Buttonwood Hill Campsite

For New Jersey residents seeking a true escape from the fast-paced metropolitan environment, Buttonwood Hill Campsite offers a glimpse into the raw, untouched beauty of the Pine Barrens. Located within the sprawling boundaries of Wharton State Forest, this campsite is a favorite for those who value solitude and a primitive connection with nature. Unlike the more developed "resort-style" campgrounds found elsewhere in the state, Buttonwood Hill is designed for the traditionalist—the hiker, the backpacker, and the family looking to unplug and experience the wilderness as it was centuries ago. The atmosphere is quiet, serene, and deeply immersive, providing a perfect backdrop for a weekend of reflection and outdoor exploration.

Known as a "hidden gem" among local outdoor enthusiasts, Buttonwood Hill Campsite is situated in a region rich with colonial history and ecological diversity. The surrounding area was once home to Crowleytown, a small 19th-century settlement, and the campsite itself serves as a quiet sentinel at the crossroads of some of South Jersey's most storied hiking paths. While the facilities are minimalist, the trade-off is an unparalleled sense of peace and a front-row seat to the unique flora and fauna of the New Jersey Pinelands. It is a place where the crackle of a campfire and the rustle of Atlantic white cedars replace the noise of the city, offering a rejuvenating experience for the soul.

Location and accessibility are important considerations for those planning a visit to this part of Wharton State Forest. Buttonwood Hill Campsite is located off Route 542 in Egg Harbor City, NJ 08215. While the address lists Egg Harbor City, it is essentially positioned between the historic Batsto Village and the Mullica River. Accessibility is straightforward via well-maintained state roads, but visitors should be aware that the campsite itself maintains a rugged character. There is a small on-site parking area that accommodates a few vehicles, making it accessible for car camping, though many use it as a strategic stopover while traversing the long-distance Batona Trail. Its proximity to Crowleys Landing Boat Launch also makes it a convenient spot for those exploring the local waterways by canoe or kayak.

The services offered at Buttonwood Hill reflect its status as a primitive camping area. In keeping with the "wilderness" philosophy of the Pine Barrens, services are limited to the essentials. This is not a site with electrical hookups or modern plumbing; rather, it is a location that encourages self-sufficiency. Campers are required to bring their own supplies and adhere to a strict "carry-in, carry-out" policy to protect the delicate ecosystem. Because it is a state-managed site, a permit is mandatory, which can be obtained through the New Jersey State Park Service. This ensures that the area remains lightly used and preserves the quiet atmosphere that regulars have come to love.

• Five designated tent sites that offer a spacious and private forest setting.
• Sturdy, old-fashioned wooden picnic tables at each site for outdoor dining.
• Traditional fire rings provided at every campsite for safe and controlled campfires.
• Access to a primitive pit toilet facility located within the camping area.
• Direct trailhead access to a network of historic and scenic hiking routes.
• Pet-friendly accommodations, provided that dogs remain on a leash at all times.
• Mandatory registration and permit system to ensure a regulated and safe camping environment.

The features and highlights of Buttonwood Hill Campsite are centered on its exceptional access to the outdoors. The standout feature for many is the direct connection to the 1808 Trail, a historic logging road turned hiking path that connects the campsite to Batsto Village. This trail offers a fascinating journey through Mordecai Swamp, where hikers can view towering cedars and vibrant mountain laurels. Additionally, the campsite is a critical link for those tackling the 50-mile Batona Trail, providing a rustic place to rest. For families, the area is noted for being "kid-friendly" due to the level terrain and the educational opportunities provided by the nearby historic sites and diverse natural landscape.

• Direct access to the 1808 Trail, offering a scenic 5-mile out-and-back hike or a 7-mile loop to Batsto Village.
• Excellent proximity to the Batona Trail, New Jersey’s premier long-distance wilderness path.
• Located near Crowleys Landing, providing easy access for boating, fishing, and kayaking on the Mullica River.
• Large, well-spaced campsites that prevent the "crowded" feeling of more commercial campgrounds.
• A quiet environment that becomes exceptionally peaceful at night, ideal for stargazing in the dark skies of the Pinelands.
• Kid-friendly hiking options with minimal elevation gain, perfect for introducing younger children to the outdoors.
• Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, from local bird species to the unique plants of the swampy lowlands.

To ensure a successful trip, it is highly recommended to prepare for the primitive nature of the site. This includes bringing plenty of potable water, as there is no functional water tap or spigot at the campsite itself. Additionally, visitors should take standard New Jersey forest precautions, such as using insect repellent and performing regular tick checks, especially during the warmer months.

Contact Information:
Address: Route 542, Egg Harbor City, NJ 08215, USA
Management: Wharton State Forest (Atsion or Batsto Office)
Phone: (609) 561-0024 (Batsto Office) or (609) 268-0444 (Atsion Office)

What is worth choosing about Buttonwood Hill Campsite is the opportunity to experience the "authentic" New Jersey wilderness. In a state where many outdoor spaces are highly developed, Buttonwood Hill remains a sanctuary for those who want to practice traditional woodcraft and enjoy the silence of the forest. It is worth choosing for the hiker who wants to step out of their tent and immediately be on a trail with 200 years of history. It is also worth choosing for families who want to teach their children about self-reliance and the beauty of nature without the distractions of playgrounds or Wi-Fi.

Furthermore, the campsite’s location near Batsto Village allows for a perfect blend of natural recreation and historical education. You can spend your morning hiking the 1808 Trail and your afternoon exploring a colonial iron-working town. While the pit toilets and lack of running water may be a challenge for some, those who come prepared will find that the trade-off—a massive, private site in the heart of the Pine Barrens—is more than worth it. For the local New Jersey camper who wants to avoid the crowds and truly disappear into the woods for a night or two, Buttonwood Hill Campsite is a premier choice that honors the heritage of the Garden State's wild places.

Would you like me to help you look up the current permit fees or provide a detailed map of the 1808 Trail loop for your next visit?