Seasonal camping near New Jersey at Pine Ridge Campground

2.5 hours from New Jersey

Seasonal Camping from New Jersey

Trade shore crowds for mountain peace. 2.5 hours to something completely different.
2.5 hours
from New Jersey
140 miles
drive distance
2,050 ft Elevation
10-15° cooler
April - October
full season

New Jersey summers mean one thing to most: the shore. But the Garden State's camping enthusiasts know there's more to life than sand and crowds. Pine Ridge Campground, 2.5 hours west in Pennsylvania's mountains, offers an alternative that more NJ families discover each year.

At 2,050 feet elevation in Michaux State Forest, Pine Ridge provides what the shore can't: cool mountain temperatures, genuine forest setting, and a community that develops over the season. No fighting for beach space, no premium shore pricing, no transient crowds - just peaceful mountain camping with neighbors who become friends.

The drive from Jersey to Pine Ridge is scenic and relaxing, crossing through Pennsylvania Dutch Country into the mountains. Many NJ campers say it's their favorite part of the weekend ritual - leaving shore traffic behind and heading toward something different.

Why New Jersey Residents Choose Pine Ridge

The escape you've been looking for

Common Frustrations at Home

  • Shore traffic and crowds
  • Limited mountain camping in NJ
  • Expensive shore rentals
  • Want something different from beaches
  • Looking for seasonal community

The Pine Ridge Solution

  • Trade shore crowds for mountain peace
  • 2.5 hours to your own seasonal site
  • Different experience from Jersey camping
  • Real mountains and forests
  • Welcoming seasonal community

What Makes Pine Ridge Special

More than a campground - a seasonal community

100% seasonal - no strangers, just neighbors
Michaux State Forest at your doorstep
Fiber WiFi throughout the campground
Weekly potlucks and holiday celebrations

What New Jersey Campers Say

After 20 years of shore summers, we tried Pine Ridge on a whim. Now we can't imagine going back. Mountains over beaches, every time.

The Russo Family

Cherry Hill, NJ

The 2.5-hour drive flies by compared to the Parkway. We arrive relaxed instead of frustrated. Pine Ridge changed our summers.

Frank & Donna V.

Marlton, NJ

Questions from New Jersey Residents

How far is Pine Ridge from New Jersey?

Pine Ridge Campground is about 2.5 hours (140 miles) from South Jersey. Take Route 55 to Route 322 to I-83, then Route 30 and Route 34 into the mountains.

Why would Jersey residents camp in PA instead of at the shore?

Many NJ campers seek a different experience: cooler mountain temperatures, forest setting, 100% seasonal community, and value that shore rentals can't match. Pine Ridge offers all of that plus access to unique attractions like Gettysburg.

Is it weird being from Jersey at a PA campground?

Not at all! We have campers from across the mid-Atlantic, including many NJ families. The community is welcoming regardless of where you're from - what matters is the shared love of camping.

What do Jersey campers do at Pine Ridge?

Many embrace the mountain difference: hiking the Appalachian Trail, riding ATVs in Michaux State Forest, visiting Gettysburg and Hershey, and simply enjoying cooler temperatures and forest peace.

Ready for Your Mountain Escape?

Join our 100% seasonal community in Michaux State Forest. Just 2.5 hours from New Jersey, your peaceful mountain retreat awaits.