Tent campsites near Stone Harbor, New Jersey feature sandy pine barrens soil and are generally only accessible from April through October when temperatures range between 55-85°F. Most camping options are located within a 30-45 minute drive from Stone Harbor, in the Pine Barrens where the flat terrain makes for easy hiking but can become buggy during summer months. Camping permits for Wharton State Forest locations cost $20-25 per night with a two-night minimum on summer weekends.
What to do
Kayaking at Goshen Pond: Put in directly next to your campsite at Goshen Pond for easy water access. "Our site was right next to the Mullica River, and had excellent views if you walked just a couple steps from the tent. We were able to put our kayaks in right next to the site which was very convenient," reports one camper. The pond connects to the broader Mullica River system.
Swimming at nearby beaches: From Shellbay Campgrounds, beaches are easily accessible. "Looking for a trip to the Jersey shore (near Stone Harbor, Avalon, Wildwood, Cape May, & more) - look no further than Shellbay Camping Resort," writes one reviewer. The campground provides convenient access to multiple beaches within 15-20 minutes by car or bike.
Hiking the Batona Trail: Access this 50-mile trail system from multiple campsites in Wharton State Forest. "Walked from Batson to atsion, 10 mile hike, campground was 5 miles in," notes a visitor to Mullica River Campground. The trail is mostly flat with sandy sections and passes through pine forests and cedar swamps.
What campers like
Privacy at primitive sites: Some campsites offer more seclusion than others. At Mullica River Campground, "This campground is hike-in or boat-in only, no car access. We camped here for one night on an overnight loop in Wharton State Forest." For those willing to hike in, the reward is greater solitude.
Swimming options beyond the ocean: Campgrounds often provide swimming alternatives to the beach. At Redden State Forest Campground, "The campground is beautiful, secluded, clean, and peaceful. I think it's a best kept secret," says one camper. Though slightly farther from Stone Harbor (about 60 minutes), it offers different water access.
Easy family activities: Many campgrounds offer programming for children. "I remember my excitement to go camping, meet other kids at the campground, and have plenty of things to do close by (beach, shopping, swimming pool)," recalls a former child camper at Shellbay Campgrounds. The campground's pool provides an alternative to beach days.
What you should know
Limited facilities at forest sites: Most primitive tent sites in Wharton State Forest have minimal amenities. At Bodine Field, "Potable water is available along with a couple Porta potties. Creek access, if you wanted to go kayaking," notes one camper. Another mentions, "Very rustic and secluded, no showers/running water. Outhouses all around the campground."
Seasonal factors: The camping season strictly runs April through October. "During the off season and during the week, it's very peaceful and awesome place to be. During the weekend it's very populated and tends to be pretty noisy," explains a Bodine Field camper. Weekday camping generally means quieter experiences.
Insect preparation: Beyond just ticks, multiple insects require preparation. "Great sites, great trails, lots of hiking and off road trails for dirt bike/atv/trucks. Pretty good boating/fishing. Just gotta check often for chiggers and ticks," advises a Goshen Pond visitor. Bug spray with DEET is strongly recommended.
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed sites for amenities: For families wanting more comforts, select campgrounds with facilities. "Great family-friendly campground in cape may," notes one reviewer about Shellbay Campgrounds. The swimming pool and organized activities make it suitable for children.
Avoid peak periods for quiet: School breaks and summer weekends bring crowds and noise. "Beautiful remote location w minimal amenities but 3 boy scout troops of screaming children didn't make it enjoyable," warns a Bodine Field visitor. Weekdays or shoulder seasons offer quieter family experiences.
Find age-appropriate water activities: Abbot Sawmill offers group sites near water access points. "Close to the main roads but feels remote," says one camper. The proximity to roads makes it easier for families with small children while still providing outdoor experiences.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Many forest campgrounds limit vehicle size. At Redden State Forest, "Travel trailers, pull behinds, motorhomes are not allowed. Tents, cars, overlander SUVs, minivans and small Class B camper vans are allowed. Nothing over 25 ft allowed." Always check size restrictions before booking.
Sandy ground challenges: The Pine Barrens' sandy soil can cause problems. "Originally it was very hard to first locate the site...The turn off is only labeled in one direction so keep an eye on both sides of the signs. The campsites are semi close together. Very sandy area," notes a Bodine Field camper. RVs may need traction mats.
Limited hookup options: True hookup sites are rare near Stone Harbor. One camper at Shellbay notes, "Great sites for camping with electric and water, seasonal sites with water, electric and sewer hookups and extremely well maintained grounds, paved roads, with family friendly rules to ensure enjoyment by all." This makes Shellbay one of the few viable options for larger RVs.