Wharton State Forest encompasses the majority of camping options near Vincentown, New Jersey, with over 120,000 acres of protected Pine Barrens ecosystem. This unique landscape features acidic waters with a pH between 4.0-5.5, creating the distinctive tea-colored rivers and streams that run through campgrounds. Primitive camping areas offer sandy soil that's surprisingly comfortable for tent setup, with temperature swings of up to 30°F between day and night in spring and fall.
What to do
Kayak the Wading River: Launch from Hawkins Bridge — Wharton State Forest for a peaceful paddle through the Pine Barrens. The water appears black from natural tannins, not pollution. "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. This is a primitive campsite near the river," reports Thomas M.
Explore historic sites: Washington Crossing State Park offers historical exhibits and trails just 45 minutes from Vincentown. "Every year, they re-enact Washington's troops crossing the Delaware! It was VERY cold the year I went. To warm up, there is a small visitor's center where they have a reproduction of the famous painting commemorating the moment," mentions David S.
Fish in peaceful settings: Most campgrounds in the area offer fishing opportunities, with bass being common catches in the local waters. At Old Cedar Campground, visitors report great fishing experiences. "The grandchildren were able to play miniature golf, swim in the pool (they had pool toys to borrow) fish (and yes they caught bass)," notes Craig W.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Brendan Byrne State Forest campers appreciate the natural spacing between campsites. "Nice and quiet, sites are spaced out enough to offer privacy. Good trees for hammocking! Plenty of room for a few tents at each site," Lindsay D. explains. This forest setting provides a more secluded experience compared to commercial campgrounds.
Quick access to beaches: While camping in the Pine Barrens, you're only 30-45 minutes from New Jersey beaches. "Wharton Forest has several campgrounds. We tent camped at Atsion in 2015: had flush toilets and was close to the checkin station/store as well as the beach on the lake. Some sites were right on the water and the sites were very big," shares Dina S.
Seasonal festivities: Fall camping offers unique experiences with Halloween-themed events. "We LOVE camping here in the fall!! They do their own haunted walk through that is just awesome! Everyone decorates. They have a dj every Saturday! Plenty of activities for the kids. They have cool raffles!" Jessica D. mentions about Timberland Lake Campground.
What you should know
Different water quality: The Pine Barrens' acidic water gives rivers a dark appearance that surprises first-time visitors. "These decaying trees give the rivers in the barrens its signature dark color (it's not dangerous or sewage, it's completely natural)," explains Hallie M. about Hawkins Bridge.
Tick awareness: Be prepared for ticks, especially in warmer months. "But 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," warns LAURA Y. at Turkey Swamp Park.
Bathhouse conditions vary: Some campgrounds have limited bathroom facilities. At Hawkins Bridge, a camper notes "There is water but just compost toilets that are bit few for the size campground," while another mentions Brendan Byrne has "showers were a little spidery but kind of expected at a campground."
Tips for camping with families
Look for camp activity schedules: Many campgrounds near Vincentown offer organized kids' activities. "Every Saturday they had an organized activity for the kids…. EVERYONE was extremely friendly," shares a reviewer about Old Cedar Campground.
Consider yurt camping: For families new to Vincentown, New Jersey's camping scene, yurt camping provides a comfortable introduction. Wading Pines Camping Resort offers yurt accommodations with electricity, making it easier for families with young children. "We loved this campground. Friendly staff. Plenty for the kids to do. The river is right there to go tubing or kayaking. Playground is cool," reports Arnold M.
Select waterfront sites when possible: At Atsion, "LOVE!!!! I always get site #8 and it has an amazing view of the lake. While camping at atsion family campground, you have free access to the recreation center (the beach and some trails)," recommends Alexa L.
Tips from RVers
Bring extra water hoses: Some campgrounds have shared water hookups. "The water hookups are shared every other site (at least in the Fence Loop). I was lucky my 75' hose barely reached the distance needed. Be sure to bring extra hoses," advises Matt S. about Old Cedar Campground.
Check site dimensions carefully: Many of the older campgrounds weren't designed for larger modern RVs. Adventure Bound Camping reviews mention, "This place is not big-rig friendly, difficult to navigate some of the turns in our 45' motorhome and taking scratches from tree branches that should be trimmed."
Reserve pull-through sites at Turkey Swamp: The Turkey Swamp Park campground offers convenient pull-through sites. "Sites in Loops B-E all have pull-thru driveways. Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy," notes Lee D. This makes setup much easier for RV campers visiting the Vincentown area.
