Brendan T. Byrne State Forest offers equestrian camping near Ocean City, New Jersey in the distinctive Pine Barrens ecosystem. Located approximately 45 minutes inland from Ocean City's beaches, this forest encompasses over 37,000 acres of Atlantic coastal pine barrens with sandy soil and flat terrain. Campground elevation averages 100 feet above sea level with temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than coastal areas during summer months.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: Brendan Byrne State Forest features numerous well-marked trails through the unique Pine Barrens landscape. "Nice and quiet, sites are spaced out enough to offer privacy. Good trees for hammocking! Plenty of room for a few tents at each site. 1 bathroom a short walk from the sites, and hiking trails are walkable," notes Lindsay D. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Experience solitude: The remote location provides a true wilderness experience not commonly found in New Jersey. Benjamin K. explains, "I grew up at this camp ground. Spent every summer here. Some of my favorite things about this place are 1) it's far away from traffic noise. You can't here 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."
Visit during fall: For those seeking colorful foliage, autumn camping offers visual rewards. Esther L. shares her experience at Brendan Byrne State Forest: "Quite site with pretty foliage," making it an ideal destination for shoulder-season equestrian camping when trails are less crowded and temperatures are moderate.
What campers like
Bathroom facilities: The maintained shower and restroom facilities receive consistent positive feedback. "The bathrooms were clean and the staff was friendly. They do patrol the sites with a police presence in the evening," reports Jesse G. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Water accessibility: Despite being in a remote forest setting, the campground provides convenient water access. Dan M. notes, "Very Decent Camp in the Pine Barrens, Lots of potable water hydrants around the campground so not far of a walk to fill any water needs you may have."
Spacious sites: Campsites offer ample room for equestrian campers to set up comfortably. Megan S. confirms, "Spacious campsite, although the closest water spigot wasn't working. Not a big problem as there are plenty of others. Bathrooms were clean."
What you should know
Tick awareness: The Pine Barrens ecosystem harbors ticks during warmer months, requiring preventative measures for both humans and horses. "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks! Overall a great time," warns Megan S. from her experience at Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Campfire regulations: The forest maintains specific fire regulations that differ from some other campgrounds. Dorian P. points out, "Only weird rule I saw was that fires can only go from 6pm till 7am which was odd but wasn't a deal breaker."
Trail sharing: Equestrian trails often intersect with other recreational uses. Vinayak Vinod C. observes, "Well maintained campground and facilities. Lot of trails nearby, though some of the trails are shared with motorized vehicles/bicyclists."
Tips for camping with families
Bring adequate water containers: While water spigots are available throughout the campground, having portable containers helps manage family needs. "Camped here many of times. Very Decent Camp in the Pine Barrens, Lots of potable water hydrants around the campground so not far of a walk to fill any water needs you may have," recommends Dan M. from Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Pack extra supplies: Though remote, convenience stores can be found within driving distance. Dorian P. notes, "There is a good amount of trails and a wawa down the street if you forgot anything for your trip."
Understand site limitations: Families should carefully review site restrictions before booking. Jesse G. cautions, "The rules of the campsites are ambiguous on the website and when we first arrived were unaware that if using an RV in a tent site you are not allowed to add another tent to the site. There is a two tent limit per site despite the site allowing up to 6 people."
Tips from RVers
Plan for remoteness: The campground's distance from major roadways requires preparation. "First off, I will start by saying you have to drive a good amount of distance to get into the campground and that is something I really enjoyed! Made me feel super secluded and disconnected from the outside!" shares Dorian P. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Check seasonal conditions: RVers should consider seasonal timing for optimal camping conditions. Sean W. suggests, "Went in April. Allows dogs after a deposit. Must purchase their firewood. Good bathrooms/showers. Great location for hitting the 4x4 trails."
Verify site specifications: Site dimensions and regulations vary throughout the campground. Marcus N. recommends checking in advance: "Great place for a weekend getaway. Very well maintained campsites and facilities."
