Camping sites near Carneys Point, New Jersey occupy relatively flat terrain within the Delaware River watershed, where the average summer temperature reaches 85°F. The camping season typically runs longer than many northern regions, with some campgrounds remaining open from February through December. Sites in this area often feature sandy or gravel soil, which affects drainage during the frequent summer thunderstorms.
What to do
Kayaking and water activities: Parvin State Park Campground offers boating access on its lake with rentals available during summer months. "There is a ton of algae in this lake. We rented a canoe with the hopes of having more fishing success but the middle of the lake was just as bad!" notes one camper, highlighting realistic expectations for water quality.
Hiking accessible trails: Ridley Creek State Park features well-maintained paths suitable for various skill levels. "Easy hike. We found a lot of really unique sites around the park. Will keep going back," shares a visitor. The park's trails connect to creek swimming spots and picnic areas with grills.
Frisbee golf course: French Creek State Park Campground maintains a wooded disc golf course that adds challenge to the game. "There is also a frisbee golf course in the woods to make it even more interesting and competitive. The trees definitely make it harder!" The course is open year-round and requires no additional fees beyond park admission.
What campers like
Spacious full hookup sites: Lums Pond State Park Campground receives praise for its renovated camping areas. "We paid $46 per night plus fees for a FHU 50 Amp Back-in site(#56). This place is a gem, even among nice state parks," one reviewer mentions. Sites feature paved pads that remain level even after heavy rainfall.
Year-round accessibility: Some campgrounds in the region maintain extended seasons beyond the typical summer months. "Finished the season at this state park in MD with full hook up (20, 30, and 50 amp, water and sewer) and the water was still on in November. Bathhouses were open with hot water," reports a visitor to Elk Neck State Park Campground.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate natural separation at Old Cedar Campground. "Nice for a quiet weekend," notes one camper. Another mentions, "Nice, woodsy and quiet staff. I'm here all season." The natural buffers between sites provide a more secluded camping experience compared to more open facilities.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially for summer weekends. "We do Lums Pond at least twice a year if we can get reservations. Book early because it fills up fast!" warns one regular visitor. For holiday weekends, booking 6+ months in advance is often necessary.
Bathroom conditions vary: Facility maintenance differs significantly between campgrounds. At Parvin State Park, "Bathrooms were clean but most of the faucets on the sinks were broken. The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing." Similar issues occur at other public campgrounds in the region.
Water quality considerations: Several lakes in the area experience seasonal algae. "There's a pool that is open Memorial Day-Labor Day. They also have a catch and release pond," notes a camper at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, suggesting that swimming pools might be preferable to natural bodies of water during mid-summer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds feature updated play equipment. The Philadelphia/West Chester KOA receives positive mentions: "The camp playground was brand new when we arrived and they had just broken ground (September 2020). There are two different playground in the same area to accommodate kids of all ages."
Educational opportunities: Combine camping with historical sites. "Close to Longwood Gardens; Wilmington, Delaware; and a handful of local museums and gardens. Not too far from Philadelphia," notes a visitor to Philadelphia/West Chester KOA, highlighting day trip possibilities from Carneys Point area campgrounds.
Activity scheduling: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park - Elmer organizes family programming. "The campground is maintained and there are activities for the kids always brewing. We stayed fathers day weekend and they had a breakfast, games and crafts geared towards it," shares one family. Most organized activities run between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: Some campgrounds have tight access roads but spacious sites. "Heads up, big rig owners! Tight squeeze into Site 25," warns a motorhome owner about Philadelphia/West Chester KOA. "Narrow roads to sites, so not big rig friendly there but most sites are quite large. No gravel or pads on sites, just bare ground," notes another RVer about Parvin State Park.
Hookup placement: Water and electric connections might require extra equipment at certain campgrounds. "The water hookups are shared every other site (at least in the Fence Loop). I was lucky my 75' hose barely reached the distance needed. Be sure to bring extra hoses," advises a camper from Old Cedar Campground.
Weather considerations: Sites with concrete pads provide benefits during wet weather. "Site was level and easy in and out. Large site off the main road to other sites," notes an RVer at Parvin State Park. Many campgrounds in the region have clay or sandy soil that can become problematic after heavy rain.
