Belleplain Gate House, Woodbine, NJ

Are you a New Jersey resident seeking an accessible, well-maintained, and genuinely refreshing escape into the great outdoors? Look no further than the Belleplain Gate House campground, a key section of the expansive and beautiful Belleplain State Forest located in Woodbine, NJ. For generations of local campers, this destination has served as a reliable sanctuary, providing a rich, immersive natural experience without requiring an epic journey. Whether you are a seasoned RV enthusiast, a family with a tent, or someone simply looking to unplug for a weekend, Belleplain offers a welcoming environment that feels both remote and right in your backyard.

The Belleplain State Forest itself is a magnificent tract of over 22,000 acres, established in 1928 for conservation and recreation. It features diverse habitats, including Atlantic white cedar swamps and oak-hickory forests, placing it within the Pinelands National Reserve. The Gate House area, specifically the Meisle Campground—which is adjacent to the address provided—is known for its commitment to camper comfort and cleanliness. Recent visitor reviews highlight that the facilities are in "tip top shape," with "newly paved" roads and "immaculate" bathhouses, proving the dedication to maintaining a high-quality camping experience for its local community. The emphasis on a clean environment, including attentive site maintenance, means New Jersey campers can focus entirely on relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Location and Accessibility

The Belleplain Gate House campground is strategically situated in Woodbine, New Jersey, making it a convenient destination for a vast number of South Jersey and Central Jersey residents. The official address for the access point is:

201-299 Meisle Rd, Woodbine, NJ 08270, USA

Its location is not just geographically convenient; it’s also perfectly positioned for accessing other popular regional attractions. For those coming from further north or south, the forest office and surrounding campgrounds are easily reachable via the Garden State Parkway. For local users, the proximity to major routes makes it a quick drive for a weekend trip, minimizing travel time and maximizing outdoor time. Importantly, this location provides that coveted "remote enough" feeling to truly disconnect, while still being a manageable distance from local towns for necessary supplies. The campground section along Meisle Road is one of the distinct camping areas within the forest, offering drive-in access directly to your site, making set-up straightforward for all types of campers, from tent-pitchers to those arriving in larger recreational vehicles.

Services Offered

The campgrounds at Belleplain State Forest, including the Meisle area associated with the Gate House, are designed to accommodate a range of camping styles and needs, ensuring a comfortable stay for all New Jersey families and individuals. Services are focused on providing essential amenities while preserving the natural, wooded environment.

Campsites for Tents, Trailers, and RVs: A large selection of sites with picnic tables and fire rings are available.
Sanitary Facilities: Clean and well-maintained bathhouses with flush toilets and showers are available, a detail frequently praised by visitors as "immaculate."
Laundry Facilities: Available on-site for the convenience of longer-term campers or those needing to quickly refresh clothing.
Drinking Water Access: Potable water access is scattered throughout the campground areas; one user enthusiastically noted the onsite water is "so clean and delicious."
Lean-tos and Group Sites: In addition to standard campsites, there are also fourteen lean-tos with propane heaters (seasonal) and two large group campsites for bigger gatherings.
Trailer Sanitary Station: A dump station is provided for RV and trailer use, typically open from March 1 through November 30.
Firewood Sales: Stacks of firewood are sold at the front office for camper convenience.
Concession Stand: Located at Lake Nummy's beach complex, offering refreshments, novelties, and beach supplies during the swimming season.

Features / Highlights

Beyond the essential services, the natural features and activities available at Belleplain State Forest are what truly set the experience apart for New Jersey outdoor lovers. The forest's history, marked by the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), adds a layer of depth to the experience, with the creation of Lake Nummy being a central feature.

Lake Nummy Recreation Area: A 26-acre lake where swimming is permitted during the summer months when lifeguards are on duty (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day). The area features a sandy beach, changing area, and playground.
Boat and Canoe Rentals: Available at Lake Nummy for a peaceful day of paddling, with a boat launch also available for personal watercraft.
Extensive Trail System: Over forty miles of trails are available for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, including the seven-mile East Creek Trail.
Pet-Friendly Camping: The Meisle Field (Gate House) and CCC campgrounds are designated pet-friendly areas, welcoming domestic dogs and cats (with current vaccination records and a per-night fee), making it easy to bring your furry family members along.
Spacious and Private Sites: Many campsites are noted for being large and well-spaced with good privacy, especially in the wooded areas, allowing for a secluded feel despite the campground's popularity.
Wildlife and Bird Watching: Located within the Pinelands National Reserve, the forest offers exceptional opportunities for viewing diverse wildlife and birds, with two self-guided interpretive trails near Lake Nummy.
Proximity to Shore Points: The forest is conveniently located just a short drive—approximately 30 minutes—from popular Jersey Shore destinations like Ocean City and Cape May, allowing visitors to combine a peaceful camping trip with a day at the beach.

Contact Information

While the Gate House area is a specific section of the campground, general inquiries and reservations are handled through the main State Forest Office. It is highly recommended to contact the main office for the most current information on site availability and reservations, which are essential for securing your spot, especially during peak season.

Address: 201-299 Meisle Rd, Woodbine, NJ 08270, USA (Gate House / Meisle Campground Access)

For Reservations and General Information, contact the main Belleplain State Forest Office.

Main Forest Office Address: 1 Henkinsifkin Road, Woodbine, NJ 08270

Main Forest Office Phone: (609) 861-2404

Conclusion: Why Belleplain Gate House is Suitable for Local New Jersey Residents

For anyone living in New Jersey, particularly those in the southern and central regions, the Belleplain Gate House campground represents the ideal combination of convenience, quality, and authentic wilderness experience. You don't have to drive for hours out of state to find a high-caliber camping destination. This place is consistently lauded by local campers who have made it a tradition since childhood—a true testament to its enduring appeal and recent improvements.

The value proposition for a New Jersey resident is clear: a short drive leads you to a spacious, clean, and well-managed campground that allows both tents and RVs. The recent maintenance and paved roads enhance accessibility, while the cleanliness of the "immaculate" bathrooms removes a common concern for outdoor lodging. Furthermore, having Lake Nummy for swimming and boating, coupled with miles of trails, means there’s an activity for every member of the family, from avid hikers to those just seeking a relaxing swim. Its central location allows locals to truly maximize their weekend getaway, spending less time on the road and more time by the campfire or exploring the unique Pinelands habitat. The Belleplain Gate House campground provides a superior, pet-friendly outdoor retreat that is an irreplaceable part of New Jersey's recreational landscape.