Wharton State Forest and surrounding Pinelands offer unique camping environments on sandy soil with pine tree canopies throughout Evesham, New Jersey. The region contains cedar-stained waterways from naturally occurring tannins, creating distinctive dark-colored lakes and rivers throughout the Pine Barrens. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing while summer brings humid 90°F days, requiring appropriate gear for both extremes when planning yurt camping near Evesham.
What to do
Paddling adventures: The Wading River provides excellent kayaking and tubing opportunities near Evesham. At Wading Pines Camping Resort, campers can tube between campground sections. "You can tube down the river from one end of camp to the other," notes Layne, highlighting the convenience for water enthusiasts. Some visitors arrange drop-offs for longer river excursions: "Have someone drop you off at Hawkins Bridge and float down to the campground. A little over 2 hour ride."
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park offers dedicated archery facilities with hay bale targets. "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels," suggests Patrick M., making this a distinctive activity not found at many campgrounds. The archery range provides a specialized outdoor experience for both beginners and experienced archers.
Seasonal lake activities: From summer swimming to winter skating, lake access adds year-round appeal. "Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," reports a visitor to Turkey Swamp Park. The lakes within state forests and parks near Evesham offer multiple recreation options regardless of season.
What campers like
Private pine forest sites: The natural spacing of pine trees creates secluded camping spots. At Brendan Byrne State Forest, "Sites are a little bit close to each and didnt offer much privacy but they were right in top of each other," according to Dorian P., who also noted the campground's distance from main roads creates a feeling of seclusion: "you have to drive a good amount of distance to get into the campground...Made me feel super secluded and disconnected from the outside!"
Dark night skies: Minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. Dina S. described her experience at Wharton State Forest: "Our tent is has a full view of the sky and at night it was like a planetarium as we admired the sky from our cots." This natural darkness provides a rare opportunity for amateur astronomers and casual stargazers alike.
Distinctive water features: The region's naturally dark waters offer unique swimming and paddling experiences. "Wading river has a nice flow. It's a dark black river from the tannins," explains Thomas M. at Hawkins Bridge — Wharton State Forest. This distinctive coloration is a natural characteristic of the Pine Barrens waterways, not pollution or contamination.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Site accessibility varies significantly among campgrounds. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, "The park is better looking toward the back but the sites are kind of crowded together and bare," according to Paula, suggesting that requesting specific areas can improve your experience. At more primitive sites, advanced preparation is necessary.
Water quality varies: Natural tannins affect water appearance and quality throughout the region. "The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing," reports Frank J. about Parvin State Park. Consider bringing drinking water and planning accordingly for water needs during your yurt camping trip in Evesham.
Yurt camping limitations: Few true yurt options exist in the immediate Evesham area. While some campgrounds list yurts among accommodation types, availability is limited and seasonal. Most camping near Evesham features cabin accommodations instead, with yurts primarily found at Wading Pines Camping Resort where reservation policies require booking well in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Sites near recreation areas offer convenience but may be louder. One visitor to Parvin State Park Campground noted: "Site is great for people with families as there was a playground within 50 feet so it is a bit louder and busier." This trade-off between convenience and noise should factor into site selection for families.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer extensive children's programming. At Jellystone Park South Jersey, Matt S. reports, "The pool and surrounding amenities are nice and clean including lake, snack bar, and ice cream." Many campgrounds also offer organized weekend activities, particularly during summer months.
Wildlife awareness: Tick prevention is essential, especially with children. "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!" warns Megan S. about Turkey Swamp Park. Regular checks after outdoor activities help prevent tick-borne illnesses that can affect your family camping experience near Evesham.
Tips from RVers
Access roads: Evaluate campground approach routes carefully before bringing larger rigs. At Old Cedar Campground, Matt S. notes: "Couple of negatives and tips: 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." Prepare for dirt roads in many state park campgrounds.
Site leveling: Many natural sites require additional equipment for proper setup. "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy," reports Lee D. about Turkey Swamp Park, though noting that "all roads and camper pads are dirt." Preparing leveling blocks and understanding site conditions ensures a smoother setup process.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in state parks, with more options at private campgrounds. "We stayed in Site# 51 in the Fence Loop- a pull-thru with 50-amp, water, and sewer. The hookups seemed to work just fine," shares a reviewer about Old Cedar Campground, highlighting the importance of confirming specific amenities when booking for RVs around Evesham, New Jersey.
