Camping options near Vincentown, New Jersey center primarily around the Pine Barrens region with its distinctive sandy terrain and cedar water creeks. The area sits at approximately 50 feet above sea level with a typical mid-Atlantic climate featuring humid summers reaching into the 90s and relatively mild winters. Several campgrounds operate with varying accessibility requirements, from drive-in sites with minimal facilities to more developed areas featuring drinking water and designated camping areas.
What to do
Kayaking on the Wading River: Put in at Hawkins Bridge and travel downstream through the distinctive blackwater river. "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," notes Thomas M., who adds, "Wading river has a nice flow. It's a dark black river from the tannins."
Hiking the Batona Trail: Access this well-maintained trail directly from campsites in the state forest. "The camp road was kinda hard to get around direction wise you couldn't tell what was a road and what was a campsite," reports Aly E. about Batona Campground. Meghan G. adds, "Best part of this campground is trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible."
Wildlife spotting: Keep an eye out for the diverse bird species and wildlife throughout the Pine Barrens. "It is so easy to get lost in these woods and I LOVE IT! I grew up near the pine barrens and would camp here many times with friends. If you want off the beaten path and not close to anyone... this is IT!" shares Alyssa D. about her experiences in the area.
What campers like
Natural swimming spots: Several waterways and ponds provide swimming opportunities during hot months. "It's also a 5 minute drive from Atsion lake, a great place for kayaking and swimming," recommends Anna D. about Goshen Pond Campground.
Remote camping experience: Many sites offer genuine seclusion despite proximity to urban areas. "The boyfriend and I stayed for a weekend at one of the primitive tent sites. Our site was private and secluded. We had a great time," shares Ashley R. about her stay at Goshen Pond.
Sandy terrain for comfortable tent setup: The unique soil composition creates ideal conditions for pitching tents. "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle," notes Meghan G., while another camper adds, "Sites are suitable for tents or small campers. The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit."
What you should know
Water access varies significantly: Some sites require carrying in water while others have pumps. "Each campsite is a cleared area with a fire pit. Bathrooms are very basic. Fresh water pump is located at entrance to campground," notes Meghan G. about Batona Campground.
Insects can be problematic: Ticks and chiggers are prevalent, particularly in warmer months. "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 Eldad K. from Bodine Field Campground.
Many sites lack modern facilities: Most campgrounds feature basic amenities only. "Very rustic and secluded, no showers/running water. Outhouses all around the campground," reports Adeline K. She adds, "Best during the week when not very many campers/groups are around."
Tips for camping with families
Weekday camping offers more space: Sites become crowded on weekends but are often nearly empty midweek. "Most of the campsites are kind of on top of each other besides a few and most of the group sites," notes Adeline K. about Bodine Field, adding that it's "best during the week when not very many campers/groups are around."
Consider primitive group sites: Several campgrounds offer designated areas for larger family gatherings. "We stayed at a primative group campsite during Philly Questival. Each site was clearly labeled and flat with a fire pit. It definitely met our needs!" shares Jennesys A. about her experience at Batona Campground.
Prepare for sandy roads: Many access roads consist of loose sand that can challenge some vehicles. "The unique ecosystem of the barrens give campers some advantages: the ground is soft and comfortable to sleep on (NOT rocky at all, like almost weird how few rocks there are). It also means that there is plenty of kindling to gather for fires," explains Hallie M. about Mullica River Campground.
Tips for RVers
Limited RV-friendly options: Few tent campsites near Vincentown accommodate larger recreational vehicles. "The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit," warns Meghan G. about access to Batona Campground.
Consider Tip Tam for RV camping: This private campground offers full hookups for RVs. "Tip Tam Campground is close to central Jersey shore and Great Adventure. While mostly a seasonal campground there are several transiat sites with full hookup," reports Brian S. about Tip Tam Camping Resort, adding, "This campground is well managed and it shows. All sites are well maintained and cared for."
Early morning noise: Be prepared for early risers at developed campgrounds. "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," warns Bill V. about his experience at Tip Tam Camping Resort.
