Atsion Family Campground

For those of us living in New Jersey who crave an authentic outdoor experience, far from the daily grind yet within easy reach, Atsion Family Campground offers an ideal escape. Nestled within the vast and historic Wharton State Forest in Shamong, this beloved campground provides a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and essential amenities for a memorable family getaway. It’s a place where the pristine waters of Atsion Lake beckon for a swim, where miles of trails invite exploration, and where evenings are best spent around a crackling campfire under the starry Pinelands sky.

Atsion Family Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it’s a gateway to the unique ecosystem of the New Jersey Pine Barrens. Whether you're a seasoned camper with all the gear, a family looking to introduce children to the joys of the outdoors, or simply seeking a tranquil respite from city life, Atsion offers a welcoming environment. It embodies the spirit of traditional camping while providing convenient access to a wealth of activities, ensuring there's something to captivate every member of your group.

Atsion Family Campground is centrally located within the sprawling Wharton State Forest, Shamong, NJ 08088, USA. Its strategic position along Route 206 makes it highly accessible for residents coming from various parts of New Jersey, as well as neighboring states. Despite its easy access, the campground feels wonderfully removed, enveloped by the dense forests and unique landscapes of the Pinelands.

This location is particularly advantageous for those seeking diverse outdoor adventures. Not only does the campground sit directly on Atsion Lake, providing immediate access to water-based activities, but it's also a gateway to the extensive trail network of Wharton State Forest. Historical sites like Batsto Village, a restored 19th-century industrial village, are just a short drive away, offering educational and cultural excursions. The balance between serene natural surroundings and convenient proximity to both forest attractions and main roadways makes Atsion Family Campground an exceptionally practical and desirable choice for a local outdoor escape.

Atsion Family Campground provides a range of services and facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all campers:

• Campsites: The campground offers 50 tent and trailer sites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. These sites are suitable for various camping setups, from traditional tents to RVs (up to approximately 22 feet in length, though some sources indicate up to 40 feet). Potable water, flush toilets, and showers are conveniently located within walking distance of the sites.

• Cabins: For those seeking a bit more comfort, Atsion also features nine furnished cabins. These cabins come with screened porches, fireplaces (bring your own wood!), outdoor campfire rings, refrigerators, hot and cold running water, and a bathroom with a toilet and shower. Cabins vary in size, accommodating 4, 6, or 8 people, and importantly, all cabins are designed to be accessible for people with disabilities. Note that cabins are available from early May through late October.

• Clean Restrooms and Showers: Visitors consistently highlight the cleanliness and good condition of the restroom and shower facilities, which is a major plus for any campground experience.

• Trailer Sanitary Station: A trailer sanitary station is available for RV campers, typically open from April 1st through October 31st, providing a convenient place for waste disposal.

• Pet-Friendly Campsites: Atsion Family Campground has designated pet-friendly campsites (sites 26 through 34), allowing well-behaved domestic dogs and cats to join the adventure for an additional fee. Proof of current rabies vaccinations is required during check-in.

• Concession Building: A concession building near the swimming beach offers refreshments, novelties, and beach supplies during the summer months.

• Camp Office: The Atsion Office is open seven days a week, providing assistance, information, and a point of contact for campers.

Atsion Family Campground is rich with features and activities that make it a standout destination for outdoor recreation in New Jersey:

• Atsion Lake and Beach: The campground is located directly on Atsion Lake, a beautiful freshwater lake with a designated swimming beach. Swimming is permitted during the summer months when lifeguards are on duty, offering a safe and refreshing way to cool off. The beach area includes changing facilities, restrooms, and a first-aid station.

• Boating, Canoeing, and Kayaking: Atsion Lake and the surrounding Mullica River provide excellent opportunities for boating (electric motors only on Atsion Lake), canoeing, and kayaking. Canoe and kayak rentals are often available at Atsion Lake, or you can bring your own. Launching fees apply for the Mullica River during peak season.

• Fishing: The lake and rivers are popular spots for fishing, offering a chance to reel in some local catches. Remember to check New Jersey's fishing regulations.

• Extensive Trail System: Being part of Wharton State Forest, Atsion offers immediate access to hundreds of miles of multi-use trails. These include sections of the famous Batona Trail (a 50-mile trail that connects several state forests), as well as numerous sand roads suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. There's even a reservable Track Chair for visitors with mobility impairments to explore select trails.

• Picnic Areas and Playgrounds: The Atsion Recreation Area provides picnic tables and charcoal grills for day-use visitors and campers, along with two small playgrounds for children.

• Historic Batsto Village: A major historical attraction, Batsto Village is a restored 19th-century industrial village located nearby within Wharton State Forest. Visitors can explore its museum, blacksmith shop, and take guided tours, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's past.

• Atsion Mansion Tours: The historic Atsion Mansion, built in 1826, is open for architectural tours, reflecting its Greek Revival style and history as a summer home and later a cranberry packing facility.

• Year-Round Camping (Tent/Trailer Sites): While cabins have a seasonal opening, the tent and trailer campsites at Atsion are open year-round, allowing for diverse camping experiences across all seasons, from warm summer nights to crisp autumn and quiet winter stays.

As a New Jersey State Park campground, Atsion Family Campground typically operates under a fixed pricing structure set by the state. Therefore, it may not offer frequent, short-term "promotions" in the same way a private business might. However, its state-managed status inherently offers several ongoing advantages that act as a form of value or "special offer" for residents:

• Affordable Rates: State park campgrounds are generally more affordable than private campgrounds, making outdoor recreation accessible to a wider range of budgets. New Jersey residents often receive a discounted rate compared to out-of-state visitors.

• Seasonal Passes/Permits: For frequent visitors to New Jersey State Parks, various passes might be available that offer savings on entrance fees or certain activities, though specific details should be checked on the official NJ State Park Service website.

• Online Reservation System: The ability to conveniently book campsites and cabins online through www.camping.nj.gov simplifies the planning process and ensures availability, especially during peak seasons.

For the most current pricing, reservation availability, and any specific state park passes or programs that might offer value, it is highly recommended to visit the official New Jersey State Park Service website (nj.gov/dep/parksandforests) or contact the Atsion Office directly. Booking in advance, particularly for popular summer weekends or cabin rentals, is always advisable.

For reservations, inquiries about amenities, or current conditions at Atsion Family Campground, please use the following contact information:

Address: Wharton State Forest, Shamong, NJ 08088, USA (Atsion Office is specifically located at 744 Rt. 206 Shamong NJ 08088)

Phone: (609) 268-0444 (Atsion Office)

It's always a good idea to call the Atsion Office directly, especially during peak season, to check on swimming conditions, capacity limits, or specific campfire regulations.

For us New Jersey residents, Atsion Family Campground stands out as an exceptional local resource for outdoor adventure and relaxation. Its prime location within Wharton State Forest means that a true wilderness experience is just a short drive away, making it incredibly convenient for weekend getaways or longer vacations without the need for extensive travel.

What makes Atsion particularly suitable for locals is its comprehensive offering: you get the best of lake activities, from swimming at a guarded beach to paddling and fishing, combined with extensive opportunities for land-based exploration through hiking, biking, and even horseback riding trails. The choice between traditional tent/RV sites and comfortable, accessible cabins means there’s a lodging option for almost every preference and level of camping experience.

The campground’s commitment to maintaining clean facilities, coupled with the natural beauty and diverse recreational options of a well-preserved state forest, creates an environment that truly allows families and individuals to disconnect from daily stressors and reconnect with nature. It’s a place where childhood memories are made by the campfire, where the sounds of the Pinelands fill the air, and where the refreshing waters of Atsion Lake offer respite on a warm summer day. Atsion Family Campground is not just a place to camp; it’s a cherished part of New Jersey's natural heritage, providing an accessible and enriching outdoor experience right in our own backyard.

Atsion Family Campground

Shamong, NJ 08088, USA