Godfrey Bridge Campground

For those living in New Jersey, the call of the Pine Barrens is a unique experience that offers a complete departure from the bustling suburban corridors and coastal boardwalks. Nestled within the expansive Wharton State Forest—the largest single tract of land within the New Jersey State Park system—lies the Godfrey Bridge Campground. This local favorite provides an authentic, rustic outdoor experience for campers who appreciate the quiet rustle of pitch pines and the tea-colored waters of the Wading River. Whether you are a seasoned woodsman or a family looking for a weekend escape, this campground serves as a gateway to the natural beauty and rich industrial history of South Jersey.

The Godfrey Bridge Campground is managed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and is widely recognized for its prime location along the West Branch of the Wading River. It is a place where the air smells of cedar and pine, and the nights are dark enough to reveal a brilliant canopy of stars. Unlike the highly developed RV resorts found in other parts of the state, Godfrey Bridge maintains a primitive charm that encourages visitors to truly unplug. From winter camping adventures to summer tubing trips, the campground is a year-round destination for those who want to immerse themselves in the "Other New Jersey."

• Overview: A state-run primitive campground offering 34 designated sites suitable for tents and small trailers.
• Environment: Located within the Pine Barrens ecosystem, characterized by sandy soil, dense pine forests, and proximity to river systems.
• Atmosphere: Quiet and secluded during the off-season, with more vibrant activity during the summer months due to river recreation.

Location and accessibility are key factors for New Jersey residents planning their trips. Godfrey Bridge Campground is located on Godfrey Bridge Road in Chatsworth, NJ, within the Washington Township section of Burlington County. For locals, it is conveniently situated about 30 minutes from Atlantic City and less than an hour from Philadelphia and Trenton. Accessing the campground is straightforward via major thoroughfares like US-206 and CR-563, though visitors should be aware that once they enter the forest, the roads transition into the classic sandy tracks the region is known for.

While the main roads leading to the campground are paved, the internal loops and nearby fire roads can be narrow. For those bringing vehicles, the campground supports a maximum trailer or RV length of 22 feet. Larger rigs are generally discouraged due to the tight turns and the nature of the sandy sites. On-site parking is available for two vehicles per site, ensuring that you can keep your gear close at hand without having to trek from a distant lot.

• Primary Address: Godfrey Bridge Rd, Chatsworth, NJ 08019, USA.
• Regional Landmarks: Near the intersection of CR-542 and CR-563, approximately 15 miles northeast of the Hammonton area.
• Proximity to Attractions: A short drive from the historic Batsto Village and the Franklin Parker Preserve.

The services offered at Godfrey Bridge Campground are designed to facilitate a "back-to-basics" lifestyle. As a primitive camping area, it does not provide electric or water hookups for RVs, which helps maintain the serene environment. However, essential amenities are provided to ensure a comfortable stay. The campground features public restrooms in the form of pit toilets (outhouses). While these are regularly maintained, local campers often recommend bringing your own supplies, such as toilet paper and hand sanitizer, to be fully prepared.

Running water is available via a hand pump located in the nearby picnic area, roughly a short walk from most campsites. This water is potable, but many frequent visitors choose to bring their own gallon jugs for convenience at their specific site. The campground also adheres to a strict "Carry In, Carry Out" policy for trash, which helps preserve the pristine nature of the Pinelands. Visitors are expected to bag all refuse and take it with them upon departure.

• Campsite Equipment: Each of the 34 sites is equipped with a fire ring and a picnic table.
• Sanitation: Public pit toilets are available on-site; no showers are provided at this specific location.
• Water Access: Potable water is accessible via a manual hand pump in the common picnic area.
• Pet Policy: Dogs are allowed, provided they are leashed and registered as part of your camping permit.
• Reservations: Available through the New Jersey State Park Service online portal or by calling the Wharton State Forest office.

The features and highlights of Godfrey Bridge make it a standout choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The biggest draw is undoubtedly the Wading River. The campground sits right along the riverbanks, making it an ideal launch point for kayaking, canoeing, and tubing. Local outfitters like Mick’s Canoe Rental operate nearby, providing transportation and equipment for those who don’t have their own. The river is shallow and slow-moving, making it perfect for families with children or those looking for a relaxing afternoon on the water.

For hikers, the campground offers immediate access to a network of trails. A spur trail connects the campground to the famous Batona Trail, a 53-mile wilderness path that stretches across the Pinelands. Wildlife observation is another highlight; it is common to see various bird species, turtles, and the occasional white-tailed deer. History buffs will also find plenty to explore nearby, including the ruins of the Alloway Monument and the Washington Tavern, which provide a glimpse into the region’s colonial and industrial past.

• River Activities: Swimming, tubing, and kayaking on the West Branch of the Wading River.
• Hiking Trails: Close proximity to the Batona Trail and various kid-friendly loops within the forest.
• Historic Sites: Easy access to the ruins of a concrete sawmill and the nearby Batsto Village (approx. 10 miles away).
• Family Friendly: Sites are well-shaded and generally flat, making them excellent for children and tent setups.
• Winter Camping: One of the few locations in the region that allows for winter stays, offering a very private and quiet experience.

If you need to reach the park office for specific questions regarding site availability, seasonal closures, or local conditions, the following contact information is available for Wharton State Forest headquarters, which oversees the Godfrey Bridge site:

• Physical Address: Godfrey Bridge Rd, Chatsworth, NJ 08019, USA
• Office Phone: (609) 561-0024
• Mobile/Secondary Phone: +1 609-561-0024

What makes Godfrey Bridge Campground worth choosing over other options in the Garden State? It is the perfect middle ground between "wilderness" and "accessible." You get the feeling of being deep in the woods without needing to hike miles to reach your site. For those who enjoy the social aspect of camping, the proximity to the Wading River means you’ll often find a community of like-minded nature lovers nearby. However, if you choose to visit during the winter or mid-week, the privacy is unparalleled.

The site is also a cost-effective way to explore the Pine Barrens. Whether you are using it as a basecamp for a multi-day kayaking trip or simply want a weekend away from the screen, the combination of river access, hiking trails, and historical landmarks provides a diverse range of activities for a single trip. Choosing Godfrey Bridge means choosing to support New Jersey’s state parks while creating lasting memories in one of the most unique ecosystems on the East Coast.

• Natural Beauty: Exceptional shade provided by mature pines, keeping the area cool even in the heat of summer.
• Versatility: Supports both primitive tent camping and small trailer/RV camping.
• Adventure: Offers some of the best water-based recreation in South Jersey.