Wharton State Forest encompasses much of the Pine Barrens region near Winslow with sandy soil characteristic of the area's unique ecosystem. The forest contains multiple campgrounds situated among Atlantic white cedar swamps and pitch pine forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with temperatures between 50-70°F.
What to do
Kayaking on Wading River: Access the river directly from Goshen Pond Campground in Wharton State Forest. "Our site was right on the Wading River and we launched our kayaks right at the site! Our tent is has a full view of the sky and at night it was like a planetarium as we admired the sky from our cots," notes camper Dina S.
Tubing adventures: Wading Pines Camping Resort offers organized river tubing trips. "The river is right there to go tubing or kayaking. Playground is cool. They allow golfcarts which is a plus in my book," shares Arnold M. The campground arranges transportation for tubing trips of varying lengths.
Hiking the Batona Trail: Access this 50+ mile trail directly from Batona Campground in Wharton State Forest. "Best part of this campground is trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible," explains meghan G. The trail connects several historic sites throughout the forest.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing ponds or river access. "Old Cedar Campground is nice for a quiet weekend. Nice pool, good fishing, staff is great," notes Arnold M. Most fishing areas are catch-and-release only, so check local regulations before keeping any fish.
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Jellystone Park South Jersey (formerly Hospitality Creek) offers premium waterfront sites. "Our lakefront site(#57) was superb! It was between a small, paved boat ramp and a row of arborvitae trees on the other side separating us from the neighboring site," describes Matt S.
Spacious camping areas: Goshen Pond features secluded sites away from crowds. "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," reports Amy C.
Camp store conveniences: Many campers appreciate on-site stores for forgotten items. "The little office store has everything you forgot to pack," mentions Jorah at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA. Some campgrounds even offer delivery service for firewood and other necessities.
Swimming options: Winding River Campground provides water recreation opportunities. "The campground was nice and clean and the staff was so helpful," shares Jen C., who enjoyed the swimming areas. Most campgrounds with pools are open Memorial Day through Labor Day.
What you should know
Sandy terrain challenges: Many campsites feature sandy soil typical of the Pine Barrens. "Your rig will be covered in sand and it's quite buggy. However, it has a state park feel with the trees," notes Michelle C. about Winding River. Consider bringing extra ground stakes and mats.
Insects and wildlife: Ticks and chiggers are common in the area. "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 Goshen Pond.
Primitive facilities at some sites: Batona Campground offers a more rustic experience. "Each campsite includes a fire pit with a grate (no picnic tables). There are two outhouses and one water source within the campground," explains Brittany L. Bring portable seating if tables aren't provided.
Varied water quality: Water at some campgrounds contains high iron content. At Parvin State Park, "The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing," reports Frank J. Consider bringing bottled water for drinking and cooking.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds schedule family events. "In season tons of hourly activities for the kids," mentions Denise P. about Hospitality Creek (now Jellystone Park). Activities often include crafts, games, and themed weekends during peak season.
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment. "Family friendly with tons of kid activities/themes. Easy roads for bike riding and beautiful views of the lake," notes Lauren C. about Hospitality Creek.
Swimming options: Parvin State Park offers a family-friendly beach area. "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.
Pet-friendly sites: For pet-friendly camping near Winslow, New Jersey, consider site selection carefully. Some campgrounds like Old Cedar Campground accommodate pets but have specific areas designated for them. "The boundaries between neighbors are pretty much non-existent," notes Steve about Atsion, so consider site proximity if camping with pets.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Narrow roads can make navigation challenging. "The roads and turns were tight for our 36' motorhome, but manageable," reports Matt S. about Hospitality Creek. Request pull-through sites when available.
Hookup location planning: Bring extra-long hoses and cords. "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," warns Matt S. at Old Cedar Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds close during winter months. "This does close for winter and reopens in April but call park for exact closure dates because they do change," advises Travyl Couple about Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA.
Advance reservations: Book early for premium sites. "We had a waterfront site, although you can't really see the water from the site itself. Two paths led down to the lake, about 20 feet," describes Steve about camping at Atsion.
Legend
