Best Tent Camping near Somers Point, NJ
Tent campsites in the Wharton State Forest provide the primary options for tent camping near Somers Point, New Jersey. Located within the Pine Barrens ecosystem approximately 30 miles northwest of Somers Point, these campgrounds offer a variety of primitive and established tent sites. Goshen Pond, Batona, and Mullica River campgrounds feature tent-specific areas with varying levels of accessibility and amenities. Shellbay Campgrounds in Cape May Court House, about 20 miles south of Somers Point, also accommodates tent campers seeking proximity to coastal attractions.
Most tent campgrounds in the region feature sandy soil characteristic of the Pine Barrens, creating naturally soft tent pads but requiring proper staking. Walk-in tent locations are common, particularly at Goshen Pond where campers park and carry gear a short distance to their sites. Potable water is available at select campgrounds including Batona and Red Wing Lakes, while others offer only basic facilities with pit toilets or vault latrines. The camping season typically runs from April 1 to October 31, with some locations like Shellbay extending slightly later into fall. Fire rings are provided at most sites, though campers should verify current fire restrictions before arrival.
The Pine Barrens tent camping experience offers unique ecological features and relative seclusion. Sites at Goshen Pond and Batona provide direct access to hiking trails, including the 50-mile Batona Trail that connects multiple campgrounds. One camper noted that "the ground is soft and comfortable to sleep on, not rocky at all, like almost weird how few rocks there are," highlighting the distinctive sandy terrain. Tent campers should be prepared for the region's abundant wildlife, including ticks which several reviewers mentioned as requiring vigilance. Primitive backcountry sites like Mullica River campground require either hiking or paddling to access, creating greater solitude but demanding more preparation. During weekdays and off-season periods, even the more established tent campgrounds remain peaceful with minimal crowding.