Best Campgrounds near Blackwood, NJ
The pine forests and lakeside settings near Blackwood, New Jersey provide a range of established campgrounds within easy driving distance of Philadelphia. The region includes facilities like Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, offering full hookups, cabins, and glamping options just 20 minutes from Philadelphia. Wharton State Forest, located within the Pine Barrens about 30 minutes east of Blackwood, features multiple camping areas including Atsion Family Camp and Goshen Pond Campground. Most developed campgrounds in the area accommodate tent camping, RVs, and cabin rentals, with several sites providing water activities at lakes or ponds.
Seasonal operations affect camping availability throughout the region, with many campgrounds like Old Cedar Campground open from April through October. The sandy terrain typical of southern New Jersey creates natural drainage but can become messy after rain. Wharton State Forest camping areas require advance reservations, especially during summer weekends when waterfront sites fill quickly. Road access to some primitive sites can be challenging, with narrow, bumpy roads leading to more remote camping areas. Most established campgrounds provide drinking water and restroom facilities, though amenities vary significantly. A camper noted, "Wharton SF is huge, over 122,000 acres of sandy terrain, towering pine trees, lakes/rivers and off roading trails!"
Campers consistently mention the accessibility to both natural areas and urban attractions as a key benefit of the region's mixed-use campgrounds. Several visitors highlighted the value of staying at campgrounds that serve as convenient bases for exploring Philadelphia while enjoying natural surroundings. The proximity to water features represents another common theme in reviews, with fishing opportunities and lake access available at several locations. Turkey Swamp Park, north of Blackwood, received praise for its forest views and spacious sites. While some campgrounds like Butterfly Camping Resort offer resort-style amenities including swimming pools and extensive recreational facilities, others maintain a more rustic atmosphere. Noise levels vary considerably, with locations closer to highways experiencing more ambient sound compared to more secluded forest sites.
