Camping near Wall, New Jersey offers a mix of coastal and woodland experiences within an hour's drive. The region's sandy soil creates distinctive camping conditions, with temperature variations from coastal breezes to inland Pine Barrens heat. Most tent campsites near Wall are situated in state forests or along the Atlantic coast with seasonal availability from April through October.
What to Do
Water activities at Tip Tam: Campers can enjoy swimming in the pool at Tip Tam Camping Resort, though some find it "very cold" according to a reviewer. The campground also features pedal cars for kids and mini-golf options. "The place was fun... they have peddle cars and playgrounds," notes Jenn M.
Historical exploration at Washington Crossing: Visit the historic sites where George Washington crossed the Delaware River. "Washington's crossing is beautiful and historic. We often bike along the canal there. There are farms and animals to see, hikes along the Delaware river, Bowman's tower with a great view of the surrounding area," reports Olivia M. at Washington Crossing State Park.
Pine Barrens hiking: The 50-mile Batona Trail connects several campgrounds in Wharton State Forest. "Trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible," according to meghan G. about the Pine Barrens paths at Batona Campground.
Kayaking access: Launch directly from your campsite at some locations. "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," notes Anna D. about camping near water.
What Campers Like
Sandy terrain for comfortable sleeping: The Pine Barrens' sandy ground creates natural padding. "There is a little river area within the site which is fun. Very sandy area," reports a camper at Bodine Field Campground. This unique soil type provides natural cushioning for tent setups.
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer secluded spots. "Our site was private and secluded. We had a great time," shares Ashley R. about Goshen Pond Campground. The natural tree coverage creates separation between campsites.
Family-friendly activities: Organized events keep children entertained. "Great place for kids. They have peddle cars and playgrounds. They deliver wood to your site by the truck full! Nice little store and staff are all friendly," notes Jenn M. about Tip Tam's amenities.
Proximity to NYC: Some coastal campgrounds provide easy access to urban areas. "Quiet, practical location to launch an exploration into NY City... With views from the campsite looking out to the sea, the skyline of NYC on the left & NJ on the right, it was awe inspiring," explains Susan B. about the strategic location of Sandy Hook.
What You Should Know
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Most forest campgrounds have minimal amenities. "The campground is rustic with two outhouses and one water source with a hand-powered pump," explains a Batona Campground visitor. Pack accordingly for these basic conditions.
Sand roads require attention: Access to some campgrounds involves driving on loose sand. "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle," advises meghan G. about Batona Campground.
Seasonal operation: Most tent campsites near Wall, New Jersey operate from April 1 through October 31. Wharton State Forest campgrounds and many coastal sites close during winter months.
Early morning noise: Some campgrounds become active very early. "The only downside I saw was people here are up way too early. 7am place was already loud. 7:45am a propane truck pulled in... 8am people with leaf blowers and chopping wood. Don't expect to sleep past 7:30am," warns Bill V. at Tip Tam Camping Resort.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for supervised swimming: Campgrounds with monitored water activities provide safer options for children. "Small campground right on the Batons Trail. Water is seasonal. Be bear aware," notes Trip Over Life about Batona Campground facilities.
Consider distance to bathrooms: With children, proximity to facilities matters. "Small but clean. Stayed for a night and enjoyed our experience. Bathrooms were clean and the pool was nice but very cold!" reports Jojo P. about the facilities at Tip Tam.
Check for insect activity: Ticks and chiggers are common 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. about camping in the Pine Barrens.
Plan for temperature shifts: Coastal sites can be significantly cooler than inland locations, even in summer. "The pool area closes at 6pm that's too early I think," notes Jose G., highlighting the importance of having alternative evening activities planned when facilities close early.
Tips from RVers
Small RV access only at forest sites: Pine Barrens campgrounds have limitations. "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," cautions meghan G. about Batona Campground.
Full hookups at private campgrounds: Some commercial sites offer complete services. "Small campground in the woods 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.
Size restrictions on roads: Access to many sites involves narrow forest roads. "The camp road was kinda hard to get around direction wise you couldn't tell what was a road and what was a campsite," shares Aly E. about navigation challenges at Batona Campground.
Wheelbarrow gear transport: At some locations, parking areas are separate from campsites. "Only cars are permitted in the campground, so you will have to lug your gear to your spot so choose wisely," notes a camper about equipment transportation requirements at coastal sites.
