Goshen Pond Camping Area

- Wharton State Forest, Shamong, NJ 08088

Introduction / Overview

For New Jersey residents yearning for a genuine wilderness experience, a true opportunity to disconnect from the digital noise and immerse themselves in nature, the Goshen Pond Camping Area is a premier destination. Located within the sprawling, ecologically rich Wharton State Forest in Shamong, this campground epitomizes the concept of 'primitive camping.' It is the antidote to the bustling, amenity-heavy resorts, offering a quiet, peaceful retreat focused purely on the natural environment.

Goshen Pond is situated near its namesake pond, which is actually a picturesque section of the upper Mullica River, often formed by beaver activity. Unlike the more developed campsites nearby, Goshen Pond is intentionally kept rustic. It features individual and group tent sites that require a short walk-in from the parking area, which significantly reduces vehicle noise and enhances the sense of seclusion. Customer reviews consistently praise this atmosphere, noting, "This is a true gem if you are looking for a quiet place to camp! At night there was no noise but the sounds from the forest." It is a nature lover's paradise, a place where you can guarantee the nights are "really dark as well and peaceful," making for a restorative night's sleep.

The campground is an exceptionally budget-friendly option for local users, with state park fees being notably low for New Jersey residents. This affordability, combined with the raw, undeveloped setting, attracts serious hikers, paddlers, and campers who prioritize tranquility and self-sufficiency over electric hookups and Wi-Fi. It is essential to understand the primitive nature of the site before visiting, as amenities are basic—a feature that many loyal campers consider its greatest strength.

Location and Accessibility

The Goshen Pond Camping Area is nestled deep within the Pinelands National Reserve, yet remains highly accessible for residents of New Jersey. Its official address is Wharton State Forest, Shamong, NJ 08088, USA, placing it in Burlington County, a central point for many South and Central Jersey travelers.

The campground is located a short distance off Atsion Road, which connects to U.S. Route 206, a key highway for regional access. While the location feels remote—a feature highly valued by campers seeking quiet—it is not difficult to reach by car. Visitors should be prepared to drive on maintained dirt or sand roads typical of the Pine Barrens environment.

A defining characteristic of Goshen Pond is its emphasis on walk-in sites. The main parking area is set slightly apart from the camping loops, requiring a short carry of gear to the campsite. This intentional design choice eliminates vehicle traffic noise right at the tent sites, contributing to the "peaceful" environment that local users seek when looking to "get away from it all." Furthermore, the site is positioned conveniently near other regional attractions. The more developed Atsion Recreation Area, with its lake swimming and main office, is only a five-minute drive away, providing a nearby option for additional activities or information.

Services Offered

As a designated primitive camping area within Wharton State Forest, Goshen Pond’s services are intentionally minimal, catering to campers who value simplicity and immersion in the environment.

• Campsites for Tent Camping: The area offers approximately sixteen individual tent sites and three larger group campsites. These sites are mostly walk-in and designed to accommodate tents, encouraging a traditional, low-impact camping experience.
• Potable Water Access: Drinking water is available on-site via a hand pump. While the water is potable, many experienced campers recommend bringing bottled water for convenience, especially during long stays.
• Sanitary Facilities: Primitive outhouse-style pit toilets are available. Note that there are no flush toilets or shower facilities at Goshen Pond itself; those seeking full bathhouses would need to use the amenities at the nearby Atsion Family Campground.
• Basic Site Provisions: Each individual and group site is furnished with a fire ring for cooking and campfires, though local fire regulations must always be strictly observed.
• Pet-Friendly: Goshen Pond is one of the designated pet-friendly camping areas in Wharton State Forest, allowing registered domestic dogs and cats, provided all pet rules and fees are followed.
• Group Camping: Three distinct group campsites (Goshen A, B, and C) are available, with capacities ranging from 15 to 50 people, making it an excellent option for local youth groups, clubs, or large family gatherings seeking a communal wilderness experience.

Features / Highlights

Goshen Pond Camping Area's distinct features are what truly set it apart as a true wilderness spot for the New Jersey outdoor community.

• True Primitive Experience: This is its most significant highlight. Goshen Pond provides an authentic 'back to basics' camping trip with no electricity, no running water at the sites, and no Wi-Fi. This forces a genuine disconnect, allowing campers to fully appreciate the forest sounds and the deep, star-filled darkness of the Pine Barrens night.
• Incredibly Affordable Rates for NJ Residents: The pricing is a major highlight, consistently praised by campers. Individual sites are available for a nominal nightly fee, making a wilderness escape accessible on any budget.
• Proximity to Goshen Pond/Mullica River: The campground is situated right by the pond, which is the upper section of the Mullica River. Some sites offer excellent views of the water, and the area is perfect for fishing or launching a canoe or kayak for a peaceful paddle along the river system.
• Direct Access to Hiking and Multi-Use Trails: The campground is directly connected to the extensive trail network of Wharton State Forest, including the Goshen Pond Trail. This provides endless opportunities for walking, hiking, and exploring the unique sand roads and pine-oak forests of the Pinelands.
• Year-Round Operation: Unlike some seasonal campgrounds, Goshen Pond is open year-round, allowing dedicated local campers to experience the unique beauty and solitude of the Pine Barrens in every season, including the quiet, less-buggy winter months.
• Nature and Wildlife Immersion: Being deep in the woods, this spot offers exceptional opportunities for nature photography, bird watching, and wildlife observation. Campers should be prepared to encounter local fauna, including various reptiles and insects, as part of the authentic wilderness experience.

Contact Information

Reservations for Goshen Pond Camping Area are managed through the New Jersey State Park Service and should be booked in advance, particularly for group sites. The main administrative contact for the area is the Atsion Office of Wharton State Forest.

Address: Wharton State Forest, Shamong, NJ 08088, USA

Phone: (609) 268-0444 / Mobile Phone: +1 609-268-0444 (Atsion Office)

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents across New Jersey, Goshen Pond Camping Area offers a distinctive and highly suitable retreat. In a state known for its fast pace, this campground is a necessary antidote—a protected, tranquil slice of wilderness that feels a world away, yet remains an easy drive for most of the population.

The affordability for New Jersey residents is a compelling reason to choose this spot, making multi-day outdoor immersion an accessible and cost-effective option for families and budget-conscious adventurers. The primitive setting appeals directly to the local user who has outgrown crowded, paved campgrounds and is now seeking a more authentic, self-reliant experience. It’s the perfect place to test new gear, teach kids true camping skills, or simply find a quiet place for reflection and nature photography.

The direct access to multi-use trails and the Mullica River system ensures that Goshen Pond serves not just as a campsite, but as a base camp for extensive local exploration. Whether you are launching a kayak onto the pond, setting out on a long day hike on the sand roads, or simply sitting by the fire to enjoy the sounds of the Pinelands at night, Goshen Pond Camping Area is a foundational New Jersey outdoor experience that offers unparalleled quietude and connection to the state’s unique natural heritage. It is the ultimate local escape for those ready to embrace the quiet beauty of the Pinelands wilderness.

Goshen Pond Camping Area

Wharton State Forest, Shamong, NJ 08088, USA