Tent camping near Toms River provides access to New Jersey's iconic Pine Barrens, a region spanning over 1.1 million acres with elevations rarely exceeding 200 feet above sea level. The area's sandy soil creates natural drainage that makes for generally dry camping conditions even after rainfall. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F while spring and fall nights can drop into the 40s.
What to do
Kayaking the Wading River: Access points near Hawkins Bridge — Wharton State Forest provide entry to one of the area's signature waterways. "Did a two day Canoe tour down the wading river and used the outfitter Micks Canoe. We started Friday night camping at Hawkins Bridge campground," reports one visitor who adds that the "Wading river has a nice flow. It's a dark black river from the tannins."
Hiking the Batona Trail: This 50-mile trail connects multiple campgrounds and natural areas, with several access points within 30 minutes of Toms River. A camper at Batona — Wharton State Forest notes, "The Batona Campground is in the northern area of the Wharton State Forest and is a bit removed from most trails and other campgrounds in the park."
Swimming at Atsion Lake: Located approximately 35 minutes from Toms River, this natural swimming area offers a beach and calm waters. One camper from Goshen Pond mentions, "It's also a 5 minute drive from Atsion lake, a great place for kayaking and swimming."
What campers like
Direct trail access: Several campgrounds provide immediate trail connections without driving. At Batona — Wharton State Forest, a reviewer appreciated that "Best part of this campground is trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible."
Natural sand camping surfaces: The Pine Barrens' sandy soil creates naturally comfortable tent sites. A camper at Bodine Field — Wharton State Forest describes it as "Very open basically sandy field with a handful of trees in the middle, group sites available. You're right next to the wading river/creek with that amazing cedar water."
River proximity: Many tent sites sit close to waterways, allowing for convenient access. A visitor to Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest shared, "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."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most Pine Barrens tent camping areas offer minimal amenities. At Mullica River — Wharton State Forest, a camper reports it "has a pump to get water and 2 outhouses (hold your breath)."
Tick awareness: Several campers report heavy tick presence in warm months. One reviewer at Goshen Pond advised "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."
Brown water color is natural: The distinctive dark water in Pine Barrens streams results from natural tannins, not pollution. A camper at Mullica River explained, "Batsto River provides plenty of water for filtering--don't be weirded out by the brown color caused by tannins."
Tips for camping with families
Consider developed campgrounds: For families wanting more amenities near Toms River, Tip Tam Camping Resort offers structured activities. "The place was fun.. they have peddle cars and playgrounds. They deliver wood to your site by the truck full! Nice little store and staff are all friendly," writes one camper.
Mid-week visits for solitude: Weekends bring more campers, particularly to established sites. One visitor to Bodine Field advises, "During the off season is in 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."
Wild blueberry picking: Children enjoy gathering wild blueberries throughout the Pine Barrens during summer months. A Mullica River camper shares, "Wild blueberries abound during summer months!"
Tips from RVers
Concrete pads available: Military personnel and veterans can access the NWS Earle RV Park with fully developed sites. "All spaces are level concrete With fill hookups and attached concrete patio. Power is at the far back & sewage is in the middle (left to right). A longer camper will be parked over the sewage connection," notes one RVer.
Limited big rig access: Most Pine Barrens campgrounds have narrow, sandy roads that restrict large RVs. At Batona Campground, a camper observed that "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle. Site are suitable for tents or small campers. The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit."
Early morning noise: Some more developed campgrounds near Toms River have early risers. One reviewer at Tip Tam Camping Resort cautions, "The only downside I saw was people here are up way to early. 7am place was already loud. 7:45am a propane truck pulled in the full the propane and was extremely loud. 8am people with leaf blowers and chopping wood. Don't expect to sleep past 7:30am."
