Best Campgrounds near Southampton, NJ
The Pine Barrens region surrounding Southampton, New Jersey features extensive camping opportunities within Wharton State Forest, one of the largest state forests in New Jersey. Atsion Family Campground, located about 10 miles southeast of Southampton, provides 50 camping sites with amenities including restrooms, showers, and drinking water spigots. Nearby Goshen Pond and Batona campgrounds offer more secluded experiences with water access for kayaking and canoeing. The area's camping options range from primitive tent sites to RV-compatible locations with varying hookup availability. Several campgrounds provide lakeside sites that are particularly popular during summer months, with Brendan Byrne State Forest offering year-round camping options approximately 15 miles northeast of Southampton.
Sandy terrain characterizes many campgrounds in the region, creating both advantages and challenges for campers. As one visitor to Atsion Family Campground noted, "The ground is sandy and relatively level for easy camp set up." However, another camper mentioned that after rain, "our site was sandy dirt which created a bit of a mess." Most state forest campgrounds have limited or no electrical hookups, making them better suited for self-sufficient camping. Cell service varies throughout the area, typically described as "low but manageable" at Wharton State Forest locations. Reservations are essential during peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day), with many waterfront sites booking months in advance. The camping season for some facilities is limited to April through October, while others remain open year-round.
Waterfront sites consistently receive the highest praise from visitors, particularly at Atsion where sites 4, 8, 10, 12, 20, and 22 offer direct lake access. A frequent camper remarked, "I always get site #8 and it has an amazing view of the lake." The Pine Barrens environment provides a unique backdrop for camping with its characteristic pine forests and tea-colored streams. Many campgrounds offer access to hiking trails, including the Batona Trail which connects several camping areas. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, though privacy between sites varies considerably. Campers frequently mention the spaciousness of sites at Wharton State Forest campgrounds, with one visitor noting, "While we were surrounded by other campers, we enjoyed how private it was!" Facilities typically include fire rings, picnic tables, and access to potable water, with shower availability varying by location.
