Camp Acagisca

For those in New Jersey looking to organize a memorable group outdoor experience, Camp Acagisca in Mays Landing stands out as a prime destination. This former Girl Scout camp, now managed by the Atlantic County Division of Parks and Recreation, offers a unique opportunity for groups to connect with nature, engage in adventurous activities, and foster camaraderie. Nestled along the tranquil Great Egg Harbor River, Camp Acagisca provides a serene and picturesque backdrop for scouting trips, youth group outings, and other organized gatherings seeking an immersive outdoor adventure right here in the Garden State. Its focus on group camping ensures a tailored experience designed to accommodate larger parties, making it a reliable choice for planners seeking a dedicated and well-equipped facility.

Camp Acagisca is steeped in a history of outdoor education and recreation, having served as a beloved Girl Scout camp for many years. This legacy is reflected in its established infrastructure, which is well-suited for various group activities. The transition to being managed by Atlantic County has further solidified its role as a valuable public resource, offering maintained facilities and access to the region's natural beauty. It's a place where the rustle of the trees and the gentle flow of the river encourage disconnection from digital distractions and a deeper engagement with the natural world. For New Jersey residents, particularly those involved in leading or organizing group activities, Camp Acagisca represents an accessible and enriching outdoor classroom and recreational area.

Camp Acagisca is conveniently located at 6755 Weymouth Road, Mays Landing, NJ 08330, USA. This address places it squarely within Atlantic County, in the southern region of New Jersey. Its proximity to the Great Egg Harbor River is a significant advantage, providing direct access to water-based activities that are a highlight of the camp.

The campground is situated off Route 559 (Weymouth Road), making it relatively easy to reach by vehicle from various points across New Jersey. While it offers a sense of being "away from it all," it's not so remote that travel becomes a burden. The roads leading to Camp Acagisca are generally well-maintained, allowing for straightforward arrival for buses, vans, and personal vehicles transporting group members and their gear. Visitors should note that, as a group campground, it typically requires advance reservations and coordination with the Atlantic County Parks office. Specific access instructions, such as gate codes or check-in procedures, should be confirmed prior to arrival to ensure a smooth entry. For those looking to launch watercraft, permits are readily available at the Lake Lenape office, ensuring easy access to the river. This accessibility, combined with its dedicated group facilities, makes Camp Acagisca a practical and attractive option for New Jersey organizations.

• Group Camping Sites: Camp Acagisca is primarily designed for group camping. It offers two dedicated group sites, each capable of accommodating up to 20 people. These sites are ideal for larger organized groups such as scout troops, school groups, or youth organizations.

• River Access for Watercraft: The campground boasts direct access to the Great Egg Harbor River, making it an excellent launching point for canoeing and kayaking. This feature is a significant draw for groups interested in paddling adventures.

• Boat Launch/Parking Permits: To utilize the river access for car-top watercraft, visitors can obtain launch and parking permits from the Lake Lenape office. As noted by a local user, this permit is quite affordable at only $5 per year.

• Pavilion: A large pavilion with numerous picnic tables is available, providing a communal space for groups to gather, eat, and conduct activities, regardless of weather conditions.

• Restroom Facilities: The campground includes flush restrooms, with at least one flush bathroom located at Site #1, offering convenience for campers.

• Water Access: Water is available via hoses or spigots at the campsites, ensuring groups have access to potable water for their needs.

• Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each group campsite is equipped with fire rings for campfires and designated picnic tables, facilitating outdoor cooking and dining.

• Lodge Rental: The lodge at Camp Acagisca, refurbished in 2009, can be reserved with or without a group campsite. It's primarily used for meetings and can accommodate up to 50 people. It includes a microwave and bathrooms, though it does not have air conditioning.

• Challenge Course: The campground features a rope challenge course. Use of this facility may require advance arrangement, offering a unique team-building opportunity for groups.

• Camping Season: The camping season typically runs from April 1st to October 31st. It's always advisable to check the Atlantic County Parks website or call the office for the most current dates and reservation information.

• Great Egg Harbor River Frontage: The most prominent feature of Camp Acagisca is its direct border with the Great Egg Harbor River. This provides unparalleled opportunities for paddling sports and enjoying the river's serene environment.

• Dedicated Group Facilities: Unlike many campgrounds that cater to individual families, Camp Acagisca's focus on group camping means its facilities and layout are specifically designed to accommodate larger parties, fostering a communal and organized experience.

• Former Girl Scout Camp: The camp's history as a Girl Scout facility imbues it with a sense of tradition and a design well-suited for youth programs. While now under county management, the spirit of outdoor education and group development remains.

• Proximity to Pine Barrens: Situated on the edge of the globally rare New Jersey Pinelands, the camp offers a unique ecological setting. Visitors can experience the distinctive flora and fauna of this significant natural area.

• Wildlife Viewing: The natural surroundings provide opportunities for wildlife observation, including various bird species and local forest animals, adding an educational element to any stay.

• Tranquil Environment: Despite its accessibility, the camp offers a peaceful and natural setting, allowing groups to truly immerse themselves in the outdoors away from urban noise.

• Accessibility for Car-Top Watercraft: The ease of launching canoes and kayaks directly from the camp, with affordable annual permits, is a major draw for paddling enthusiasts and groups planning water excursions.

• Team Building Opportunities: With the available challenge course and the inherent nature of group camping, the facility lends itself well to team-building activities, leadership development, and fostering group cohesion.

Address: 6755 Weymouth Rd, Mays Landing, NJ 08330, USA

Phone for reservations/information: (609) 625-8219 (Atlantic County Parks Reservation Office)

It is highly recommended to contact the Atlantic County Parks Reservation Office for all booking inquiries, current season dates, and specific rules and regulations for group camping at Camp Acagisca.

For New Jersey residents, particularly those involved in organizing youth groups, scout troops, or other large gatherings focused on outdoor education and recreation, Camp Acagisca in Mays Landing is an ideal choice. Its dedicated group camping facilities remove the logistical challenges often associated with accommodating larger numbers, providing a structured yet natural environment for collective experiences. The primary suitability for locals lies in its convenient South Jersey location, offering an accessible escape that doesn't require extensive travel, making weekend trips and multi-day programs highly feasible.

The unique highlight of Camp Acagisca is its direct access to the Great Egg Harbor River. This feature transforms a typical camping trip into an exciting aquatic adventure, allowing groups to easily launch canoes and kayaks to explore the scenic waterways of the Pinelands. For scout leaders and educators, this provides an unparalleled opportunity to teach valuable outdoor skills, promote environmental stewardship, and encourage physical activity in a safe and engaging setting. The availability of permits at the nearby Lake Lenape office simplifies the process, making it a hassle-free experience.

Furthermore, the on-site amenities, including the large pavilion and accessible restrooms, ensure comfort and convenience for groups of all ages and abilities. The option to rent the lodge provides a versatile space for meetings, workshops, or inclement weather contingencies, enhancing the overall functionality of the camp. Whether the goal is team building on the challenge course, a peaceful paddling excursion, or simply a chance for a group to bond around a campfire, Camp Acagisca delivers. It's a testament to Atlantic County's commitment to providing quality outdoor spaces, empowering New Jersey's local communities to create enriching and memorable outdoor adventures right in their backyard.

Camp Acagisca

6755 Weymouth Rd, Mays Landing, NJ 08330, USA