Godfrey Bridge Campground

Godfrey Bridge Campground At A Glance...

• Primitive, back-to-nature camping experience.
• Located within the largest single tract of state-owned land in New Jersey.
• Access to the Mullica River for paddling.
• Excellent base for exploring Wharton State Forest's extensive network of unpaved roads and trails.
• Offers a quieter alternative to more developed campgrounds.
• Todays Sunrise: ,   Sunset:  
• New Jersey Delaware River Region Burlington County

• Camping:

  • 0-0 All Campgrounds and RV parks
  • Drive-up camping
  • Medium sized lots (good for popups)
  • Tent Camping Available
  • Pit Toilets

Contact / Location

A Brief History

Wharton State Forest, where Godfrey Bridge is located, has a rich history dating back to Native American inhabitants. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the area was a hub for bog iron production, glassmaking, and paper milling. Joseph Wharton, a Philadelphia industrialist, purchased large tracts of land in the late 19th century with plans to pipe water to Philadelphia, a plan that never materialized. The state acquired the land in the 1950s, establishing Wharton State Forest. Godfrey Bridge itself is a historic crossing point over the Mullica River.

Programs / Education

Wharton State Forest, including areas accessible from Godfrey Bridge, offers various educational opportunities, though less structured at primitive sites:

• Nature observation and self-guided exploration of the unique Pine Barrens ecosystem.
• Historical context available through signage at Batsto Village and other points within the forest.
• The main forest office at Batsto Village may offer scheduled programs or information on natural and historical resources (check official website).

Trail & Path Info

Godfrey Bridge Campground provides access to Wharton State Forest's vast network of sandy roads and trails suitable for hiking, and in some areas, mountain biking and horseback riding. The nearby Batona Trail, a major hiking trail in Southern New Jersey, is also accessible. Trails are generally flat with soft, sandy surfaces. It's crucial to have a map and be prepared for navigation in a large, wilderness-like area.

Things to See & Do

From Godfrey Bridge Campground, visitors can engage in a variety of outdoor activities:

• Paddling: Canoeing and kayaking on the Mullica River are popular activities, with Godfrey Bridge serving as a potential launch or take-out point.
• Hiking: Explore numerous sand roads and marked trails, including sections of the Batona Trail.
• Nature Study: Observe the unique flora and fauna of the Pine Barrens.
• Stargazing: The remote location offers darker skies ideal for stargazing.
• Fishing: Permitted in the Mullica River in accordance with NJ state fishing regulations.
• Visiting Batsto Village: A short drive away, this historic village offers a glimpse into the area's industrial past with a visitor center, museum, and preserved buildings.

Trip Ideas

Consider these trip ideas when staying at Godfrey Bridge:

• Paddling Adventure: Spend a day kayaking or canoeing a section of the Mullica or Batsto River.
• Batona Trail Section Hike: Park at a trailhead and hike a portion of the historic Batona Trail.
• Historic Exploration: Combine your camping trip with a visit to Batsto Village and the Atsion Mansion.
• Pine Barrens Immersion: Dedicate your trip to exploring the various sand roads by foot or bike, focusing on nature photography and wildlife observation.

Tips and Tricks

Make the most of your visit to Godfrey Bridge with these tips:

• Reservations Required: All camping in Wharton State Forest, including Godfrey Bridge, must be reserved in advance through the NJ State Parks reservation system.
• Primitive Site: Understand that "primitive" means no running water, no flush toilets (pit toilets available), and no showers. Bring everything you need.
• Water: Bring your own potable water or be prepared to treat water from the pump if available and functioning (check status beforehand).
• Insect Repellent: Essential, especially during warmer months, due to ticks, chiggers, and mosquitoes.
• Navigation: Forest roads can be confusing. A good map of Wharton State Forest is highly recommended. GPS may not be reliable on all sand roads.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
• Firewood: Obtain firewood locally to prevent the spread of invasive species. Check current fire restrictions.
• Cell Service: Can be spotty or non-existent in some parts of the forest.

Admission & Guidelines

We do not keep up with the pricing of locations like this. The best thing for you to do is review the prices on the NJ Camping website: https://www.njportal.com/dep/njoutdoors

Hours / Season of Operation

Godfrey Bridge Campground is typically open seasonally, often from April 1st through October 31st, but this can vary. Always check the official NJ State Parks reservation website for exact operating dates.

Facilities

Godfrey Bridge is a primitive campground with limited amenities:

• Campsites (number varies, typically around 20-30 sites)
• Pit Toilets (Vault toilets)
• Hand Pump for Water (Water may be seasonal or require treatment; verify availability and potability before relying on it. It is often recommended to bring your own water.)
• Picnic Tables at each site
• Fire Rings/Grills at each site
• Trash and recycling receptacles (availability may vary; "carry-in, carry-out" is often encouraged).
• No showers, flush toilets, or electricity.

Parking

Parking is generally available at each individual campsite, typically allowing for one or two vehicles depending on the site size.

• Batsto Village: Historic ironmaking and glassmaking village with a museum, visitor center, and interpretive programs.
• Atsion Recreation Area: Features a lake for swimming (seasonal), modern campground, and nature center.
• Apple Pie Hill: Fire tower offering panoramic views of the Pinelands (check accessibility).
• Other Wharton State Forest Campgrounds: Hawkins Bridge, Bodine Field, Mullica River.
• Towns: Hammonton (known for blueberries) and Chatsworth are nearby small towns.

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