Equestrian camping near Blackwood, New Jersey offers access to the Pine Barrens region characterized by sandy soil, pitch pine forests, and cedar swamps across relatively flat terrain ranging from 80-200 feet in elevation. The area experiences humid summers with temperatures often reaching the upper 80s and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures. Camping options typically remain open year-round with spring and fall providing optimal conditions due to moderate temperatures and reduced insect activity.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: At Lums Pond State Park Campground, approximately 25 miles from Blackwood, campers can enjoy kayaking and non-motorized boating on the 200-acre pond. "Lots of boating (electric motors only) and kayaking on the pond and a decent amount of hiking," notes Ellen B., highlighting the water recreation options within easy reach of campsites.
Fishing for multiple species: The area offers several fishing options with stocked lakes. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," according to reviews at French Creek State Park. Some locations have designated children's fishing areas, with one camper mentioning "Great children's pond for 12 and under" at Hibernia County Park.
Trail exploration: Blackbird State Forest Campground provides extensive hiking opportunities through mature forest. "There are plenty of hiking trails in the state forest, complete with mushrooms, and deer-hunting-stands," reports one camper. The trails range from short loop paths to longer connections through diverse woodland habitats with minimal elevation changes.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Turkey Swamp Park earns high marks for site layout. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest," writes Katheryn N. The park's wooded setting creates natural boundaries between campsites, enhancing the wilderness experience.
Clean facilities: French Creek State Park maintains well-kept restrooms according to multiple reviews. "The bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes," notes Jen R., who appreciated the dedicated dishwashing stations and family-friendly amenities throughout the campground.
Seasonal activities: Hibernia County Park offers varying experiences depending on when you visit. "Great for outdoor activities. Nearby grocery stores and restaurants," notes one camper at nearby Lums Pond, while another adds that the area has "Plenty of room for a few tents at each site. Good trees for hammocking!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. For French Creek State Park Campground, campers recommend booking well in advance. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises one reviewer about nearby facilities, particularly for holiday weekends and summer months.
Wildlife considerations: Ticks and mosquitoes can be prevalent in warmer months. "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!" advises Megan S. from her camping experience in the Pine Barrens region.
Campsite selection matters: At many locations, site topography varies significantly. "Had to do some creative positioning" with leveling at one campground, while another noted "some sites are very rocky and left little option for a larger than normal sized tent." Research individual sites before booking when possible.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "The playground is situated conveniently between the loops of the campground. It had some slides, a bridge, lots of monkey bars, ladders to climb on and the best feature was the zip line," reports a camper about their experience at one nearby park.
Hiking distance considerations: When camping with young children, consider trail lengths and difficulty. "We took her older cousins to the fishing pier, and we didn't even get a nibble, but I think it was too cold for panfish that close to shore," shares one reviewer about their multi-generational camping trip, suggesting shorter trails for younger family members.
Safety amenities: Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area and similar facilities offer varying safety features. "Clean family friendly environment with tons of extra curricular activities for all," notes Heather P., highlighting the importance of selecting locations with appropriate facilities for your family's specific needs.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites vary significantly across campgrounds. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," reports Jen R. about their experience, though others note limitations: "No hookups, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV."
Size restrictions: Larger rigs face limitations at some campgrounds. "There are 200 individual sites in four loops, some with full hookups for RVs, some with electric only but mostly primitive sites," explains one camper about French Creek, while another notes "I wouldn't attempt to park an RV up there" regarding certain loops at smaller campgrounds.
Water access planning: For dry camping locations, prepare accordingly. "If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank," advises Jennifer S. Many campgrounds offer spigots at central locations but not at individual sites, requiring longer hoses or water transport containers.
