Pemberton Township sits within the unique Pine Barrens region at about 60 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate. Winter camping options remain available here when many other New Jersey destinations close down, with temperatures averaging 30-40°F between December and February. Sandy soil creates firm, well-draining campsites even after heavy rainfall.
What to Do
Watercraft activities: Wading River runs through Wharton State Forest providing multiple launch points for canoes and kayaks. Hawkins Bridge Campground offers water access behind Group Campsite A. "Did a two day Canoe tour down the wading river and used the outfitter Micks Canoe. We started Friday night camping at Hawkins Bridge campground. This is a primitive campsite near the river," notes Thomas M.
Family village exploration: Visit the historic buildings at Allaire State Park, a 20-minute drive from Pemberton. "Working village and antique train are available most of the year. There are also lots of festivals throughout the summer months," explains Beau B.
Mountain biking trails: Allaire State Park offers varied terrain suitable for all skill levels within 30 minutes of Pemberton. "Mountain Biking from easy, paved trails to several miles of single track with everything in between," reports Beau B., making it an excellent day trip from your campsite.
Winter activities: Turkey Swamp Park offers ice skating on the lake during freezing months. "Bring your bow and shoot at the hay barrels. Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods," recommends Patrick M.
What Campers Like
Spacious, wooded campsites: Brendan Byrne State Forest provides well-spaced sites with natural screening. "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. Showers and bathrooms are ok, kept pretty clean. Lots of good hiking trails, most the sites have pretty decent privacy from the other ones," notes Dan M.
River-adjacent sites: Some campsites at Atsion Family Camp feature direct lake or river access. "LOVE!!!! I always get site #8 and it has an amazing view of the lake. While camping at atsion family campground, you have free access to the recreation center (the beach and some trails)," shares Alexa L.
Soft, sandy terrain: The Pine Barrens soil provides comfortable tent platforms. "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," notes Hallie M. about Hawkins Bridge.
Year-round camping options: Many campgrounds near Pemberton remain open through winter. "Getting a cabin in the winter and going for a snowy hike is wondrful there," reports Patrick M. about his experiences at Allaire State Park.
What You Should Know
Campfire restrictions: Some campgrounds have specific rules about fire timing. "Only weird rule I saw was that fires can only go from 6pm till 7am which was odd but wasn't a deal breaker," notes Dorian P. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Traffic noise at certain sites: Washington Crossing State Park and similar locations may have highway sounds. "Close to the parkway, constant road noise," reports Dwight D. about a nearby state park.
Tick prevention essential: Sandy soil and brush harbor ticks, particularly in warmer months. "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!" warns Megan S.
Water quality varies: Carry extra water for wilderness sites. "Hawkins bridge campground. This is a primitive campsite near the river. There is water but just compost toilets that are bit few for the size campground," notes Thomas M.
Tips for Camping with Families
Halloween-themed weekends: Several campgrounds offer special fall programming. "We LOVE camping here in the fall!! They do their own haunted walk through that is just awesome! Everyone decorates. They have a dj every Saturday! Plenty of activities for the kids," shares Jessica D. about Timberland Lake Campground.
Multiple playground options: Turkey Swamp Park provides age-appropriate play areas. "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," notes Lee D.
Beach access locations: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas during summer months. "In the area there are historic buildings and ruins you get to by 'off roading' on all dirt roads. Great places to kayak and Pineland Adventures right down the street has wonderful trips!" recommends Alexa L.
Affordable alternatives: County parks often provide better value than private resorts. "Great campground! Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest. Sites are tent and RV sites and you are allowed to have a tent on the site with an RV at no extra charge," shares Katheryn N.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions for large rigs: Some campgrounds have sandy, narrow access roads. "They were well-maintained and in dry weather, not a problem, but probably not if it was rainy," notes Lee D. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Hookup considerations: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers full services within 45 minutes of Pemberton. "This is a great KOA with full hook ups, tent sites, cabins, and even glamping cabins. There is a pool that is open Memorial Day-Labor Day. They also have a catch and release pond," shares Travyl Couple!
Site selection for privacy: Request wooded sites when booking glamping options close to Pemberton, New Jersey. "This campground was so well maintained. There was so much to do there a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow and even more. They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget," reports Nicole S.
Hose length planning: Water connections may be distant from parking pads. "Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose," advises Shawn from Turkey Swamp Park.
