Brendan Byrne State Forest provides equestrian camping near Williamstown, New Jersey within 37,000 acres of the distinctive Pine Barrens ecosystem. The campground requires reservations in advance with sites starting at $20 per night. Camping areas feature vault toilets and potable water access points throughout the grounds, with campsites positioned along sand roads that provide direct trail access for riders.
What to do
Ride local trails year-round: Brendan Byrne State Forest offers numerous trail options for horseback riding in all seasons. "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," notes Lindsay D., who appreciates the accessibility of hiking trails directly from campsites.
Explore multi-use paths: The forest contains several trail loops varying in length from 2-10 miles, accommodating different riding abilities and time constraints. "Lots of good hiking trails, most the sites have pretty decent privacy from the other ones," explains Dan M., highlighting the well-maintained trail network throughout the forest.
Visit nearby attractions: Lums Pond State Park Campground offers additional outdoor activities within driving distance. "Great park setting with fantastic site—spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved," reports Matt S., who also mentions "Great state park with lots to do (kayaking, biking, and more)."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathroom facilities. "Very well maintained campsites and facilities," writes Marcus N. about Brendan Byrne. "The bathrooms were clean and the staff was friendly. They do patrol the sites with a police presence in the evening," adds Jesse G.
Site privacy: Blackbird State Forest Campground provides spacious sites with good separation. "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return!" reports Sarah M., highlighting the private feel of the camping experience.
Quiet atmosphere: The remote location creates a peaceful environment. "It's far away from traffic noise. You can't hear any cars or any other noise from civilization at all," notes a camper about Brendan Byrne State Forest. Another camper mentions, "First off, I will start by saying you have to drive a good amount of distance to get into the campground and that is something I really enjoyed! Made me feel super secluded."
What you should know
Campfire regulations: Fire restrictions apply with specific hours allowed for campfires. "Only weird rule I saw was that fires can only go from 6pm till 7am which was odd but wasn't a deal breaker," states Dorian P. regarding Brendan Byrne's fire policies.
Tick prevention essential: The Pine Barrens region has significant tick activity, especially during warmer months. "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks! Overall a great time," advises Megan S., emphasizing the importance of protective clothing and regular tick checks for both humans and horses.
Campsite selection: Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area offers alternative equestrian camping options with specific requirements. "There are two primitive youth group camping areas. There are specific rules that need to be followed and the guidelines are on the website," explains Gen F.
Tips for camping with families
Water access planning: Arrange campsites near water sources when visiting with children and animals. "Very Decent Camp in the Pine Barrens, Lots of potable water hydrants around the campground so not far of a walk to fill any water needs you may have," advises Dan M. about Brendan Byrne.
Playground availability: Some nearby campgrounds offer additional family amenities. "Our daughter really enjoyed the playground (which was excellent, by my standards)," shares Mark about their experience at Lums Pond State Park.
Hiking with kids: Lums Pond State Park provides family-friendly trails. "The trails were well marked, and the day we took a hike, we ended up on the equestrian trail that runs all the way around the pond. It was a long, but easy hike," notes Mark, describing accessible terrain for families with children.
Tips from RVers
Site regulations: Be aware of specific RV rules that may limit additional camping setups. "If using an RV in a tent site you are not allowed to add another tent to the site. There is a two tent limit per site despite the site allowing up to 6 people," cautions Jesse G. about Brendan Byrne's sometimes confusing regulations.
Hookup availability: Plan for limited or no hookups at most equestrian sites. At Blackbird State Forest, a camper notes, "Each site has a fire pit, a grill, and two tables with a decent amount of space for tents," but mentions no hookups for RVs, requiring self-containment.
Winter camping considerations: Some parks remain open year-round but with seasonal limitations. "In February, about 1/4 of the sites were occupied. It was very quiet. The sites are large and well spaced. Many are in full sun," reports Adam and Suzanne B. about winter camping conditions.
