For tubing, camping and hiking near Philadelphia, you can’t do much better than the Pine Barrens. Wharton State Forest, encompassing more than 300 square miles of pine forest, is the “largest single tract of land within the New Jersey State Park System,” according to the state Department of Environmental Protection. Try Atsion Family Campground for drive-in camping ($20 a night for New Jersey residents, $25 if you’re out of state), or Mullica River Campground for overnight hikes ($3–$5 a night). Or check out the page for pet-friendly campsites. Remember, there’s no drinking in the state park system, so leave the beer at home.
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