Atsion Campsites

A low-key, low amenities sandy spot in the NJ Pinelands. This was a nice large site in the “pet-friendly” section (sites 26-34) of the campground. Site 34 is close to Atsion Road, so there was car noise, but it wasn’t really an issue to us. The restroom/shower facility was very clean. There is access to potable water, though there is no dishwashing station, so you need to create your own system at your campsite. Directly across the street from the entrance to the campground is a family that sells firewood for $5 a bundle for you to carry away.

Only criticism relates to poor communication on how to check-in. On the day of our arrival, the Wharton State Forest Atsion Office (not on-site), where we thought we were supposed to check-in, was closed and a sign on the door said to use the Batsto Office—a phone number was provided, but multiple attempts at calling resulted in a constant busy signal. Couldn’t make it to the Batsto Office in time (it closes at 4pm). We just gave up, as the site is paid for and they have our information.

Lots of really huge sites at this campground and some with lake views and access for kayaks/canoes.

We stayed in Cabin 1. Very impressed with the real deal cabin look and feel. Nice having full bath. Shower nice and hot. Back porch is awesome with beautiful lake like a few feet from the porch. Fireplace inside was great. Theres a firepit and table outside. Decent size area.

Things to consider. We knew to bring our own linens. However...all windows have no cover. Bring old sheets and hang if you want privacy. There is a road leading onto the sites. It is not a major roadway. But gets a reasonable amount of traffic. People are hauling @$$. Could use some brush to make sites between more private. Oh...and the carpenter bees just love the place. Cell service was hit and miss.

But...for the money....very pleased!

This is a really low amenity campground so envision lots of trees and a pretty lake with dirt roads and an extremely dirty “bath house.” You absolutely must bring water shoes for the bath house and prepare for the worst.
The pros: the sites are beautiful, the ground is soft to sleep on. if it rains and you have a puddle-prone site that will be something to manage in a tent.
The lake is amazing! I have some beautiful pictures from that memory. You can canoe and kayak on the lake, too. There is a boat rental place in the general vicinity.
Bring your bug repellant and firewood and ALL supplies because there is no camp store. You can travel a little bit to get to stores though. I believe they are 20 mins away.
Summary: It’s a nice nature escape but very primitive.