96% (26)
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Wharton State Forest
Great Times Camp Ground
Great Times Camp Ground
99%
(65)
11mi from Wharton State Forest · 2 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$75
/ night
Spacious Skies Country Oaks Campground
Spacious Skies Country Oaks Campground
95%
(58)
22mi from Wharton State Forest · 136 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$34
/ night
Creekside at Crystal Lake
Creekside at Crystal Lake
95%
(33)
28mi from Wharton State Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Countryside Horse Farm
Countryside Horse Farm
99%
(179)
41mi from Wharton State Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our horse farm is located in one of the most rural areas of Southern New Jersey. This land was once occupied by The Lanape Tribe. The adjacent creek was named after Chief Alloway. Artifacts of Native Americans have been found alongside this brackish water creek. This farm was for many years a dairy farm which was passed on for 3 generations until the late 80's.
Our main horse breeds are 5 Arabians followed by 2 Thoroughbreds and 2 miniature ponies. In addition to horses you will see free range rabbits, chickens and beautiful cows.
There are many antique shops in this area which tell the rich History of Southern NJ. Cowen mall and Royal Port are my two favorites.
Another must see experience (at least once) in the area is The Cowtown Rodeo, one of the first and oldest in the country, only 14 minutes drive.
Cool and brand new Brewery opening up soon right across the rd from Cowtown and right next to The best Cowboy outfitter.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/TbK3TfJUDk9Tuziv9
Hope you enjoy visiting our forgotten part of NJ and make great memories!
Learn more about this land:
Relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Feast your eyes on the luscious green pastures with grazing horses and cows while enjoying the sound of wild life all around you. You might even be lucky and spot a Bald Eagle here on our property. If you get caught on a rainy weekend we offer Plenty of indoor activities inside our large indoor arena. You can sit on the lounge and read, play board games, pool, darts, archery, watch a movie on the big 20" screen etc... PS movie viewing subject to fees and booking 1-2 days in advance.
Thank you for your interest and considerations and hope to be hosting your next camping adventure. :)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$50
/ night
Wading Pines Camping Resort
Wading Pines Camping Resort
100%
(3)
6.7mi from Wharton State Forest · 195 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$88
/ night
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: South Jersey
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: South Jersey
18mi from Wharton State Forest · 120 sites · RVs, Lodging
Discover the unparalleled charm of Jellystone Park™ South Jersey, a premier Camp-Resort that stands out as the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Southern New Jersey. This award-winning campground is perfect for those who cherish the beauty of nature and seek adventure in a family-friendly environment.
Set against the backdrop of lush greenery, Jellystone Park™ offers a variety of exciting activities to keep campers entertained. Dive into the refreshing swimming lake or take a splash in the inviting pools. For thrill-seekers, the colorful jumping pillow (coming soon) promises hours of fun, while gem mining provides a unique opportunity to uncover hidden treasures.
After a day filled with adventure, unwind at one of the premium campsites or cozy cabins, where you can gather around a crackling fire and share stories under the stars. With its breathtaking scenery and diverse amenities, Jellystone Park™ South Jersey ensures a memorable camping experience for everyone. Don’t miss out—book your spot today and create lasting memories in this outdoor paradise!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$62
/ night
Slip Away Ocean Gate Home
Slip Away Ocean Gate Home
32mi from Wharton State Forest · 2 sites
Kick back and relax in this calm, stylish space. King size bed, bathroom, laundry, and living room. Keurig, mini fridge, and microwave available as well. Dining establishments within steps / walking distance.
The space
This unit offers its own private entrance and parking spot. On street parking is available as well, first come, first serve. You enter through a covered deck. There is also a small fenced in side yard. You are welcomed into a living room with TV. A private bedroom very close to the bathroom with a standup shower stall. Washer and dyer are available in the walk in closet.
Guest access
Guest will have access to the whole space. The main entrance door has a keypad for entry. There is a locked door separating the other unit.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$205
/ night
Rooted Acres Farm & Nature Retreat
Rooted Acres Farm & Nature Retreat
34mi from Wharton State Forest · 3 sites
Fall asleep to the sounds of nature on a U-pick hobby farm 15 min from the Jersey shore. Our farm backs to Belleplain State Forest where you can bike/hike/swim. There are restaurants/wineries/breweries and multiple antique shops nearby.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$198
/ night
Sun Retreats Avalon
Sun Retreats Avalon
41mi from Wharton State Forest · 43 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Sun Retreats Avalon stands out as a unique destination at the Jersey Shore, seamlessly blending the beauty of nature with modern camping conveniences. Nestled in a picturesque setting, this campground offers an array of amenities that cater to both relaxation and adventure.
Dive into our expansive 2,000 square-foot pool, perfect for cooling off on warm summer days. For those who enjoy fishing, our serene fishing lake invites you to reel in your very own catch of the day. Engage in friendly competition with neighbors on our bocce ball and shuffleboard courts, or explore the tranquil waters of the lake with our kayak rentals.
Beyond the campground, a wealth of attractions awaits. Visit the Cape May County Park & Zoo for a family-friendly outing, or hike through the breathtaking National Wildlife Refuge to immerse yourself in the area's natural beauty. For a taste of nostalgia, head to Morey's Piers, where you can enjoy classic boardwalk amusement rides. Additionally, discover the finest wines on the East Coast at nearby vineyards, making your stay at Sun Retreats Avalon an unforgettable experience filled with adventure and relaxation.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$69
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Maryum
2 weeks ago
With pets
Loredana is a warm and welcoming host. The cabin and her land is very well maintained, and she checked on me often enough to ensure that I was comfortable and entertained. As a solo traveler, I also felt safe staying with her. 10 out of 10 was my experience and I would like to stay again.
See more
Z
Zachary
December 2025
With pets
Amazingly pretty and private and makes it easy to ground and get to your roots. A step away.
See more
D
Dawn
November 2025
With pets
What a fabulous time it was on this farm. I went in December so it was a bit cold. The owner was was very kind. She had already put a space heater in there and warms it up for me. If you don't like the cold then do not go in the cooler months but you ABSOLUTELY should go in the 3 other seasons. I loved meeting the horses and waking up to the sounds of a rooster. On the way out to this farm I saw a few other farms. I saw the biggest bald eagle I've ever seen in my life as well as peacocks. All this in NJ. This was an amazing experience.
See more
R
Ryan
November 2025
With pets
Stayed here numerous times in between areas for work and its just what I need. Loredana is great and I guarantee I will be back as needed. Quiet area, easy booking, laid back.
See moreS
Sweety
November 2025
With kids
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.
See more
R
Ryan
November 2025
With pets
Great, easily accessible place. Dog friendly a huge plus with fenced area to roam. Host is very friendly and checked in during our stay how we were doing. Highly recommended if you are in the area! Cabin even in fall/winter has space heater and holds heat well.
See moreA
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.
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C
Carly
October 2025
Group trip
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!
See moreT
Tetiana
October 2025
With pets
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!
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D
Dave
October 2025
Group trip
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.
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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.
See moreC
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.
See moreT
Timur
September 2025
With kids
Excellent experience. Amazing place. Thanks you so much.
See more
J
Jim
September 2025
3 nights at Spacious Skies Country Oaks Campground
Great spot easy check in easy check out clean very accommodating
See more
Bill
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Great Times Camp Ground
Had a blast with a bunch of friends. Decent size piece of land with a lake/pond. We used 2 cabins. Plenty of picnic tables to use. Bathrooms are only a short walk from the cabins.
Will was very accommodating.
I'm sure we will be back.
See more
Franchi
September 2025
Group trip
I recently spent a weekend at Great Times Camp Ground through Hipcamp, and I can honestly say it exceeded every expectation. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed, relaxed, and totally immersed in nature—yet with every comfort I needed.
What stood out:
• Peaceful & Scenic Setting
The campsites are nestled in beautiful woods, with plenty of privacy. Waking up to birdsong and filtered sunlight through the trees immediately recharged me.
• Well-Kept Grounds & Amenities
The entire site is clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully laid out. Paths are easy to find, sites are level and spacious, and facilities (restrooms, water points, etc.) are all in good shape. It strikes a great balance: rustic enough to feel like real camping, but convenient enough to feel comfortable.
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A
Abbie
September 2025
With pets
I had an amazing time “Glamping” here! The host is so sweet and friendly. The cabin was clean and perfectly cozy and the facility was super well taken care of. You can’t beat waking up to the sound of horses neighing and the country side right out of your window! I will absolutely be back here to stay again!
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James
September 2025
With pets
Experience was excellent. Cabin was exactly as described. For an extra fee, they were able to provide a small generator as well. Bathroom was a little far, but clean and well-maintained. Overall would definitely recommend.
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G
Glen
September 2025
With pets
Great campground and friendly tenants. We weren’t there for the amenities such as an arcade and swimming pool. The owner is very friendly and runs a nice place to stay for a few days. We will definitely recommend and return ourselves. My only wish is that the cabins were a little bigger. Since this was the first time my wife went camping we left late the second night rather than stay til morning. Our dog, not a people/animal dog, was a bit of a pain too.
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K
Kelly
September 2025
With pets
Entire campground was very clean with lots of activities, a fishing pond and a river to float down. The cabin had ample room and my pups were welcome. We even pitched a tent right outside for my son to camp out. The store was huge and had everything you could possibly need or want so you don’t need to leave the site.
See more 96%
26 ratings · 19 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
35 ft travel trailer ·
Bodine Field Camping Area
Exactly as described. Easy communication with hosts.
Would definitely stay again. 😃
Thanks!!
J
Jaime K.
8 months on Hipcamp
The water pump at this tenting site has been permanently removed due to concerns over impure water. There are no picnic tables anywhere. Toilets have no paper -- bring your own.
It's a four mile hike from Batso to this tenting site, but it's perfectly flat the entire walk. An average walker can do this in about two hours.
A
Arthur G.
9 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2023
The Batona Campground in Wharton State Forest is a small campground best suited for tent campers. It can get busy (and rowdy) on weekends. The road into the campground is sand.
A water pump provides fresh water but is not available in the winter. There's at least two pit toilets in the campground - don't expect luxury. Bears frequent this campground so be bear aware and practice proper food storage.
Best part about the campground is that it's right on the 50 mile Batona Trail so it's a great stop-over assuming you've made reservations. No first-come first-serve. Site 6 is one of the more private sites as it's tucked into the back corner.
Sara + Mike (.
9 reviews
May 2023
We had a great time camping here in summer 2022, and plan to again in summer 2023. Some of the camp sites are close enough to the RV campground across the road called Wading Pines and you'll hear music into the night if on a weekend -- just something to be aware of. They no longer require you to check in at an office, so you can book online and show up at whatever time. Don't stay here if you want nice bathroom facilities. But the location is great and it's beautiful, and good size.
M
Marina Noelle B.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2022
We stayed in Hawkins Bridge Campground last week and we really liked it! We actually originally booked in Lower Forge (not realizing it was a 7 mile hike to camp) so they switched us here, but we really liked it.
If all sites were booked, it would have been pretty crowded/close proximity, however we were the only ones in the area that night so it was very quiet.
The outhouse/bathroom was close and clean.
There was a fire pit included with a grill over the one side for easy cooking.
The main thing I do want to mention is: you have to drive on dirt roads to get to the camp and there is no cell service.
We were in a truck so we had no issues but if it had rained or if we had a smaller car, we may have had an issue making it to the camp.
R
Rachel L.
3 years on Hipcamp
May 2022
AVOID this campground. I am someone who camps multiple times a year and am low maintenance when it comes to camping - I prefer primitive camping to anything else.
I saw some reviews before coming saying ticks were bad but thought hey it can't be that bad... it's that bad.
I stayed with a group of 12 spread out over four sites (005-008) and we were only able to stay one night because within the span of 24 hours we counted over 100 Lone Star ticks that had either attached to us or our dogs, or were crawling on us or the dogs. This does not include the 60 ticks we pulled off of our dogs when we got home and could really look them over.
I have never experienced anything like this in my life.... we were getting these ticks just setting up and
M
Marina L.
3 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2021
It is not on the Mullica, it is on the Batsto river. Google Earth calls both rivers the Mullica. No drinking water on site. It is currently not possible to canoe from upstream so hiking in is the only real option.
M Hercule F.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2019
Bodine Field is my go-to camping location. The plots are typically much larger than what you are probably used to. There is a local canoe launch as well as decent access to potable water. If you are camping alone, go early in the season. It is a very attractive site for larger groups so it can get noisy in the summer months. I have met dozens of people on multiple trips and never had any issues from my neighboring campers.
A
Anthony C.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· March 2019
Based on my site scouting hike in 2018, LFC is about as primitive as the State of New Jersey allows.
The sites are mostly open space, suitable for tents with some trees for hammocks and tarps.
Sugar sand is along a portion of the 1/4 mile hike, which may increase the level of difficulty for some.
Seasoned dead wood for campfires will take time to locate during the frequent use season.
Joe M.
6 years on Hipcamp
March 2019
Target date is March 16 for 1 overnight to do gear testing at site #1. I’ll post the details about the site sometime over the weekend. 7 of the 9 sites were already reserved as of early Friday morning, prior to my reservation.
Joe M.
6 years on Hipcamp
January 2018
I love Bodine Field . Great for tent camping pushed back about over a mile down a dirt road in the woods. Right on the wading river. We always end our kayak trip right at the campground. It does list on here that it has picnic tables ,but no site has them here. They have pit toilets and no toilet paper in most of them, so defiantly bring TP.
Kara A.
8 years on Hipcamp
May 2017
Spent the night here before launching for a canoe trip down the wading river. Nice site area for groups. Water available that tasted good. Easy access to the river.
Thomas M.
10 years on Hipcamp
November 2016
Topher, LFC is located on the Batsto River, not the Mullica. Google Maps has mislabeled the Batsto as the Mullica. At LFC, the Mullica is actually a little less than a mile west of the Batsto.
No potable water as Topher stated. There are also no picnic table(s). There is a latrine, but be careful in the warmer weather as wasps like to build hives inside.
Ed D.
9 years on Hipcamp
February 2016
Buttonwood Hill is the first campground when hiking the Batona Trail South to North (Bass River to Ong's Hat). It's a long walk, 16 1/2 miles to the turnout and then another mile to the campsite. Nicely wooded.
There are only 5 sites at the campsite. It is right by County Road 542 so you'll hear some traffic all night. You'll have to watch your kids and pets carefully. There are picnic tables, fire rings, and one pit toilet.
During the summer months, there is a potable water (and flush toilets!) at the restrooms at Crowleys Landing restroom across the road & down the access road about 1/4 mile. There is no water at the campsite itself. You could walk to the boat landing to get water from the river to filter if necessary.
Topher B.
10 years on Hipcamp
September 2015
My section time at Batona Camp. First time was hiking the trail this spring. This time just me and Spirit. One correction, no picnic tables at this camp site. If you are lucky, there is a log near your fire ring. Great water supply, I've posted a picture of the pump. I have heard from friends that it can be a rowdy on the weekends in the summer. That was certainly the case on my first outing there.
Also for other pet owners. You need to register your pet at the one of the park offices, either in Atsion or Batsto. Both are drive from the campsite, so take that into account when you plan your trip. At this point ReserveAmerica does not take the payment for pets online; it has to be in person.
With respect to LeeAnn K, I like Site 1.
Topher B.
10 years on Hipcamp
September 2015
Lower Forge is my favorite campsite on the Batona Trail, but there are some things that are incorrect. First, there is NO potable water at the site. The campsite is on the Mullica River but you will need to filter or boil the river water. Second, you cannot drive into the site. It is illegal to do so. There is a dirt road that will get you to within a quarter mile or so, but you have to hike in or boat in from the river.
Topher B.
10 years on Hipcamp
August 2015
Just a little over an hour from Philly this is a great weekend spot. Clean, primitive with no showers or anything like that but who needs 'em? Sites have a good amount of distance so you're not cramped. Accessible to a few trails. Site 9 is the best site :)
Lee Ann K.
10 years on Hipcamp
August 2015
Our walkin was big & close to the water. Pond is beautiful w/ pickerel weed, water lilies, & mirror like water. Good for canoeing. Edible berries were all around.There were no picnic tables at the walkins but we were fine. Beware of chiggers. Great spot!
L
Lori P.
10 years on Hipcamp
June 2015
This is a gorgeous spot and feels very secluded. Be cautious with your car as some of the roads are deep sand.
J
Joanna H.
10 years on Hipcamp