Tent camping near Thorofare, New Jersey sits within the Atlantic Coastal Plain, characterized by flat to gently rolling terrain with elevations rarely exceeding 100 feet above sea level. The region experiences humid subtropical climate conditions with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Pine forests dominate the landscape, creating natural wind barriers and shade cover at most tent sites in the area.
What to do
Explore water activities: Chamber's Lake at Hibernia County Park offers paddling opportunities with restrictions on motorized watercraft. "The lake is about a 3 minute hike down the clearly marked trails. The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," notes Anna, who visited with children ranging from 3-12 years old.
Bird watching: The area attracts diverse bird species, particularly at Fort Washington State Park where dedicated observation platforms exist. "From this very spot you can view the beautiful raptors that migrate here on a seasonal basis in both the Spring and Autumn, wherein you can view their splendor from the wonderfully built Observation Deck," writes Stuart K.
Historic sites exploration: Washington Crossing State Park preserves Revolutionary War history with interpretive programs. "Visit the park's historic reenactments, especially the Christmas Day Crossing event as it's easily the most memorable history lesson you'll ever get outdoors," recommends one visitor who appreciates the educational aspects of camping in this region.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Many tent campers near Thorofare appreciate secluded sites that provide separation from other groups. At Batona Campground in Wharton State Forest, "While the individual campsites appear to be somewhat close together and the campground area is very open, there were few other campers during our visit, and privacy was not an issue," reports Brittany L.
Natural surfaces: The flat, pine-needle covered ground makes for comfortable tent pitching. "The entire campground is fairly shaded by the pines, and the ground is flat throughout. The back of the campground backs up to a beautiful creek/swamp, and the Batona trail runs through the campground," notes the same visitor.
Trail access: Direct trail connections from campsites ranks highly among tent campers in the region. "Best part of this campground is trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible," writes Meghan G. about Mullica River Campground.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Many tent sites near Thorofare require advance reservations, particularly for group camping areas. At Fort Washington, "You must reserve both Friday & Saturday nights" during the annual Old Fiddlers Picnic, while Hibernia County Park operates differently: "Sites can be reserved online, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Hibernia County Park only opens "on the weekends, in season" from May to October, which creates competition for sites during peak periods.
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Be prepared for rustic facilities at many tent sites. At Ridley Creek State Park, "There is only group tenting here," according to MsTrailBlazer, while Hibernia offers "porta potties are very clean and don't smell and are lit with a street lamp. Very quiet at night."
Wildlife awareness: Ticks remain a common concern for tent campers in New Jersey pine forests. "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," warns Eldad K. about camping in the pine barrens.
Tips for camping with families
Easy terrain exploration: The generally flat landscape makes hiking accessible for younger children. "Easy hike. We found a lot of really unique sites around the park. Will keep going back," writes Andrea R. about Evansburg State Park, where trails follow gentle terrain.
Kid-friendly fishing: Several campgrounds maintain designated fishing areas for children. At Hibernia County Park, the "children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," while another parent noted, "Since he was 2 years old I've taken my son, and we always have an amazing time, either hiking the trails to wandering in the woods looking for 'adventures'."
Playground access: Some campgrounds include dedicated play areas. "There's running water available, porta potties are very clean and don't smell and are lit with a street lamp. Very quiet at night. The park ranger this weekend was the nicest and very helpful with directions to walk to the playground," reports a family that visited Hibernia County Park with children.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most tent camping areas near Thorofare have limitations for larger vehicles. At Alverthorpe Private Park, "this is not a spot for RVs or 5th Wheelers" according to Stuart K., while another camper notes about Hibernia, "I wouldn't attempt to park an RV up there."
Limited hookups: RV campers should prepare for self-contained camping. "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank," advises Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park. The same camper notes, "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee."
Access challenges: Some campgrounds near Thorofare require gear hauling from parking areas. "Reaching the camping area involves navigating uneven steps as you won't be able to drive to your actual campsite," reports a visitor to Alverthorpe, while at Hibernia, "We camp in a 28ft 5th wheel... though at first glance the sites don't look big enough to house an RV, there are a few sites that will, including #3, #17 & #18 and plenty of sites will fit a small RV or pop up camper."
