Nestled within New Jersey's unique Pine Barrens ecosystem, glamping in Southampton offers a distinctive camping environment characterized by sandy soil and cedar-stained waterways. The region features an extensive network of hiking trails across Wharton and Brendan Byrne State Forests, with temperatures typically ranging from 40-85°F depending on the season. Winter camping remains available at select locations, though facilities may be limited during off-peak months.
What to do
Kayaking the Wading River: Launch directly from Hawkins Bridge in Wharton State Forest for a scenic paddle through tea-colored waters. "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. This is a primitive campsite near the river," shares Thomas M.
Explore historic sites: Visit Batsto Village, a preserved 18th-century iron-making town located 15 minutes from campgrounds. "Historic Batsto Village, just 15 minutes from select locations, preserves an 18th-century iron and glass-making community with educational exhibits and preserved buildings," notes a visitor.
Winter activities: During colder months, Turkey Swamp Park offers ice skating on the frozen lake. "Great place to camp. Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking," reports Dan W., while another visitor adds, "Enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods" or "ice skate on the lake in the winter."
Archery practice: Try the designated archery range at Turkey Swamp Park, which provides hay bale targets for both beginners and experienced archers. "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. The campground was super clean too," shares Jaewook P.
What campers like
Sandy pine forest terrain: The unique Pine Barrens soil creates comfortable camping conditions. "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," writes Hallie M. about Hawkins Bridge Campground.
Quiet seclusion: Many campers appreciate the distance from urban noise. "It's far away from traffic noise. You can't hear any cars or any other noise from civilization at all. It's at least 10 miles away from anything more than a single house in the woods," Benjamin K. says about Brendan Byrne.
Spacious waterfront sites: Waterfront camping offers direct access to fishing and water activities. "LOVE!!!! I always get site #8 and it has an amazing view of the lake. While camping at atsion family campground, you have free access to the recreation center (the beach and some trails)," explains Alexa L.
Family-friendly amenities: Timberland Lake Campground provides themed weekends with activities throughout the season. "We LOVE camping here in the fall!! They do their own haunted walk through that is just awesome! Everyone decorates. They have a dj every Saturday! Plenty of activities for the kids," shares Jessica D.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Some facilities have limited operations outside summer months. At Brendan Byrne State Forest, "Only weird rule I saw was that fires can only go from 6pm till 7am which was odd but wasn't a deal breaker," notes Dorian P.
Ticks and insects: The Pine Barrens ecosystem harbors ticks, particularly during warmer months. "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!" advises Megan S. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Primitive amenities: Several campgrounds offer minimal facilities. "This is a primitive campsite near the river. There is water but just compost toilets that are bit few for the size campground," explains Thomas M. about Hawkins Bridge.
Road conditions: Interior roads can be challenging in some locations. "The 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," warns Brianna P.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near playgrounds: At Wading Pines Camping Resort, families can access recreational facilities. "We loved this campground. Friendly staff. Plenty for the kids to do. The river is right there to go tubing or kayaking. Playground is cool," reports Arnold M.
Consider fall camping: Autumn offers great family experiences with less intense heat and fewer insects. "We went to timberland lake last fall. It happened to be the Halloween weekend which was full of excellent activities from pumpkin painting to piñatas and tricker treating," shares Ann Marie M.
Try lake activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming and fishing options suitable for children. "The kids loved the fishing pond and exploring fantasy island. Found out too late that the train only ran on the weekends, kids were pretty bummed," notes Ryan from Wading Pines.
Look for organized activities: Seasonal events provide entertainment for young campers. "Every Saturday they had an organized activity for the kids…. EVERYONE was extremely friendly," reports Craig W. about Old Cedar Campground.
Tips from RVers
Bring extra water hoses: At Turkey Swamp Park, water access may require additional equipment. "The water hookups are shared every other site (at least in the Fence Loop). I was lucky my 75' hose barely reached the distance needed. Be sure to bring extra hoses," advises Matt S.
Site selection matters: Choose pull-through sites when available for easier setup. "We had seasonals in front and behind us who weren't very friendly and one woman looked annoyed we were there," notes Stacy D. about Old Cedar Campground.
Check power requirements: Confirm amperage availability before arrival. "I reserved and paid for a premium site which listed 50-amp service and a concrete pad. Nope. Only 30-amp service and no concrete pad," warns a visitor to Adventure Bound Camping.
Tree clearance considerations: Some campgrounds have tight access for larger rigs. "This place is not big-rig friendly, difficult to navigate some of the turns in our 45' motorhome and taking scratches from tree branches that should be trimmed," cautions Matt S.
