Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Burlington, NJ
Brendan Byrne State Forest's designated pet-friendly campsites feature fire rings, picnic tables, and drinking water access for campers traveling with dogs. Wharton State Forest offers two pet-welcoming campgrounds—Atsion Family Camp with full amenities and Batona Campground with more primitive facilities. Turkey Swamp Park provides pet-friendly accommodations including tent sites, RV spots with electric hookups, and cabins where dogs are permitted with proper supervision. All locations enforce standard leash policies, typically requiring dogs to be on leads no longer than 6 feet. Most campgrounds limit pets to 2-3 per site and require proof of current vaccinations at check-in. Timberland Lake Campground allows pets throughout the property except in pool areas and indoor facilities. Despite allowing pets, several campgrounds receive complaints about seasonal campers with off-leash dogs, creating what one visitor described as "golf cart Daytona 500" atmosphere.
Dog owners appreciate the extensive trail systems around these pet-friendly campgrounds, particularly at Fort Washington State Park where all trails welcome leashed dogs. The Wissahickon Creek trails provide excellent water access for dogs needing cooling off during summer months. Hikers with dogs should watch for wildlife in the Pine Barrens region surrounding Wharton State Forest. Local veterinary services can be found within 15-20 minutes of most campgrounds, with emergency clinics in Mount Holly and Cherry Hill. Pet waste stations are inconsistent across properties—Timberland Lake provides them near the lake and common areas, while more primitive sites at Batona require packing out all pet waste. Sand at Timberland Lake campsites presents particular challenges for pet owners, as it tracks easily into tents and RVs even with outdoor rugs. Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours beginning at 10pm, including restrictions on excessive barking.