Shamong, New Jersey

Camp at Wharton State Forest

Originally added by The Outbound Collective

Known as the largest state park in New Jersey, Wharton has extensive camping options, as well as natural attractions like the Mullica River, historical sites, and great wildlife spotting opportunities.

There is plenty of potential for activity in New Jersey's largest state park. Wharton offers Mullica River for boating, as well as three other rivers for canoeing. Hikers can follow the 50-mile Batona Trail, which connects Wharton to the Brendan T. Byrne and Bass River State Forests. Other trails are open to mountain biking and horseback riding.

There is great bird-watching in the park, too – potential sightings include bald eagles, hawks, and ospreys; you might also catch sight of river otters, foxes, and beavers. For history buffs, tour the remaining facilities of Baststo Village, a 18th-19th c. industrial center.

The park has lots of campsites to choose from. The Atsion campground has 50 tent and trailer sites, and Godfrey Bridge has 34. There are 16 group campsites, in addition to a number of primitive campsites. Nine cabins are available, as well.

Photo Credit: Owl's Flight