The Pine Barrens region surrounding Williamstown, New Jersey offers tent camping opportunities across flat, sandy terrain with characteristic pine forests. The area's acidic soil creates tannin-rich streams and rivers with distinctive brown water that's safe for filtering despite its color. Camping season in this region typically runs April through October, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and high humidity levels.
What to do
Paddle the Wading River: Access points near Hawkins Bridge — Wharton State Forest allow for multi-day canoe trips with designated camping stops. One camper shared: "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."
Fish for pickerel: The dark waters at Bodine Field — Wharton State Forest provide fishing opportunities, particularly for pickerel. A camper noted: "You're right next to the wading river/creek with that amazing cedar water. As well as a quick drive Harrisville Pond which mine as well be a lake. Good fishing for pickerel as well as a decent trail that goes around the entire pond."
Hike the Batona Trail: The 50-mile trail passes directly through several campgrounds, making it easy to access multi-day backpacking trips. A camper at Mullica River described their experience: "Walked from Batson to atsion, 10 mile hike, campground was 5 miles in."
What campers like
Off-the-grid seclusion: Many tent campers appreciate the remote feel of the Pine Barrens. A visitor to Batona — Wharton State Forest shared: "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!"
Variety of access options: Campgrounds offer different levels of accessibility. One camper noted about Goshen Pond: "Really liked this campground. I like campgrounds which have you park off and walk in to your site. There is more foot traffic, but you don't hear as many cars coming and going and driving past your site all the time."
Water proximity: Many campsites offer direct water access. A visitor to Goshen Pond stated: "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
Road conditions: Sand roads can be challenging for certain vehicles. A visitor to Batona Campground noted: "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."
Wildlife concerns: Bears are active in the area, requiring proper food storage. A camper warned: "Bears frequent this campground so be bear aware and practice proper food storage."
Insect preparation: Ticks and chiggers are common in the Pine Barrens. A camper 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."
Toilet facilities: Most campgrounds have basic facilities. One camper described: "Bathrooms are very basic. Fresh water pump is located at entrance to campground. Each campsite is a cleared area with a fire pit."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for privacy: For tent camping with children near Williamstown, select sites strategically. A visitor to Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest shared: "A beautiful escape. Great secluded sites available. There are also spots near the camp store and river that are more 'centrally' located if that's what you're after."
Weekday camping: Weekends can be busy and noisy. One camper at Bodine Field advised: "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."
Water activities: Swimming options are available nearby. A camper mentioned: "It's also a 5 minute drive from Atsion lake, a great place for kayaking and swimming."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most campgrounds in the Pine Barrens have tight access roads unsuitable for larger RVs. According to a camper at Lower Forge Camp: "We were wholly unprepared to joke about it 8 miles to a campground, despite that and the thunderstorm, had an amazing time. The only issue was that though we were told it was hike-in only, there were clearly many people who drove in."
Tent-focused campgrounds: Most campers bring tents rather than RVs. One visitor noted: "Thankfully no RVs here. Very much enjoyed the stay."
Limited hookups: No water or electric hookups are available at most sites. Each campsite typically includes only a fire ring without picnic tables or other amenities. One camper described the setup: "Each campsite is a cleared area with a fire pit."
