Best Campgrounds near Pemberton, NJ
Campgrounds near Pemberton in New Jersey's Pine Barrens region provide diverse camping experiences within the state's distinctive forested landscape. Wharton State Forest offers several established camping areas including Atsion Family Camp and Goshen Pond Campground, both rated highly for their water access and natural surroundings. The area features a mix of accommodation types, from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots and rental cabins. Several campgrounds like Brendan Byrne State Forest and Turkey Swamp Park maintain seasonal operations year-round, while others such as Batona Campground operate from April through October.
Most state forest campgrounds enforce specific regulations, including no-alcohol policies and quiet hours. Water access remains a major attraction, with sites near Atsion Lake and Mullica River particularly popular among paddlers and anglers. Facilities range from primitive sites with basic toilets to developed campgrounds with showers, electric hookups and dump stations. Summer weekends tend to fill quickly, especially at water-accessible sites, making advance reservations essential during peak season. One camper noted, "Looking for a place to escape without having to drive out of your way to get to? Lower Forge is the place. One of the few places in New Jersey you have to backpack into with access from either Atsion or Batsto."
The Pine Barrens ecosystem creates a unique camping backdrop with its sandy soil, pine forests, and tea-colored streams. Many campgrounds feature spacious sites with fire rings and picnic tables, though amenities vary significantly between locations. Primitive sites in Wharton State Forest appeal to those seeking solitude, while family-friendly options like Butterfly Camping Resort offer more amenities including swimming pools and organized activities. Several visitors mentioned the excellent kayaking and canoeing opportunities as standout features. "This campground has been family run for over 50-years and has an interesting history," shared one reviewer about a local campground. Sites with lake access (particularly at Atsion Recreation Area) are consistently rated highest, allowing campers to paddle directly from their campsite to explore the region's interconnected waterways.