The Pine Barrens tent camping areas near Long Beach, New Jersey feature cedar-stained waterways that create distinctive dark waters throughout the region. The sandy soil common to these sites ranges from fine white sand to coarser variants, with the ground temperature remaining notably cooler than air temperature due to the pine canopy's shade. Camping elevation remains relatively consistent throughout the region, typically between 100-150 feet above sea level with minimal topographical changes.
What to do
Kayaking on cedar-tinted waters: Hawkins Bridge Campground offers direct water access for paddlers looking to explore the distinctive dark waters of the Wading River. A camper noted, "We put in the water the next day and travel 10 miles to Bodine Fields campground... Wading river has a nice flow. It's a dark black river from the tannins." The river's natural color comes from decaying pine vegetation rather than pollution.
Hiking the interconnected trail system: Batona — Wharton State Forest provides direct trail access from the campgrounds. According to a reviewer, "Best part of this campground is trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible." These sandy trails connect multiple camping areas across the forest.
Fishing in Pine Barrens waters: Bodine Field — Wharton State Forest campers can access nearby Harrisville Pond for fishing opportunities. One camper explained, "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
Off-the-grid solitude: Lower Forge Camp requires effort to reach but rewards with remoteness. A camper shared, "One if the few places in New Jersey you have to backpack into with access from either (Atsion 5+ miles in) or Batsto (7 miles) located right on the Basto River you're even able to boat in. It's one of my personal favorites to disappear for a weekend."
Private sites among the pines: Goshen Pond Campground offers secluded tent camping options. One camper mentioned, "The boyfriend and I stayed for a weekend at one of the primitive tent sites. Our site was private and secluded." Another added, "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."
Sandy soil for comfortable tent setup: Hawkins Bridge provides unusually comfortable ground for tent campers. A reviewer explained, "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." This soft, sandy soil is consistent with the best tent camping near Long Beach, New Jersey.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds and noise levels: Tent camping experiences vary dramatically depending on timing. At Bodine Field, a camper observed, "During the off season is in 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."
Tick prevalence throughout region: Mullica River — Wharton State Forest and surrounding areas require vigilance against ticks. A camper at 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."
Limited facilities at most sites: Expect primitive accommodations at most tent sites near Long Beach. At Bodine Field, a reviewer noted, "Very rustic and secluded, no showers/running water. Outhouses all around the campground." Another mentioned, "Potable water is available along with a couple Porta potties. Creek access, if you wanted to go kayaking."
Sandy access roads: Vehicle access to many campgrounds involves navigating sandy terrain. A Batona camper explained, "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle." Standard passenger vehicles can navigate these roads but may struggle in extremely dry or wet conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campsites with activity options: Tip Tam Camping Resort offers numerous amenities for children. A camper reported, "The place was fun... they have peddle cars and playgrounds. They deliver wood to your site by the truck full!" Another mentioned, "There is plenty to do or not. Kids can go. Mini golf, swimming, pedal cars."
Set noise expectations: Family tent camping near Long Beach may not offer complete quiet. A Tip Tam visitor noted, "The only downside I saw was people here are up way to early. 7am place was already loud. 7:45am a propane truck pulled in the full the propane and was extremely loud." Consider weekday visits for quieter experiences.
Prepare for sandy conditions: Pine Barrens camping features sandy soil throughout, which affects tent stability. According to one camper at Bodine Field, "Very sandy area. There is a little river area within the site which is fun." Sand stakes or alternative anchoring methods help secure tents in these conditions.
Water activities provide cooling options: When temperatures rise, water access becomes important for families. One Goshen Pond camper shared, "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."
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations: Most Pine Barrens campgrounds accommodate only smaller RVs. A Batona camper noted, "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."
Campground accessibility challenges: Abbot Sawmill offers RV access that feels remote despite being accessible. A camper mentioned, "Close to the main roads but feels remote," making it suitable for RVers seeking a more natural camping experience without difficult access.
Limited hookup availability: Most tent camping areas near Long Beach offer no hookups, though Red Wing Lakes provides more amenities. A seasonal camper explained, "Swimming lake catch and release lake sells wood has bath houses, electric, water and sewer hookups." These represent some of the few full-service options for RVers seeking the best tent camping near Long Beach, New Jersey.
