Home to Wharton State Forest, Double Trouble State Forest, and Bass River State Forest, the Pinelands are perhaps the most remote part of New Jersey. You’ll find over a million acres of protected woodlands, along with lakes and rivers. If you want to get away from it all in the Garden State, the Pinelands are the place to go. While much of the area is quite quiet, some spots are more secluded than others. This one campsite definitely leans towards the deserted.
At 122,800 acres, Wharton State Forest is the largest park in the Pinelands (and the state of New Jersey).
Flickr/Carly Schwartz
There’s plenty to do here, including swimming at Atsion Lake and visiting historic Batsto Village.
Flickr/Julie Feinstein
Opportunities for outdoor fun abound! Hiking is popular, with trails ranging from .5 to 53 miles (extending beyond the park’s borders).
Flickr/Matt Swern
If you enjoy hiking, spending a night at the Mullica River Wilderness Campsite may be a perfect pick for you.
Flickr/Jack And Dianne
Located right on the Mullica River, it isn’t easy to get to. You’re over 4 miles from civilization, and no motorized vehicles are allowed.
Flickr/Shawn Perez
You’ll have to haul all your gear - there are no cabins here. Hiking means roughing it…
Flickr/Jack and Diane
For a more relaxing experience, bring your horse along! No horse? No problem!
Flickr/Julie Feinstein
The BEST way to get to this campsite is by boat. You’ll enjoy a scenic ride and won’t need to carry a thing.
Flickr/Jack And Dianne
Though you’ll have plenty to bring. A tent, sleeping bag, and snacks are essential.
Flickr/RE Barber Photography
While this is a rustic, primitive camping site, you’ll still find potable water and pit toilets.
Flickr/Kevin
To truly escape everyday life and abandon all amenities, head to Lower Forge Campground - no potable water, no pit toilets…but it is pet friendly. Bring your boat (or rent one) and get away for a day!
Flickr/George Schnakenberg Jr.
Permits are required for camping but it doesn’t cost much. You can expect to pay $3 per person, per night as a New Jersey resident ($5 for non-residents). To learn more about what you’ll find at Wharton State Forest, click here.
Flickr/Carly Schwartz
Flickr/Julie Feinstein
Flickr/Matt Swern
Flickr/Jack And Dianne
Flickr/Shawn Perez
Flickr/Jack and Diane
Flickr/RE Barber Photography
Flickr/Kevin
Flickr/George Schnakenberg Jr.
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