Camping in the New Jersey Pine Barrens near Winslow offers a distinctive ecosystem with sandy, acidic soils supporting unique plant communities and seasonal wetlands. The area sits at a modest elevation of around 100 feet above sea level, creating a flat terrain that's ideal for novice hikers and families seeking accessible nature experiences. Winter nights can drop below freezing between November and March, making spring through fall the prime camping seasons.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing on Wading River: Launch directly from your campsite at Wharton State Forest's Bodine campground for easy water access. "Our site was right on Wading River and we launched our kayaks right at the site! Our tent has a full view of the sky and at night it was like a planetarium as we admired the sky from our cots," reports Dina S., who enjoyed the rustic experience.
Explore historic sites: Visit Batsto Village, located 15 minutes from Wharton State Forest's Atsion Recreation Area. "Batsto is a 15 minute drive. Hikes start either there or you can access from Atsion as well. There are little trails around the campsite too," notes Steve, who found the location convenient for exploring multiple historic sites.
Off-road adventures: The Pine Barrens feature extensive sand roads accessible to properly equipped vehicles. "Great location for hitting the 4x4 trails," says Sean W. about Brendan Byrne State Forest, which offers immediate access to the region's network of sandy forest roads.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds offer generous spacing between sites. "Very spacious campsite, although the closest water spigot wasn't working. Not a big problem as there are plenty of others," mentions Megan S. about Brendan Byrne State Forest, highlighting the ample room at each site.
Clean facilities: Most state forest campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms. "Bathrooms were clean but most of the faucets on the sinks were broken. The water has a very high iron content," notes Frank J. about Parvin State Park Campground, giving visitors realistic expectations about water quality.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking alternatives to tent camping near Winslow, New Jersey, several parks offer yurt accommodations. "We stayed in a yurt. It was a great experience that we would definitely do again. There is a small lake that was great to kayak on," shares Lisa S. about her stay at Belleplain State Forest, one of the few locations offering yurt camping in Winslow area.
What you should know
Water quality varies: Iron content in groundwater can affect taste and appearance. "The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing," warns Frank J. about Parvin State Park, suggesting campers might want to bring drinking water.
Bug preparation essential: Ticks and mosquitoes are abundant, especially in warmer months. "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!" advises Megan S. about her June stay at Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Limited cell coverage: Most Pine Barrens campgrounds have minimal connectivity. "Virtually NO cell service with AT&T, TMobile or Verizon. AT&T was the better of the 3," reports Anne H. about her stay at Belleplain State Forest, helping visitors plan accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Several campgrounds feature swimming lakes with designated beach areas. "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)," shares Alexa L. about Wharton State Forest.
Playground access: Consider site location relative to play areas. "Site is great for people with families as there was a playground within 50 feet so it is a bit louder and busier," mentions Rosie R. about Old Cedar Campground, noting the convenience and potential noise trade-off.
Structured activities: Some private campgrounds offer organized events. "The campground has def changed in the last 10 yrs. Cabin rentals are everywhere and have replaced a lot of transient camper sites," observes Stacy D. about Adventure Bound Campground (formerly Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park - Elmer), highlighting the evolution toward more family amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness challenges: Many natural sites require significant leveling. "Site 116 in CCC section (only section with electric and water). Good privacy," notes Frank J. about Belleplain State Forest, identifying the specific loop with hookups.
Dump station limitations: State park facilities may be basic. "The worst was the dump station. It is just a little hole on the side of the road and the ONLY dump station for the 3 campgrounds! It was very unlevel and not easy to fully dump our tanks," warns Anne H. about her experience at Wading Pines Camping Resort, suggesting RVers plan extra time for this process.
Shared hookups: Water connections may require extra equipment. "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 his stay at Old Cedar Campground, providing a specific, practical tip.
