Near Blackwood, New Jersey, camping opportunities spread across sandy terrain with natural drainage systems that can make for firm camping surfaces except after heavy rain. The region sits within the Pine Barrens ecosystem, characterized by pitch pine forests, cedar swamps, and acidic sandy soil. Campgrounds in the area typically operate from April through October, though several offer year-round accommodations within 30 minutes of Philadelphia.
What to do
Swimming and water recreation: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA features both a pool and lake for water activities. "They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget. The place is so clean including the bathrooms," notes Nicole S., who appreciated the multiple water options.
Hiking and nature trails: The 122,000-acre Wharton State Forest contains multiple trail systems accessible from camping areas. At Wharton State Forest Goshen Pond Campground, campers find convenient trail access. "Great sites, great trails, lots of hiking and off road trails for dirt bike/atv/trucks. Pretty good boating/fishing," reports Eldad K.
Urban exploration: Campers use sites near Blackwood as bases for Philadelphia day trips. One camper at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA shared, "We stayed here for 3 nights while visiting family In Philadelphia. It is a 20 minute ride into Philly and Uber was quick and responsive."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campers prioritize lakefront access. At Hospitality Creek Campground, Matt S. described his experience: "Our lakefront site(#57) was superb! It was between a small, paved boat ramp and a row of arborvitae trees on the other side separating us from the neighboring site. The entire site was level and covered in mulch."
Farm views: Old Cedar Campground offers unique pastoral scenery not common at other area campgrounds. Matt S. noted, "The most unique aspect we found was the cow pasture. It was a lot of fun watching the cows eating and interacting. I intentionally reserved the site we had to be close."
Native plant diversity: Less obvious natural features appeal to some visitors. A camper at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA observed, "If you look around the campground edges or follow the walking trail into the woods, you will find wonderful native plants like blueberry, viburnum, clethra, and meadow beauty."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds close during winter months. At Old Cedar Campground, seasonal operations run from April 21 to October 9, while other facilities maintain limited winter availability.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have mineral-rich water. A camper at Parvin State Park Campground reported, "The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing. Most of the showers were out of order. The toilets were clean but had the orange staining from the iron in the water."
Bug preparation: The Pine Barrens ecosystem harbors ticks and chiggers. A camper at Wharton State Forest Goshen Pond Campground advised, "Great sites, great trails, lots of hiking and off road trails for dirt bike/atv/ trucks. Pretty good boating/fishing. Just gotta check often for chiggers and ticks."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds specifically cater to families with recreational facilities. At Four Seasons Family Campground, Arnold M. found "Very nice campground with plenty of things to do for the kids. Beautiful pool, very nice playground and arcade. The fishing was good everytime we've went."
Site selection for privacy: Many campgrounds have varying site layouts affecting privacy. A camper at Parvin State Park observed, "Some sites are right next to hiking trails. If you want privacy, don't choose them."
Activity scheduling: Scheduled programming enhances family camping experiences. A visitor to Hospitality Creek Campground appreciated the organized events: "We rode our bikes around, enjoyed time on the lake in a rented paddleboat, and had a blast at the 70s-themed live concert at the pavilion on Saturday night."
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: RV site dimensions vary significantly between campgrounds. At Lake Kandle, one camper advised, "Make sure to get an end campsite or your table will be by the sanitary dump. Large sights kids had fun."
Road conditions: Access roads present challenges for larger rigs. A camper at Parvin State Park noted, "Very narrow roads to sites, so not big rig friendly there but most sites are quite large. No gravel or pads on sites, just bare ground. No hook ups but there are potable water faucets and a dump station. My rig is 31 ft class C and it was fine for me but a larger rig may have a tough time maneuvering the narrow roads."
Hookup locations: Some campgrounds have unusual utility arrangements. At Old Cedar Campground, Matt S. discovered, "The water hookups are shared every other site. I was lucky my 75' hose barely reached the distance needed. Be sure to bring extra hoses."
