Vineland, NJ
- 32 min from Atlantic City, NJ
- 39 min from Philadelphia, PA
- 48 min from Trenton, NJ
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Hammonton, NJ
22 Photos of 19 Hammonton Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Tent Camping Reviews near Hammonton, NJ
518 Reviews of 19 Hammonton Campgrounds
- MMichael M.Scout
Turkey Swamp Park
Water/power at the campsite, and and centrally located dump station. Lots of trees and nice separation of sites
Stuart K.
LegendWashington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024
Revolutionary History near Delaware River
Nestled along the picturesque Delaware River in beautiful Bucks County, Washington Crossing Historic Park is one of those destinations where American history practically jumps out from behind every tree. This sprawling, beautifully preserved historic park commemorates George Washington's daring Christmas night crossing of the Delaware in 1776, with charming colonial buildings, expansive green spaces, shaded walking paths and lovely riverfront scenery. Divided into Upper and Lower sections, the park offers plenty to explore, from historic homesteads and interpretive exhibits to scenic picnic areas and the impressive Bowman's Hill Tower. Unfortunately, while the park delivers a wonderful outdoor experience, traditional overnight camping isn't part of the equation unless your a Boy Scout or accompanying one of their troops.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Spectacular Revolutionary War history at the very site of Washington's legendary Delaware River crossing; (2) Beautifully maintained grounds featuring mature trees, open lawns and scenic riverfront views; (3) Fascinating colonial-era buildings, historic demonstrations and educational exhibits that bring America's founding history to life; (4) Wonderful recreational opportunities, including walking, cycling, fishing, kayaking and picnicking; and (5) Convenient proximity to charming New Hope, the Delaware Canal towpath and Bowman's Hill Tower, offering plenty of opportunities to extend your adventure.
LOWLIGHTS: (1) No conventional public tent or RV camping, with overnight group camping restricted to organized Scout groups by prior arrangement; (2) No dedicated RV campsites, electrical hookups, water connections or dump station; (3) Park grounds generally close at sunset, limiting opportunities to linger into the evening; (4) Some historic buildings and attractions require admission fees or operate on limited schedules; and (5) Periodic restoration projects and special events can restrict access to certain areas, while the historic Washington Crossing Bridge's three-ton weight limit makes it unsuitable for larger RVs.
Happy Camping!
Andrea B.
TravelerColonial Meadows Family Campground
Great park
Many long term seasonal sites. Good community. Large shower house good and clean . Pool. Game room. Off leash dog park. Wooded/shady sites or no shade sunny sites. Lots of area to walk or play. Large field, basketball couture, frisky golf, play area and laundry room. We were here all summer (June-october). Lots to do in the area. Good food nearby. Ocean city 10 minutes away.
- JJohn Y.Scout
Ocean View Resort Campground
One of the best campgrounds I have ever stayed in
This is one of the largest, if not the largest, campgrounds in Southern New Jersey. While on the pricier side, everything is top-notch. The roads are all paved, and not gravel (I hate trying to sleep and listening to the sound of stones grating together). The sites are more spacious than most campgrounds, so it doesn't seem so crowded. The bathrooms are all modern and spotless. There are numerous bathrooms which means most sites have one nearby. They do charge a quarter for showers to encourage water conservation and donate the money to conservation causes. The pool is large, as is the lake. Both are well-maintained. The camp store is enormous and is really nice and well-stocked with everything one might need from food to pool and beach stuff to camping supplies and equipment. There is a nice cafe with indoor and outdoor seating. The camp store has a lending library of books and DVDs. There are numerous activities that appear to be well-run, The grounds are shaded with many trees for a great wooded campground feel. The campground is so large that it has an internal shuttle with stations scattered about to help people go between the various important sites such as at the pool, the lake and the store. I found other campers, particularly the seasonals, to be more friendly than other campgrounds at the shore. This requires constant tree care including removing dead trees and branches which they do regularly. The staff is friendly and well-trained. I was in a tent, and when a rare October nor'easter came through, I was offered the opportunity to use a cabin free-of-charge. Fortunately my tent and equipment made it through days of rain and high winds just fine . On my first stay in May, I had to run my dog back to Baltimore towards the end of my trip where he was sadly diagnosed with incurable metastatic cancer. When I returned, I was late and unable to check out by 11, but they allowed me to take as much time as needed to clear the site, as nobody was staying there the next day, which was deeply appreciated - I was an emotional wreck. Oh, and I found the complimentary Wi-Fi to be a great service, and sufficiently fast to allow me to stream ultra-high-definition movies at my site - Most campgrounds charge extra for less-than-good service - a lot more. I find that a big bonus. Overall, I LOVE this campground and highly recommend it.
- bbob J.
GuideAtsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest
Pine Barrens New Jersey
This campground is part of the Wharton State Forest and has several campgrounds in the area. Great wooded sites right on a lake. Pretty good separation between sites with good tree separation between sites. Some road noise not overly affecting site.
- DDiane M.Scout
Brendan Byrne State Forest
Just ok
Restrooms are filthy with mold and mildew.
Water puddled on the restroom floor.really gross.
Cabin was mostly clean. The windows were full of dirt and bugs on the tracks.mattresses were terrible.The fireplace was nice. Kitchen was clean.
Can t wait to move on to a cleaner park.
Adeline M.GuideBrendan Byrne State Forest
Beautiful campground, loud campers
Beautiful campground but made the mistake of going on a holiday weekend, the campgrounds next to us were screaming and blasting music all day and throughout the night so we ended up leaving early. A beautiful campground when there aren’t noisy capers ruining it.
- CCarlos E.Scout
Turkey Swamp Park
Really nice campground
Stayed three nights in a tent and enjoyed it very much. Sites have electrical hookups, shared water connections, large picnic table, and fire ring with adjustable grate. Electrical and water are at the outer edge of each site so you might want an extension cord and/or hose. Bathrooms are clean; showers have separate stalls but they’re clustered together (not the most private). There are hiking and biking trails, a lake, and archery park. Staff are friendly. Office is open through 9pm, and firewood, ice, and bait for fishing are available. Site C3 is in an okay spot; it’s close to the bathroom and laundry room, but also right next to the playground. We were able to visit the beach; easy 25 minute drive to Asbury Park.
Guide to Hammonton
Wharton State Forest tent camping near Hammonton, New Jersey features sandy soil unique to the Pine Barrens region, creating surprisingly comfortable sleeping conditions despite the primitive setting. The area encompasses over 122,000 acres of protected forest land with elevations rarely exceeding 200 feet above sea level. Trail systems connect multiple campgrounds, with temperatures ranging from 30-90°F throughout the camping season from April through October.
What to do
Kayaking access points: At Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest, you'll find convenient water entry for paddling. "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 Anna D.
Multi-day paddling trips: Plan a two-day canoe tour down the Wading River starting at Hawkins Bridge — Wharton State Forest. "Did a two day Canoe tour down the wading river and used the outfitter Micks Canoe. We started Friday night camping at Hawkins Bridge campground," shares Thomas M., who adds "Wading river has a nice flow. It's a dark black river from the tannins."
Batona Trail hiking: Access this 50-mile trail directly from several tent camping sites near Hammonton. "Best part of this campground is trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible," explains meghan G. from her experience at Batona Campground.
Wild blueberry picking: During summer months, find wild blueberries while hiking to backcountry sites. Rebecca S. mentions this seasonal treat at Mullica River — Wharton State Forest: "We camped here for one night on an overnight loop in Wharton State Forest. Wild blueberries abound during summer months!"
What campers like
Secluded environment: Many tent campers near Hammonton appreciate the isolation. Alyssa D. from Batona — Wharton State Forest shares, "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!"
Walk-in site privacy: Some campers prefer sites that require a short walk from parking. "I like campgrounds which have you park off and walk in to your site. There is more foot traffic, but you don't hear as many cars coming and going and driving past your site all the time," explains Elliott B. about Goshen Pond.
Natural kindling abundance: The Pine Barrens ecosystem provides practical benefits for tent campers. Hallie M. notes at Hawkins Bridge, "The unique ecosystem of the barrens give campers some advantages: the ground is soft and comfortable to sleep on (NOT rocky at all, like almost weird how few rocks there are). It also means that there is plenty of kindling to gather for fires."
Water features: Campers enjoy proximity to distinctive waterways. "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," reports Dan M. about Bodine Field Campground.
What you should know
Insect awareness: Ticks and other biting insects are common in tent camping areas near Hammonton. "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," advises Eldad K. from Goshen Pond.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require navigating unpaved routes. "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, adding "The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit."
Water appearance: The dark-colored rivers are natural, not polluted. "Batsto River provides plenty of water for filtering—don't be weirded out by the brown color caused by tannins," advises Rebecca S. from her experience at Lower Forge Camp.
Bathroom facilities: Most tent camping areas have basic toilets only. "Bathrooms are very basic. Fresh water pump is located at entrance to campground," notes meghan G., while another camper described facilities as "Vault toilets, but has potable water available and you're right off the water."
Weekend crowds: For solitude when tent camping near Hammonton, timing matters. Adeline M. reports about Bodine Field, "During the off season 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."
Tips for camping with families
Distance planning: When backpacking with kids to remote sites, prepare for longer distances than expected. James R. from Lower Forge notes, "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)... great for beginners who you're trying to break into backpacking."
Group site selection: Families should consider the layout advantages of specific sites. "If you're camping with a group, aim for this site," recommends Hallie M. about Hawkins Bridge, explaining "Each of the private campsites have a parking spot. It's really all the benefits of backwoods camping (the quiet, the solitude) with all the conveniences of car camping."
Site spacing awareness: For family tent camping near Hammonton, understand site proximity. "Individual sites are closely packed, which was not a problem as we were the only ones there. Any more than 2-3 groups of campers and this ground would start to feel claustrophobic," notes Rebecca S. about Mullica River Campground.
Youth group popularity: Be prepared for potential noise from organized youth activities. Lauren from Bodine Field — Wharton State Forest shares her experience: "Beautiful remote location w minimal amenities but 3 boy scout troops of screaming children didn't make it enjoyable."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Larger RVs face access challenges at most tent camping areas near Hammonton. Meg F. from Batona appreciates that there are "Thankfully no RVs here," while meghan G. clarifies that "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."
Seasonal water availability: RVers should note that water access changes by season. Trip Over Life warns, "A water pump provides fresh water but is not available in the winter," and meghan G. confirms facilities are limited: "Fresh water pump is located at entrance to campground."
Bear awareness: Proper food storage is essential when RVing in this area. Trip Over Life cautions, "Bears frequent this campground so be bear aware and practice proper food storage."
Frequently Asked Questions
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Which is the most popular tent campsite near Hammonton, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Hammonton, NJ is Batona — Wharton State Forest with a 4.3-star rating from 12 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 19 tent camping locations near Hammonton, NJ, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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