M
Michael M.
Scout
ScoutTurkey Swamp Park
Water/power at the campsite, and and centrally located dump station. Lots of trees and nice separation of sites
Tent Camping near Southampton, NJ
1 campground with availability next weekend
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Wharton State Forest offers the primary tent campgrounds near Southampton, New Jersey, with multiple primitive sites spread throughout the Pine Barrens ecosystem. The Batona Campground features designated tent sites along the 50-mile Batona Trail, while Goshen Pond provides secluded walk-in tent camping options near water features. Mullica River and Lower Forge campgrounds offer backcountry tent camping accessible only by hiking or paddling in, creating more remote tent camping experiences 5-7 miles from trailheads.
Most tent campgrounds in the Wharton State Forest feature sandy terrain typical of the Pine Barrens region, with minimal site improvements beyond fire rings. Access roads often consist of loose sand that standard vehicles can navigate, though with caution. Primitive tent sites lack amenities, with only basic pit toilets or vault facilities available. Water sources are limited to seasonal hand pumps at certain locations like Batona Campground, requiring campers to filter river water or bring sufficient supplies. One camper noted, "Checking in is slow so come early," as ranger stations can be up to 20 minutes from actual campsites.
The tent camping experience in this region offers genuine seclusion among pine forests. Sites at Batona Campground provide direct access to hiking trails, though they may be positioned close together with limited privacy when crowded. A recent review mentioned that "sites are nicely in the trees" at Goshen Pond, offering better separation between campers. Wildlife awareness is essential, as bears frequent these campgrounds and ticks are abundant throughout the Pine Barrens. The camping season typically runs April through October, with weekdays offering significantly lower occupancy for tent campers seeking solitude. Backpackers often use these tent sites as waypoints along longer Batona Trail hikes, with water access for filtering despite the characteristic brown tannin coloration of local streams.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Southampton (24)
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. 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
6. 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."
7. Tip Tam Camping Resort
"Just from walking around I saw the two pools, an RC track, bocci, shuffle and board. They did have organized activities set up as well."
"It feels like you're camping out in a field with mostly sand around. But having said that, I'd still recommend it for all of the positive they do have."
8. Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024
"The Pennsylvania side is all about historic buildings, museums and picnic spots, while the New Jersey side (Washington Crossing State Park) offers organized group tent camping."
"The areas for that seemed well groomed, bathrooms were acceptable, and there was plenty of space. Some nice trees not too close allowed for good shade, without feeling like in a forest."
Check Availabilityfrom $50 - $100 / night
9. Abbot Sawmill
"Close to the main roads but feels remote."
10. Buttonwood Hill — Wharton State Forest
"Great location for Questival, would visit again. Easy access and felt very safe and secluded."
Drive Time
- 27 min from Trenton, NJ
- 30 min from Philadelphia, PA
- 45 min from Vineland, NJ
- 53 min from Atlantic City, NJ
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Southampton, NJ
37 Photos of 24 Southampton Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Batona — Wharton State ForestM
Goshen Pond — Wharton State ForestA
Lower Forge Camp
Mullica River — Wharton State ForestR
Hawkins Bridge — Wharton State Forest
Bodine Field — Wharton State Forest
Blueberry Morning
Tip Tam Camping Resort
Evansburg State Park Campground
Pleasant Valley LavenderE
Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park
Round Valley State Park Campground
Tent Camping Reviews near Southampton, NJ
581 Reviews of 24 Southampton Campgrounds
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!
Maria Mercedes M.LegendRound Valley State Park Campground
Peaceful Wilderness Escape for Adventurous Families
There's something wonderfully special about escaping into nature where the only sounds are rustling leaves, birds singing and the gentle movement of water along the shoreline. Nestled among the wooded hills surrounding the beautiful Round Valley Reservoir, this rustic SP campground offers families a chance to disconnect from everyday distractions and enjoy a little wilderness adventure together. Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light. Once you've arrived, you'll find secluded, wooded campsites with picnic tables, fire rings and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Amenities are basic, with pit toilets and no showers, but the beautiful reservoir, scenic hiking trails, fishing and kayaking opportunities more than make up for the lack of modern conveniences. Our kids loved exploring the woods, spotting wildlife and gathering around a crackling campfire at night to share stories beneath the stars. For families comfortable with the hike, I'd recommend choosing one of the campsites along the reservoir shoreline for the lovely water views and peaceful surroundings. Just remember that swimming is limited to the park's designated beach area. Round Valley isn't your typical family campground, but for adventurous families who enjoy hiking, camping under the stars and making wonderful memories together, it's a beautiful place to experience nature at its finest!
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.
- 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.
Edwin R.ScoutCheesequake State Park Campground
Park uses county cops to shut down park by 9pm.
On Friday, September 4, 2026, I rented a trailer and brought my family to Cheesequake State Park to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary over the extended Labor Day weekend. Around 9:20 PM—well before the park's designated 10:00 PM quiet hours—we were sitting inside our canopy, playing Jenga, and listening to low background music. Two officers from the Matawan Police Department approached our campsite. They were polite and courteous, simply offering a standard reminder to wrap things up by 10:00 PM. Before they could leave, however, a third, senior officer intervened. Wanting to"show them how it's done," he made the two polite officers return and stand by to watch as he demonstrated how to aggressively harass campers. Flashlight in hand, the senior officer approached with an immediate hostile attitude, treating us like criminals as he demanded to know who rented the site. He began reiterating rules and claimed we had too many vehicles. We had three cars, one belonging to my brother-in-law's girlfriend, who was visiting with her daughter. She had paid the$10 visitor fee at the main office and was instructed by staff to obtain the gate access code from us, the primary renters, if she got locked in. No staff member ever informed her of an 8:00 PM visitor departure deadline, leading us to reasonably assume visitors were permitted until quiet hours began at 10:00 PM. The officer rudely snapped that she had been given wrong information. The senior officer then used profanity in front of three small children, aggressively telling her to ("get her shit and get the fuck out!") in that manner or use profanity, the officer went from hostile to furious. He angrily declared that these were official violations and threatened that he could be issuing us tickets instead. Desperately searching for anything and everything to throw at us, he demanded that we turn off our idling car—which was supplying power to our campsite—and instructed us to make sure the campfire was doused before shutting down for the night. He then proceeded to shine his flashlight into our private setup—including our canopy, tents, and the inside of our trailer—searching for any other possible violation while the two polite officers were forced to watch. What was supposed to be a special 10th wedding anniversary celebration with my family was completely ruined by a senior officer misusing his authority to put on an unnecessary display of intimidation. Worse than just ruining our night, he spent that evening teaching those two police officers how to be bad cops. He corrupted two officers in real time, demonstrating firsthand exactly why most people have lost faith in the police force. The next day we was ready for them. We turned off our lights and quietly by the fire while they went next door to harass an asian family that had just set up camp and had their leds lights on.
Thomas B.
RangerTohickon Family Campground
Simple, peaceful FHU
We stayed just a couple nights here on our way north. The camp host was helpful before our stay and during check-in. Our site was pretty isolated from the others, so it was very quiet (no complaints here). There is a decent mix of sunny sites by the river and shady sites under the trees. The weather was perfect mid September. There wasn't anything spectacular for me, but it was a good experience and it was a nice taste of fall PA scenery. Beware that the roads are tight for a big rig. Side note, it did seem like most campers lived there.
- Adeline M.Guide
Brendan 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.
Guide to Southampton
The Pine Barrens region near Southampton, New Jersey offers distinctive acidic soil conditions that support unique plant communities not found elsewhere in the state. Camping elevations remain relatively flat throughout the area, typically between 50-150 feet above sea level with temperatures ranging 5-10°F cooler than coastal regions. Sandy forest floors provide natural drainage during summer rainstorms, preventing most campsite flooding issues.
What to do
Paddle the Wading River: The Wading River provides excellent canoe and kayak opportunities with dark water from natural tannins. A camper at Hawkins Bridge — Wharton State Forest noted, "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."
Explore the Batona Trail: This 50-mile trail system connects multiple campgrounds and offers flat, sandy hiking terrain. A visitor to Mullica River — Wharton State Forest shared, "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. Start hike kayak trip at 206 hike 6 miles in camp then hike kayak out 5 miles to batsto."
Visit Harrisville Pond: Located near Bodine Field Campground, this large pond offers fishing opportunities. According to a camper, "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 as well as a decent trail that goes around the entire pond."
What campers like
Genuine wilderness camping: The remote locations provide true seclusion for tent camping near Southampton. A visitor to Lower Forge Camp said, "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)."
Soft sandy terrain: The Pine Barrens provide uniquely comfortable tent sites. One camper at Batona — Wharton State Forest reported, "Each campsite includes a fire pit with a grate. The entire campground is fairly shaded by the pines, and the ground is flat throughout. The back of the campground backs up to a beautiful creek/swamp."
Accessibility for beginners: Despite wilderness settings, many campgrounds offer approachable backpacking experiences. A Lower Forge camper noted, "It's one of my personal favorites to disappear for a weekend and great for beginners who you're trying to break into backpacking. Located right off the Batona trail your bound for adventure."
What you should know
Ticks and insects: Pine Barrens camping requires vigilant tick checks. A camper at Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest advised, "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."
Variable site spacing: Some campgrounds have closely packed sites that lack privacy when busy. A visitor to Mullica River campground reported, "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."
Best times to visit: Weekday camping offers much more solitude. A camper at Bodine Field Campground observed, "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
Pedal cars and playgrounds: Some private campgrounds offer additional family amenities. A visitor to Tip Tam Camping Resort commented, "The place was fun. They have peddle cars and playgrounds. They deliver wood to your site by the truck full! Nice little store and staff are all friendly."
Group sites for larger gatherings: Several campgrounds accommodate family groups. A camper at Abbot Sawmill noted, "Close to the main roads but feels remote," making it accessible for families while still providing a wilderness experience.
Early morning activity: Be prepared for early risers at developed campgrounds. A Tip Tam visitor warned, "The only downside I saw was people here are up way too early. 7am place was already loud. 7:45am a propane truck pulled in to fill the propane and was extremely loud. Don't expect to sleep past 7:30am."
Tips from RVers
Sand road challenges: Many access roads to the best tent camping near Southampton, New Jersey require careful driving. A camper at Batona Campground observed, "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle. 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."
Limited amenities: Most Pine Barrens campgrounds lack standard RV hookups. A visitor noted, "Bathrooms are very basic. Fresh water pump is located at entrance to campground. Each campsite is a cleared area with a fire pit."
Size restrictions: Larger rigs should seek developed campgrounds outside the state forest. As one camper at Tip Tam Camping Resort stated, "This campground is well managed and it shows. All sites are well maintained and cared for. They also are a Good Sam and Passport America park."
Frequently Asked Questions
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campsite near Southampton, NJ?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Southampton, NJ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Southampton, NJ is Batona — Wharton State Forest with a 4.3-star rating from 12 reviews.
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