Explore
/
United States
/
New Jersey
/
Bass River State Forest

The best camping in Bass River State Forest, NJ

63% (4)

Discover the natural allure of Bass River State Forest.

Popular ways to camp

Camper favorites near Bass River State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Snag sold-out campsites.

Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.

See the best spots in one place.

Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.

Book with confidence.

Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Chris

2 days ago

22 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at That Dome Home RV Site

Great spot. Very responsive host and easy check in.

Sweety

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Creekside at Crystal Lake

We had weekend trips at Bern’s place and it was wonderful. Cabin is really cozy and had everything needed. Everything was properly marked for convenience. My kid had a wonderful time hiking and watching horses. Beautiful fire pit and peaceful nature.Bren was super responsive and helped whenever we needed anything. Wonderful place and helpful people.

We walked around the pond and took in our campsite from across the way.

APR

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pine Creek

I absolutely love this place. I always get site 1 in front of the lake. Spacious well kept. Very responsive host, super clean port-a-jon will be back time and time again!

Keiko

October 2025

21 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Creekside at Crystal Lake

We had a great time for a quick overnight. I definitely want to return with my grandson for a weekend.

Ann

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Creekside at Crystal Lake

We had a fantastic weekend at this site. Because the weather was cooler, we were looking for cabin camping, and the cabin was thoroughly prepped with everything we might need and was very clean. The outhouse was also spotless. Our favorite part was the outdoor area beside the cabin, with the picnic table and campfire. It felt like we were in the middle of the woods, even though we weren’t far from civilization. There is some nearby road noise, which is hard to avoid given the location, but in the morning we heard birds and the crackling fire helped drown out the car sounds. This spot is perfect for anyone seeking cabin camping with a private, secluded feel for a getaway.

Carly

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Great Times Camp Ground

We had such a GREAT TIME at Great Times Camp! Bathrooms and parking are a short walk away from the cabins. The camp is private and quiet with plenty of room for our large group. Will was helpful and prompt with answering any questions. We will definitely be back!

Jason

October 2025

27 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Creekside at Crystal Lake

We stayed at Bren's place with our 3 dogs in a 27' travel trailer. Easy in and out very convenient for traveling. Clean and friendly.

Tetiana

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Creekside at Crystal Lake

I booked the cabin and one tent site to accommodate our group of 2 adults, three kids, and one dog. We setup the tent near the cabin and had a fantastic time! The cabin is cozy and was very comfortable for mom with two boys. The dispersed area looks great, although we did not use it. The host was very accommodating and responded to my barrage of questions. We felt very comfortable and safe. What a great place for a family getaway!

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pine Creek

I stayed at campsite #1 a few years ago and decided to come back this past weekend with some friends who were brand new to camping. The site sits right by the dock near the pond — it’s currently being worked on, so there wasn’t much water this time. But that didn’t stop us from having a good time. The space was perfect for our big group of 13! It’s quiet, roomy, and far enough from the other sites that you get plenty of privacy. Getting in touch with Timothy, the owner, was super easy. He responded quickly to messages and made sure we had everything we needed for our stay, which made the whole experience even better. Since it’s pet-friendly, I even brought my kitten along, and he had a blast exploring the outdoors. Overall, it was an awesome weekend, and I’d totally recommend campsite #1 to anyone looking for a fun, relaxing getaway with friends or family.

Sumona

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Creekside at Crystal Lake

We loved camping in this beautiful area. Plenty of space to put up our tent and have some peace and quiet. We are local but it is a great way to end a busy, stressful week.

JAEYONG

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Creekside at Crystal Lake

cheap and nice location between phili and new york.

Dave

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Great Times Camp Ground

7th trip to Great Times in 6 years and every year is better than the last. Our host Will is always just a message away and is very accommodating.

Cecelia

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Creekside at Crystal Lake

This cozy little cabin in the woods is a fantastic little find. The cabin is comfortable, cute, clean, and just overall a wonderful place to stay. I especially like the fire pit and sitting out and hearing all the crickets and sounds of nature. The double bed is quite comfortable and the host greeted us and made sure we had everything that we needed. Overall a high recommendation.

Yvonne

October 2025

4 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Spacious Skies Country Oaks Campground

This campground spends a lot of effort looking for activities for children and adults. There are a lot of things to do for children!! I received text every day about what they had planned for the day.

Vivian

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Spacious Skies Country Oaks Campground

Such a wonderful experience filled with stuff to do in a safe and private area. Perfect for both meeting new people and having private time.

James

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Pine Creek

This is the second time I’ve stayed at Tim’s property. Each time was very enjoyable, peaceful and you had plenty of space to run around. There is a lake there that you can’t go fishing, but unfortunately, this time I was in the dry season. This place is very well kept And enjoyable.

Carrie

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Creekside at Crystal Lake

This little cabin had everything we needed, and we were very comfortable. Linens provided, great battery powered lamps and everything was clearly marked. We only stayed for one night and did not take advantage of the fire pit, but we enjoyed relaxing on the porch with coffee in the morning. Though the communal pit toilet is shared with others who may be camping on the land, the cabin is separate from campsites and feels very private. We’d certainly love to return for a longer stay.

Calvin

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Creekside at Crystal Lake

Went above and beyond in making us comfortable! Set up an extra fire ring for our group in addition to the pit we already had. Went as a weekend trip from NYC and got to sneak in some great nearby visits to a honey apiary farm, pick your own vegetables farm, and the BAPS temple (3rd largest in the world!)

Calvin

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Creekside at Crystal Lake

Gina

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Howell Fireside Chills

Abraham, the host, “made” this site! He was accommodating, helpful and so pleasant! The site wasn’t what I was expecting (I thought it would be in a more rural setting because dogs can be off leash) however I stayed because Abraham was so darn nice. My dog and I had a very restful, relaxing stay.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Bass River State Forest

100%

(1)

North Shore Campground

1.6mi from Bass River State Forest · 93 sites · Tents, RVs · in Bass River State Forest

Bass River Cabins

1.8mi from Bass River State Forest · 6 sites · in Bass River State Forest

Bass River Group Area

1.8mi from Bass River State Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Bass River State Forest

My husband, pitbull pup and I stumbled upon Bass River State Forest last year and have already made it an annual must! The sites are both beautiful and quiet and you're only steps to hiking and the water.

South Shore Campground

2.1mi from Bass River State Forest · 92 sites · Tents, RVs · in Bass River State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

Creekside at Crystal Lake

95%

(31)

36mi from Bass River State Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bordentown, NJ

We have 12 acres packed with trails along side of a creek that backs up and leads to crystal lake park. This is primitive camping but if you like hiking and exploring this is a good place for you! You can park directly at the camp sites.

Horse Farm Camping

96%

(207)

34mi from Bass River State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bordentown, NJ

Learn more about this land:A beautiful horse farm centered between Philadelphia and New York City. 45 minutes from the beach, 45 minutes from the mountains. Local breweries, wineries and distilleries within minutes. World famous Columbus Farmers Market 5 minutes down the road. Historic Burlington City and the Delaware River just 5 minutes in the opposite direction. We are very social people if you are looking for a new way to meet fun people. Action sports is what we 're doing here a lot of the time (horseback riding, skateboarding, off road riding), so we can point you in the best direction to do the most fun things in the area.

That Dome Home RV Site

100%

(31)

9.5mi from Bass River State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Manahawkin, NJ

Want to be close to Long Beach Island (LBI) without the crowds? You've found the place! Our lot is 1.22 acres only several miles away from LBI, New Jersey. The owner-occupied residence is tucked away from the road with only one neighbor in sight. We live in a 1987 geodesic dome home on the property. Additionally, our self-converted 2002 International Blue Bird school bus is parked here. There is plenty of room for you to park in the circle driveway or to the left of the dome. Enjoy our large, fenced backyard with plenty of room for activities. We have yard games available (Yard Yahtzee, Spikeball, Molkky, lawn darts, and more) and you're welcome to bring them to the beach. Crab traps, fishing poles, and a cooler are available too. Feel free to start a campfire in the designated area or relax in the two hammocks. We promise you'll never be bored here! LBI beaches, the Manahawkin Lake, restaurants, bars, shopping, and more are all minutes away. Proximity via car: -5 minutes to LBI -3 minutes to Manahawkin Lake -3 minutes to The Old Causeway and Mud City (restaurants) -4 minutes to ManaFirkin Brewing Co. -40 minutes to Atlantic City -70 minutes to Philadelphia

Teca Farms

22mi from Bass River State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pemberton, NJ

Teca Farms is a private 400-acre nature retreat nestled in the scenic NJ, Pinebarrons. Our land boasts over five miles of private hiking trails, abundant wild blueberries in season, and thriving natural wildlife, including diverse bird species. With several water bodies, including a breathtaking 20-acre lake, Teca Farms is the perfect destination for a peaceful getaway. Whether you're looking for a weekend of camping, exploring the outdoors, or simply unwinding in nature, we offer a variety of activities. Guests can enjoy our BBQ area, firepit, picnic benches, and other amenities designed to enhance their outdoor experience.

Spacious Skies Country Oaks Campground

95%

(58)

28mi from Bass River State Forest · 136 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Dorothy, NJ

Spacious Skies Country Oaks rests within the countryside of the Pine Barrens region of southern New Jersey, just an hour from Philadelphia and Wilmington, DE, and only 30 miles from the Atlantic City boardwalk. If you are looking for southern New Jersey’s best campsites you have found them! Find peace at our campground in New Jersey which is due south of the Wharton State Forest and surrounded by other wildlife management areas that dot the protected ecoregion. We offer back-in and pull-through RV sites that can accommodate all sized RVs and trailers! Each RV site includes a picnic table, fire ring, 30 or 50-amp electrical service, and sewer. We have deluxe patio sites and some rustic cabins too! Friendly people are waiting by the phone to tell you about our amazing activities, and an atmosphere that all campers will take to heart. Delightfully, Country Oaks campground happens to be surrounded by a number of designated wildlife management areas (WMAs)–Tuckahoe, Maple Lake, and Menantico Ponds to name a few! These areas are popular for hiking/walking, fishing, kayaking, and birding opportunities abound! Our nation’s bird, the bald eagle, is no stranger to this region, along with lots of other species for your bird-watching journal. The Warren E. Fox Nature Center is the headquarters for environmental education within the Atlantic County park system, with fun displays and trials for the whole family. Inland nature aside, Atlantic City and Ocean City beaches and boardwalks are 30-40 minutes away!

Open Field for Dry Camping

94%

(70)

34mi from Bass River State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Ocean View, NJ

Learn more about this land: The field is perfect for tent camping, camper vans, campers, or even sleeping under the stars. This field is available for dry camping, meaning there is no water or sewage hookup and everything is pack in, pack out. A fire pit is also available for use. Short distance from back bays, ocean, trails, beaches and an incredible amount of tourist attractions the Cape May County area has to offer!

Howell Fireside Chills

100%

(3)

33mi from Bass River State Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Howell, NJ

Howell Fireside Chills offers guest to relax and unwind at the fire-pit. With plenty of space to walk around in the woods that has a trimmed path, you can feel one with nature and the wildlife that graze and live in the 40+ acre fields behind my 10 acre. On clear nights you got a beautiful sight of the skies above with the stunning stars that shine and if your lucky to see a shooting star in the August and December months.

Great Times Camp Ground

99%

(65)

24mi from Bass River State Forest · 2 sites · Lodging · Waterford Works, NJ

Great Times Camp ground has been the home of "Great Times Day Camp" for 35+ years. In the heart of the pinelands, GTDC provides a beautiful ground for campers to enjoy the outdoors and experience new things like boating, hiking, and more. Update - We have added a parking location close to the main site area! It is now extremely easy to access the site location! AC Available! Great Times Camp Ground consists 52 acres of the amazing outdoors including a large natural lake, acres of woods to explore, and lots of fun activities such as volleyball, basketball, and even a beach to enjoy. Great Times operates as a children's day camp during the summer months, but now can be enjoyed all year round. Activities Available: - Basketball Courts - Tennis Courts - Fishing - Beach - Sport Fields for Activities If you would like the bunkhouse / cabin - you must add it as an extra, otherwise it will be assumed that you are tent camping. Pools are off limits to Hipcamp families.

Pine Creek

97%

(741)

25mi from Bass River State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Medford, NJ

Escape to Old Cranberry Farm in the heart of West Jersey! Pitch your tent in our peaceful hay field or find a cozy spot in the woods. Enjoy fishing from our dock and take in the dark skies, perfect for stargazing.

Old Pine Barrens Blueberry farm

100%

(3)

15mi from Bass River State Forest · 1 site · RV · Presidential Lakes Estates, NJ

My property is an old blueberry farm. There is a cleared area that I use for dog training at the front of the property and some trails throughout the property; but mostly it’s a quiet place to sleep in a small/medium sized self-contained RV without slide-outs to the side (your RV or van must contain a toilet which must be emptied off-site. Further note: I DO NOT allow tents). Also, if your RV has low clearance, there is a slope from the road to the driveway, thus the bottom of your RV may scrape the ground (neither of my vans have a problem with this: I have a Ford E350 and a Ram Promaster). If on the site in July, you can pick a pint or two of blueberries (IF they are available) for your own use. The berries are chemical free. My neighbor to the right also has a pick-your-own farm with tended blueberry fields (you are not allowed to pick my neighbor’s crop unless he is there so you can pay him) My site is in the NJ Pine Barrens which is renowned for its unspoiled nature, abundant, and diverse wildlife. It is also within the Pinelands National Reserve and within the area designated by the United Nations as an International Biosphere Reserve. Nearby is the Batona Trail, the Franklin Parker preserve, canoeing on Chatsworth Lake or the Wading River, bicycling through the Pine Barrens and and the cranberry bogs on the bicycle lanes on Routes 532 and 563, the quaint village of Chatsworth also known as the Capital of the Pines, Hot Diggidy Dog a food stand within the village of Chatsworth, and Brendan Byrne State Forest which includes the historic cranberry farming village of Whitesbog where the cultivated blueberry was developed by Elizabeth White and Dr. Frederick Coville. The Whitesbog Preservation Trust which manages the village has an extensive year round calendar of events and a month-long blueberry festival during weekends in July.

Wading Pines Camping Resort

100%

(3)

7.3mi from Bass River State Forest · 195 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Chatsworth, NJ

Located right on the Wading River, you just can’t get any further into the New Jersey Pinelands unless you choose to rent a canoe or kayak (right at the campground, of course!) and paddle downstream to one of the many secluded picnic spots along the riverbanks. If you prefer to stay “closer to home”, you can picnic at our private island in the river, take a dip in our spacious saltwater pool, fish in our privately stocked pond, or enjoy every sporting activity from basketball to sand volleyball to horseshoes! You can board our “Jersey Devil” train ride for a scenic spin through the campground. If you decide to wander beyond our gates, you will find that you are just a short drive away from every major tourist attraction in Southern New Jersey … including world-famous beaches, the Atlantic City casinos and boardwalk, major theme parks, and terrific deep sea fishing. Our office hours are as follows: Sunday through Thursday - 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Friday and Saturday - 8:00 am - 8:00 pm If arriving outside of these times, please find your Late Arrival Package in the clear box on the front of the store. If you need any further assistance, the after hours phone number is posted on the front door of the store. FACILITIES • 300 sites for all types of RVs • 16 rental cabins • Water & Electric or Full hookup sites • Many 50-amp electric services • Riverfront & Pull-thru sites • Picnic table & fire ring at each site • Laundromat • Rec hall / Game room / Snack bar • Well-stocked general store • Canoe & Kayak rentals • Firewood / Ice • Dumping stations / Portable dumping service • Pets allowed (on leash) – New dog park AMENITIES • Salt water swimming pool • Kayaking and Canoeing on the river (The Wading River is owned and administered by the State of New Jersey, Department of Environmental Services, State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites, and State Park Service). • Fishing in our private, stocked pond • Playground • Basketball • Volleyball • Horseshoes • Shuffleboard • Weekend train rides throughout the park • Live entertainment on weekends

Mayfaircana Coleman Rv

100%

(2)

42mi from Bass River State Forest · 1 site · Lodging · Philadelphia, PA

Welcome to Mayfaircana Retreat — a peaceful, private RV stay in a clean, quiet neighborhood in Northeast Philadelphia. This unique setup is perfect for Individuals who want some time off the city within the city, travel nurses, remote workers, solo travelers, or couples looking for comfort, safety, and a calm vibe just outside the city. Each RV is a fully equipped one-bedroom apartment on wheels. Inside you’ll find a queen bed, a couch, and a dinette that converts into sleeping areas, a private bathroom with a shower, a kitchenette with fridge, microwave, stove, and sink, plus central AC/heat, fast WiFi, and a smart TV. All essentials are provided for a worry-free stay. Outside, the backyard offers a relaxing space with a fire pit, bar area, outdoor games, seating, a hammock, and a swing — perfect for winding down, making s’mores, or taking photos. The space is clean, welcoming, and tucked behind a private residence for total peace of mind. Designated parking is included. We're located just 2 minutes from Penny Pack Park (hiking trails, picnic areas, and nature), and 20 minutes from downtown Philly. Several hospitals and major employers are nearby, along with restaurants, grocery stores, and coffee shops. One favorite? A Dominican-Japanese fusion spot called BARU is right around the corner. This retreat is ideal for respectful guests who enjoy a clean, quiet environment with charm and privacy. The owner lives on-site but gives you full space and privacy during your stay. 📍 Mayfair, Philadelphia 📶 WiFi | 🔥 Firepit | 🅿️ Parking | 💼 Remote-Work Friendly

The best camping in Bass River State Forest, NJ guide

Overview

About

You bet your bass its time to plan another trip into the forest. How about a pygmy forest made of miniature trees? Bass River State Forest is home to one of the largest pygmy forests of its type in the world. The West Pine Plains Natural Area pygmy forest reaches a canopy height of no taller than four feet. Now if only miniature ponies also roamed the area!

Easy hiking trails are a great way to explore the area which also has a historic Civilian Conservation Corps camp where they created 67-acre Lake Absegami for swimming and boating as well as many trails, observation areas, bridges, cabins and other outdoorsy goodness for visitors to enjoy. Tent camping, lean-tos, shelters and cabins round out your options for spending a few nights in the outdoors. So pack the picnic, grab the family and head on down to Bass River State Forest!

When to go

The ideal time to visit Bass River State Forest is during the spring and fall, when mild temperatures create perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Summer brings warmth and a full bloom of nature, but also larger crowds. Winters are quieter but can be brisk, so pack accordingly.

Know before you go

Check weather conditions before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Be aware of park hours, typically from 8:30am to 5pm, and plan your activities within this timeframe.
Stay on designated trails to protect the forest's delicate ecosystems and your own safety.
Facilities may vary by season, so verify the availability of restrooms and picnic areas in advance.
Remember to pack out your trash, keeping the forest pristine for fellow adventurers.

63%

4 ratings · 4 reviews

Recommends

· June 2023

Bass River Cabins

Beautiful well equipped cabins with screened in porches facing the lake. In June, the entire campground was blooming with pink rhododendron. At night, from our screened in porch, we could hear whippoorwills, Carpenter frogs and at least 2 other types of frogs. The only problem is that the sounds of nature were often drowned out by traffic noise from the nearby parkway and by amplified music until after midnite on Saturday from a nearby public campground. The cabins were spacious, with full kitchen, living room with fireplace and bunkbed, and 2 small rooms each with bunkbed. The bathroom included shower with hot running water, sink and toilet. All was very clean. I would only hesitate to return due to seeing 1 or 2 live roaches in each room.

Lori L.

2 reviews

August 2015

Bass River Group Area

The whole of the forest and campgrounds are very clean, there's a great swimming area and plenty of water and hiking activities to keep you busy.

Whitney B.

9 reviews

August 2015

North Shore Campground

North Shore is perfect. You get A LOT of space to yourself or you and your group, access to the waterfront and a dry cabin for when roughing-it just doesn't sound all that great.

Whitney B.

9 reviews

May 2015

South Shore Campground

If you arrive after 4pm - the office will be closed, go straight to your campsite and register in the morning.

Whitney B.

9 reviews