Parvin State Park Campground offers rustic cabin camping and family-oriented tent sites near Bridgeton, New Jersey. Located in the sandy soils of the outer coastal plain, the park sits at approximately 40-70 feet above sea level with a relatively flat terrain characteristic of southern New Jersey. Winter cabin campers should note that heating requires use of wood stoves rather than electric heat sources, creating a more traditional camping experience even during colder months.
What to do
Water activities at Belleplain State Forest: The forest features Lake Nummy where visitors can swim and rent boats for fishing or paddling. Belleplain State Forest has "a small lake that was great to kayak on" according to Lisa S., who enjoyed staying in one of their yurts. The lake is especially popular during summer weekends.
Hiking through scenic trails: The relatively flat terrain at Lums Pond State Park makes for easy walking routes suitable for all skill levels. As Mark noted, "The trails were well marked, and the day we took a hike, we ended up on the equestrian trail that runs all the way around the pond. It was a long, but easy hike."
Mini golf and games: Hospitality Creek Campground offers activities beyond swimming with "Mini golf was fun for all" according to Craig W., who added there were "numerous activities for the younger kids - making slime." The campground maintains recreation areas that operate throughout the camping season.
What campers like
Concrete patios with furnished sites: At Spacious Skies Country Oaks, campers appreciate the upgraded amenities. Matt S. noted his site "was level, covered in clean gravel, had a concrete patio with picnic table and Adirondack chairs, and a nice fire ring." These pre-furnished sites eliminate the need to bring extra seating.
Fully private wooded sites: Unlike the more open areas at some parks, Old Cedar Campground provides natural separation between campers. One reviewer mentioned that "Most other sites around the campground are better spaced apart and wooded," offering more privacy than the pull-through sections.
Clean facilities with individual shower rooms: Lums Pond State Park Campground stands out for its bathroom design. Adam and Suzanne B. observed, "The bathroom facilities and laundry are clean and modern. There are separate, individual shower rooms." This privacy feature ranks high on camper satisfaction surveys.
What you should know
Water quality varies by location: At Old Cedar Campground, Frank J. noted water issues: "The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing... The toilets were clean but had the orange staining from the iron in the water." Bringing bottled water for drinking and cooking is advisable at some locations.
Seasonal campground closures: Check operating dates before planning a trip. Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through October with limited winter availability. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA has special timing considerations as one camper noted, "This does close for winter and reopens in April but call park for exact closure dates because they do change."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically between campgrounds. Anne H. reported at Belleplain State Forest: "Virtually NO cell service with AT&T, TMobile or Verizon. AT&T was the better of the 3. Our Winegard/Gateway give us no internet which we normally get." Plan accordingly for limited online access.
Tips for camping with families
Look for swimming options: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers family-friendly water activities. Nicholas V. noted, "Water area is great, splash pad is very fun so is the large blow up slide and pool area." The pool typically operates from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Choose sites near playgrounds: When booking at Belleplain State Forest, consider proximity to recreation areas. April E. mentioned, "nice hiking trails and playground. About 20 minutes away from the Cape May zoo," highlighting the nearby attraction options for children.
Pack extra clothes for muddy conditions: Sandy soil in many campgrounds creates unique challenges after rain. Nicole S. described conditions at the former Jellystone Park: "Our site was roomy and had gravel however it poured and hailed for 1 hr and it still made a swamp." Bringing additional footwear and clothing helps manage wet conditions.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup placements before arrival: At Old Cedar Campground, Lawrence P. advised, "Many spots had trees but we couldn't get one as they stated our rig would not fit... I beg to differ.... probably just a way of getting more $$ from us." Requesting specific information about site dimensions and obstacles prevents surprises.
Look for paved sites for easy leveling: Hospitality Creek Campground offers well-maintained sites. Matt S. shared, "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." Level sites reduce setup time and prevent stabilizer issues.
Beware of tight interior roads: Navigation can be challenging at certain pet-friendly camping locations near Bridgeton, New Jersey. As Matt S. described at Hospitality Creek: "We navigated the park to our lakefront site using the map with pre-marked route in our welcome packet. The roads and turns were tight for our 36' motorhome, but manageable." Larger rigs should inquire about access before booking.
