Brendan Byrne State Forest, located in the New Jersey Pine Barrens approximately 20 miles from Willingboro, offers diverse camping experiences beyond its equestrian options. The forest's sandy soil allows for good drainage during rainy periods, though summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity. Campers find the relatively flat terrain accessible for various outdoor activities throughout the 37,000-acre woodland.
What to do
Fishing and water activities: Nearby Turkey Swamp Park offers a lake with multiple boating options. "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," notes Lee D.
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park provides archery facilities for beginners and experienced archers. "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," explains Dan W.
Historical exploration: Visit Allaire State Park to discover restored 19th-century ironworks. "Working village and antique train are available most of the year. There are also lots of festivals throughout the summer months," shares Beau B. The park offers a glimpse into the region's industrial heritage.
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: Campers appreciate the spacious layout at Mountainview Campground. "The property is well kept and campsites are a good distance from each other. Plenty of open field as well as wooded areas," explains Mario M., highlighting a different experience than the loop-style camping at other locations.
Secluded natural settings: The quieter locations provide true nature immersion. "This place was just so calming and quiet, it was really just such a relaxing place to be. There was no irritation from loud, busy nearby roads, no city noise, no people yelling or stomping about," Christina H. comments about Mountainview Campground.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain their amenities well. "Stayed here 2 nights in May, Friday-Sunday. There were a decent amount of people on Friday, but significantly more on Saturday. Park employees and park police drive around through the day," notes Jules T. about Spruce Run Recreation Area.
What you should know
Tick protection essential: Beyond Brendan Byrne, other area campgrounds also report tick concerns. "Spacious campsite, although the closest water spigot wasn't working. Not a big problem as there are plenty of others. Bathrooms were clean. Showers were a little spidery but kind of expected at a campground. Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!" advises Megan S.
Reservation rules vary: Some locations have strict arrival policies. "I reserved two nights, but the first night we were not going to be able to arrive until after 9. After talking to them, they would not allow us to come late, but did refund the first night," explains Kyhlea D. about Mountainview Campground.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience road noise despite natural settings. "You can hear 78, especially at night once the campground settles down," mentions Jules T. about Spruce Run. Check campground maps before booking if quiet is priority.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Multiple campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities. "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! The campground was super clean too. It was perfect!" shares JAEWOOK P. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Winter camping options: For families interested in off-season adventures, check wintertime availability. "We found this campground one night when we were in NJ. It ended up snowing that night. The bathrooms were clean and warm. There is a lot to do in the area," Lisa S. notes about Allaire State Park.
Year-round equestrian access: For horse-owning families near Willingboro, New Jersey, several parks offer trail riding throughout the year. Limited equestrian camping exists, so prepare to trailer horses in for day rides at most locations.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for shade: At Spruce Run Recreation Area, RV campers should consider shade carefully. "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," advises Douglas P.
Water and electric hookups: Plan for varying utility access at horse campgrounds near Willingboro, New Jersey. "There are some RV sites with water & electric which are not on the water, but in the parking lot. I would consider getting one on the water to enjoy the water and one in the parking lot to hook up the RV. It's kind of worth it," suggests Ruette W.
Pull-through sites available: Some campgrounds offer easier access for larger rigs. "We just bought a small tear drop trailer and have begun taking it on weekend excursions. We took it to Mountain View this weekend, with a little trepidation on how we were going to get the trailer backed into the space. Not to worry, they gave us a nice drive through space," Robert J. explains about his experience.
