Equestrian camping near Atco, New Jersey offers access to the distinctive Pine Barrens ecosystem characterized by sandy soil, pitch pine forests, and cedar swamps. The region typically experiences warm, humid summers with temperatures reaching 85-90°F and mild winters averaging 30-40°F. Campers should prepare for the area's frequent tick activity during summer months, particularly when exploring off-trail areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Brendan Byrne State Forest offers good fishing spots throughout the forest. "There are probably hundreds of miles of trails through the woods and bogs to explore. Can't tell you how much I love it. Could spend a whole vacation just with these trails and never leave this state park," notes Benjamin K.
Kayaking and boating: The lake at Turkey Swamp Park provides water recreation options. "Plenty to do over a 2 night stay. Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," shares Dan W. The park offers canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, and row boats in summer months.
Hiking through diverse terrain: Explore the varied landscapes that surround the camping areas. "Lots of good hiking trails, most the sites have pretty decent privacy from the other ones," explains Dan M. about Brendan Byrne State Forest. Trails range from short loops under 1 mile to extended paths connecting different sections of the forest.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Lums Pond State Park Campground receives praise for its generous campsites. "Beautiful park setting with fantastic site— spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved," notes Matt S. The campground underwent recent improvements to accommodate larger camping setups.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms. "The bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained," reports Katheryn N. about Turkey Swamp Park. Most campgrounds in the area provide hot showers, flush toilets, and regularly cleaned facilities.
Natural seclusion: The wooded settings create a sense of privacy even at developed campgrounds. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest," says Katheryn N. about Turkey Swamp Park. Many campsites are situated among pine trees that provide natural sound barriers between neighbors.
What you should know
Tick prevention: The Pine Barrens region has significant tick populations, especially in warmer months. "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!" warns Megan S. from Brendan Byrne State Forest. Regular tick checks are essential after hiking or riding activities.
Fire restrictions: Most campgrounds have specific rules about campfires. "Only weird rule I saw was that fires can only go from 6pm till 7am which was odd but wasn't a deal breaker," mentions Dorian P. about Allaire State Park. Check each location's current fire regulations as they may change seasonally.
Limited shower facilities: Some campgrounds have centralized shower buildings that may be distant from certain sites. "Some engineering genious put the bath houses furthest from the people that need them most. Tent campers….keep your shoes handy, its a hike," notes al K. about Lums Pond State Park Campground. Plan accordingly, especially when camping with horses and needing to clean up after trail rides.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several area campgrounds offer play areas for children. "Our daughter really enjoyed the playground (which was excellent, by my standards)," shares Mark from Lums Pond State Park. "There are age-appropriate playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," adds Lee D.
Nature activities: Blackbird State Forest Campground provides opportunities for nature exploration. "Each site has a fire pit, a grill, and two tables with a decent amount of space for tents," mentions Blind. The forest setting offers wildlife observation and foraging for pinecones, leaves, and other natural items for crafts.
Site selection for families: When booking, consider proximity to facilities. "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite!" reports JAEWOOK P. about Turkey Swamp Park. Sites closer to bathrooms and water sources generally work better for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Some campgrounds have awkward utility placement. "The site offered electric and water but they were on 2 different sides. This made it difficult to set up. Had to park the camper crooked to use both," warns Amanda H. Bring extension cords and extra-long water hoses to accommodate various site configurations.
Site leveling: Most campgrounds in the Pine Barrens region have sandy soil that may require leveling blocks. "The site was fairly level, side-to-side, so I really only needed to level front to back. That was a bonus," notes Mark about Lums Pond State Park Campground. Pack leveling blocks and a good level to ensure proper RV positioning, especially important when camping with horses to maintain proper trailer stability.
Reservation timing: Popular equestrian camping areas book quickly during peak seasons. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park Campground. For weekend equestrian camping near Atco, especially during summer and fall, reservations should be made 3-6 months in advance for the best site selection.
