We live in New Jersey and apparently have been missing out on the best kept secret in our own backyard - the Pinelands! The Pinelands was the country’s first National Reserve and is also a UNESCO International Biosphere Reserve.
The Pine Barrens Post is the perfect place to camp during your visit to the Pinelands. Lauren is a fantastic host: her professionalism and attention to detail shines! Upon arrival, we were given a tour of the property, laminated information on area attractions, dining options, etc., and a customized calendar with local events, weather, and tides during the weekend of our visit.
After the tour of the property, we did not want to leave! There are three separate private campsites: Pitch Pines (wooded tent site), Gravel Base (camper/RV site), and Riverside (waterfront tent site). A camping toilet is located within a privacy tent.
All three campsites have use of the water and water sport equipment is available to rent. Jump in for a swim or get out on the water in a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or tube. Or, chill out on the dock with a fishing pole or yoga mat. We opted for the kayak and enjoyed paddling around the peaceful Mullica River.
In addition to the AMAZING WATERFRONT, Lauren also has a burgeoning farm with a garden, chickens, and bees. Definitely purchase some firewood and fresh free-range eggs to cook up for breakfast. Yum.
We eventually decided to venture out. We wandered around nearby Batsto Village - 33 historic buildings including a mansion, gristmill, general store, and workers’ homes - and dropped by the Visitor Center for a history lesson. The Visitor Center also serves as the trailhead for a number of Wharton State Forest hiking trails.
We also checked out the nearby town of Hammonton, “Blueberry Capital of the World”. Hammonton has a cute downtown, multiple wineries and breweries, as well as a homemade ice cream shop.
We’d love to come back for more splashing on the river as well as some blueberry picking!