The New Jersey Pine Barrens region surrounding Toms River features sandy soil, pitch pine forests, and cedar-stained waterways across its 1.1 million acres. Campgrounds in this area typically operate from April through November, with summer temperatures averaging 85°F during peak season. Winter camping options exist at select sites but require additional preparation for nighttime temperatures that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Kayaking and boating: Brendan T. Byrne State Forest offers access to the Wading River with launch points from campsites. One visitor noted, "Our site was right on Wading River and we launched our kayaks right at the site! Our tent has a full view of the sky and at night it was like a planetarium as we admired the sky from our cots."
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park maintains an archery range for visitors to practice their skills. A reviewer commented, "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from."
Winter activities: Some campgrounds remain open year-round with seasonal activities. One camper at Allaire State Park shared, "Getting a cabin in the winter and going for a snowy hike is wonderful there," while another Turkey Swamp visitor mentioned, "Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods."
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: The campgrounds near Toms River typically feature generously sized sites with natural screening. A visitor to Turkey Swamp Park described, "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy. A lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring complete each site."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses. At Atsion Family Camp, reviewers consistently mentioned cleanliness: "The bathrooms were clean and warm. There is a lot to do in the area."
River tubing: Water activities remain popular with visitors. A camper at Wading Pines Camping Resort wrote, "The river is right there to go tubing or kayaking. Playground is cool. They allow golfcarts which is a plus in my book," while another added, "Have someone drop you off at Hawkins Bridge and float down to the campground. A little over 2 hour ride."
What you should know
Bug preparation: Insects can be problematic in some areas, especially near water. One Turkey Swamp visitor warned, "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2. That was so crazy because we were just sitting by our camper."
Seasonal differences: Campground experiences vary dramatically by season. A visitor to Brendan T. Byrne noted, "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!"
Site conditions: Many campgrounds have natural rather than improved surfaces. A Sea Pirate Campground visitor observed, "The sites are sandy dirt—no gravel or concrete. This makes things extremely dirty whether it's dry or raining."
Tips for camping with families
Look for themed weekends: Many campgrounds offer special activities. A Sea Pirate Campground visitor explained, "Halloween fun was really good. Many kids grade school and elementary level enjoyed the dance. The sites were decorated and they had trick or treating."
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Several sites offer dedicated play areas. A Turkey Swamp visitor commented, "Centralized playground for the kids with bathrooms and showers next door. Staff was awesome! Attentive and outgoing."
Consider proximity to attractions: Location matters for family outings. A camper at Timberland Lake Campground shared, "This campground is conveniently located near six flags (5min), Sesame Place (40 min) and Philadelphia (60 min). Campground has friendly staff and plenty of activities for children of all ages."
Tips from RVers
Water hookup variations: Connection quality varies between campgrounds. A Sea Pirate visitor cautioned, "We had a problem with our site: extremely low water pressure, often below 20 PSI. It was so low at times, that we couldn't take showers or flush the toilet."
Pack extra hoses: Some sites require longer-than-standard connections. A reviewer noted at Turkey Swamp Park, "Nice, remote, private. Some sites unlevel. Bring a LONG water hose. Nice lake. Showers and washers and dryers."
Check road conditions: Interior roads at some campgrounds present challenges. A visitor to Timberland Lake Campground warned, "This is a wooded campground with potholes that can swallow a small trailer. Truly a campground that has lost the battle with seasonal camping slobs."
