Willow Pond RV Campground

- 5219 8th St, Fort Dix, NJ 08640

Introduction / Overview

Willow Pond RV Campground, often referred to as a ‘FamCamp’ within the military community, offers a practical and serene retreat for eligible local users in the New Jersey region. Situated on the Fort Dix side of the massive Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL), this campground is a dedicated facility operated by the 87th Force Support Squadron’s Outdoor Recreation center. It is specifically designed to provide affordable and accessible camping for active duty service members, military retirees, and other authorized personnel.

The campground is small and intimate, featuring a limited number of sites that back up to the scenic Willow Pond. This provides a quiet, nature-focused environment that contrasts sharply with the nearby military operations. While it is an "ok" campground in terms of luxury, as some long-term campers have noted, its greatest value lies in its prime location, affordability (around $20/night), and the security of being on a military installation. Campers can enjoy the tranquil views of the pond and observe local wildlife, especially the large mouth bass that feed in the mornings. It operates year-round, offering a consistent option for RV and trailer owners.

Location and Accessibility

Willow Pond RV Campground is located at the heart of the Fort Dix section of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, placing it centrally in Burlington County, New Jersey. This location provides convenient access to major arteries, making it an excellent base for exploring the South Jersey region, including a relatively short drive to the state's popular beaches and historical sites. However, it is critical to note that access is strictly controlled.

The physical address is 5219 8th St, Fort Dix, NJ 08640, USA, a location that requires authorized entry onto the active military installation. Eligibility to stay and access the base generally extends to: Active Duty Military, Reservists, National Guard, Military Retirees, 100% Disabled Veterans (with proper identification), and in some cases, certain DoD Civilians and Contractors, though it is always best to verify eligibility directly with the Outdoor Recreation office prior to planning a trip.

New Jersey users who are part of the eligible military community will appreciate the secure, well-maintained environment. A notable "caveat" for new visitors is the required check-in process. Even after completing initial paperwork online, guests must physically drive to the Outdoor Recreation Center to finalize check-in, a necessary step for maintaining base security protocols.

Services Offered

Willow Pond RV Campground offers essential hookups and facilities designed to serve the needs of self-contained RV and travel trailer owners in the area.

• RV Sites: A total of 8 designated sites are available, all of which are back-in only and feature gravel pads noted by users as generally level.
• Hookups: Each site is equipped with water and 30-amp electric service (30A).
• Dump Station: A convenient on-site dump station is available for grey and black water disposal.
• Laundry/Showers (Off-Site): The on-site campground bathroom facilities are reported by users as frequently locked or in need of maintenance. For showering and filling small camper tanks, guests are advised to use the more reliable and well-maintained facilities at the Field House, located approximately a five-minute drive away on the base.
• Reservations and Check-In: Reservations are necessary and require an online paperwork process, which must be followed by an in-person check-in at the Outdoor Recreation office.
• Pricing: The daily rate is highly affordable, typically around $20 per night for eligible military/retired military personnel.

Features / Highlights

The unique nature of being located on an active military installation and adjacent to a picturesque water feature provides Willow Pond RV Campground with its most distinctive highlights for local military families and retirees.

• Tranquil Lakefront Setting: The campsites feature a peaceful view overlooking the small Willow Pond and an open grassy area, creating a calm atmosphere. The pond is also home to abundant local wildlife and is noted for its large mouth bass, offering basic fishing opportunities.
• Peaceful Weekends: Although the campground backs up to a main base road that experiences heavy traffic from army trucks on weekdays, the weekends typically see a significant reduction in activity, making it a particularly peaceful retreat during Saturday and Sunday.
• Secure Environment: As a secured military facility, the campground offers a high level of safety and security for guests, which is a major draw for military families.
• Proximity to Base Amenities: Campers have convenient access to other base facilities, including the Field House (for showering), the Exchange (PX), Commissary, and the gas station (though users should be aware that the Fort Dix side station closes in the evenings, requiring a drive to the McGuire side for after-hours fueling).
• Affordable Base Camp: Its low daily rate makes it an extremely cost-effective option for military personnel looking for a home base while exploring the New Jersey shore, Philadelphia, or visiting family in the region.

Contact Information

All reservations and inquiries for Willow Pond RV Campground are handled by the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Outdoor Recreation Center.

Address (Campground Location): 5219 8th St, Fort Dix, NJ 08640, USA

Phone (Outdoor Recreation Center): (609) 562-6667

Mobile Phone: +1 609-562-6667

Note: All eligible users should call the Outdoor Recreation Center for the latest information on reservations, eligibility requirements, and check-in procedures.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For New Jersey residents who are current or former members of the U.S. Military, Willow Pond RV Campground is an incredibly suitable and valuable local resource. It serves a specific, deserving community by providing an affordable and highly secure RV camping location right in the state's center. The low daily cost—roughly $20/night—is a major incentive, allowing military families to save money while enjoying the outdoors or using the base as a waypoint for East Coast travel.

While the facility is no-frills, its unique characteristics, such as the lovely Willow Pond view and the general weekend quietude, provide a much-needed sense of tranquility. It allows eligible local users to leverage their military benefits, granting them access to a secure, private recreational area away from the crowds of commercial parks. Despite the minor inconveniences—like the busy weekday road and the need for off-site showers—the campground's core benefits of security, affordability, and a pleasant, small-scale natural setting make it a highly recommended local option for New Jersey's military community.

Willow Pond RV Campground

5219 8th St, Fort Dix, NJ 08640, USA