Camping opportunities around Tabernacle, New Jersey extend throughout the Pine Barrens region, characterized by sandy soil and dense pine forests. The area's elevation averages just 50 feet above sea level with a humid subtropical climate that brings hot summers and mild winters. During summer months, temperatures regularly reach into the high 80s with significant humidity, making waterfront camping locations particularly desirable.
What to do
Water activities: Delaware Seashore State Park Campground offers direct beach access under the Charles W. Cullen Memorial Bridge. As reviewer Lee D. notes, "There is direct access to the beach under the bridge where there are restaurants, concessions, and other activities at the Big Chill Beach Club. There is also a pedestrian walkway on the bridge which was kind of cool."
Kayaking among cypress trees: Trap Pond State Park Campground provides a unique opportunity to paddle among rare northern bald cypress trees. One camper mentioned, "We enjoyed kayaking among the bald cypress trees (I highly recommend this)" and another reviewer added that "They also have a bike shed where you can sign out bikes for free for the day which was super neat."
Western-themed entertainment: For families wanting structured activities, Sun Outdoors Frontier Town offers themed entertainment. A reviewer described, "They have a wild West show, zip lines, mini golf, ice cream shop all this cost extra but worth it. They also have a pool for just the campground. That doesn't get as crowded as the water park."
What campers like
Beach proximity: Campers appreciate oceanfront access at Delaware Seashore State Park. According to Gayle B., "Ocean was a short 5 minute walk from our campsite- along with a playground and delicious restaurant (that even served vegan food!)! Sites were level and paved along with some sand and grass."
Privacy between sites: Blackbird State Forest Campground (currently closed until further notice) offers more secluded camping. One reviewer mentioned, "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room," while another added, "The camp sites are spaced out a good amount so each site has good privacy. There are multiple port a potties here but some sites are a bit far from them."
Free amenities: Many campers enjoy the complimentary features at Trap Pond. One camper shared, "Bike rentals are free (donations accepted) so we were able to take a ride around the pond (about 4.5 miles)." Another visitor added that the park offers "Plenty of trails for biking. Nice size campsites."
What you should know
Weather challenges: Delaware Seashore sites can experience flooding and strong winds. One reviewer warned, "The winds were nuts and over 50mph. We switched sites to spare our slide side, so caution to look at windy before going." Another camper mentioned, "It does flood in the rain."
Limited horse camping facilities: Despite the name "horse campgrounds near Tabernacle, New Jersey," equestrian camping options are scarce. None of the major campgrounds specifically advertise horse corrals or dedicated equestrian camping areas within 50 miles of Tabernacle.
Seasonal operation: Frontier Town only operates from April 12 to December 1, with peak amenities available during summer. A visitor noted, "The waterpark and most camp sites are very far. Would suggest bikes or maybe renting a golf cart while there."
Varying bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality differs significantly between campgrounds. At Trap Pond, "Bathhouses are located in the A and C loops plus additional ones by the tent camping area. All seemed to be reasonably clean," while at Blackbird State Forest, "There are a couple portapotties in the camping area, which are a few feet from one campsite, or a few blocks from another."
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Families particularly enjoy Frontier Town's water amenities. A reviewer stated, "They have a water park that is included in your stay. The activities are great and you're only minutes away from ocean city or Assateague State Park. Where the ponies run wild."
Kids' activities: Delaware Seashore State Park Campground offers child-friendly features. One visitor mentioned, "If you have kiddos, try and get a site in Loop A – there is a nice and educational play area (plus a game I'd never heard of– Gaga ball). There is an additional playground in the day-use area."
Nature education: Several parks provide learning opportunities for children. At Trap Pond, "There is also a nature center" and Delaware Seashore features "a large and modern playground" making it suitable for families wanting educational outdoor experiences.
Bug preparation: Remember insect protection, especially in forested areas. As one camper noted, "Being near the water means the bugs really came out at night so make sure to turn off the outside lights after dark."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RVers should prepare for leveling challenges at some campgrounds. At Trap Pond, one RVer mentioned, "Sites are fairly spacious and have an interesting semi-circle pull through layout so backing in not required. They are not level and have a sandy base so it took a bit of work to finally get the rig level, even with auto-levelers."
Space considerations: Delaware Seashore sites may be tight for larger rigs. According to a reviewer, "Sites were very well marked. Friendly staff. Sites were a bit tight; I believe online it says they're 45x30 but I find that hard to believe. Our trailer is almost 38 feet and we only had a little room left over."
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer varying levels of hookups. At Trap Pond, "There are 129 sites with water and electricity," while Delaware Seashore provides "Full hook up sites and pull-through" options, making it suitable for RVers requiring complete services.
