Camping spots near Clayton, New Jersey offer options for both weekend getaways and extended stays within a 20-mile radius. The region sits in the outer coastal plain with elevations averaging 100-150 feet above sea level, creating a mix of sandy soil and woodland environments. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity levels, making late spring and early fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Old Cedar Campground, campers can fish in well-stocked ponds. As one visitor mentioned, "Nice pool, good fishing, staff is great" and another noted there are "2 fishing areas" available to guests.
Water recreation: Hospitality Creek Campground offers multiple water activities including a swimming lake and pools. A guest shared, "Great waterfront site, level, and the hookups worked. Campground is clean and well-maintained." The lake allows for swimming, paddleboat rentals and fishing.
Historical sites: Within 15 minutes of Parvin State Park Campground, visitors can explore Batsto Village, a preserved iron-making town from the 1800s. One camper noted, "Nice hiking trails around the lake" provide additional recreational options for visitors wanting to explore the natural surroundings.
Family activities: At Four Seasons Family Campground, recreational options include an arcade, playgrounds, and pool. According to a visitor, "Very nice campground with plenty of things to do for the kids. Beautiful pool, very nice playground and arcade. The fishing was good everytime we've went."
What campers like
Waterfront access: At Atsion Family Camp, campers value the lakefront sites. One camper reported, "I always get site #8 and it has an amazing view of the lake. While camping at atsion family campground, you have free access to the recreation center (the beach and some trails)."
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer large sites with natural separation. At Parvin State Park, a visitor noted, "Good size camp sites. Site was level and easy in and out. Large site off the main road to other sites. Nice hiking trails."
Swimming options: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA features a pool that receives positive reviews, with one camper stating, "This campground was so well maintained. There was so much to do there a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow and even more."
Year-round availability: Some campgrounds remain open during winter months when most others close. As a KOA visitor mentioned, "It was cold so we asked to be put close to bathrooms so we could leave camper winterized. They accommodated us nicely."
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most campgrounds near Clayton operate from April through October, with limited winter options. The Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers year-round camping, with a visitor mentioning, "It was cold so we asked to be put close to bathrooms so we could leave camper winterized."
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds experience problems with water quality. At Parvin State Park, a camper warned, "The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing. Most of the showers were out of order."
Noise considerations: Weekend stays tend to be busier and louder than weekday camping. One camper at Jellystone Park South Jersey appreciated the entertainment but noted proximity impacts: "Our site was directly across from the Pavilion which was great for Saturday night's live band."
Additional fees: Many campgrounds charge extra for guests beyond the base reservation. A visitor at Four Seasons explained, "Reservation only includes 2 people - it's 8.00 per day for each additional person."
Tips for camping with families
Themed events: Old Cedar Campground offers regular activities for children. A visitor mentioned, "My grandchildren loved visiting us, pool was clean - they had a few items that they could borrow - fishing was great - playground was adequate. Mini golf was fun for all. There was also activities for the younger kids - making slime."
Water features: Campgrounds with multiple swimming options keep children entertained. According to a camper at Jellystone Park Elmer, "Water area is great, splash pad is very fun so is the large blow up slide and pool area."
Playgrounds and recreation: Four Seasons Family Campground offers multiple play areas. A visitor noted, "Very nice campground with plenty of things to do for the kids. Beautiful pool, very nice playground and arcade."
Height requirements: Some water attractions have restrictions. A visitor to Jellystone Park Elmer cautioned, "The pool and splash park were great but you needed to be at least 42 inches to go on the slide or bounce house."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Hospitality Creek offers well-maintained connections. A camper reported, "Our lakefront site was superb! It was level and covered in mulch. The water, electric, and sewer hookups looked practically brand new."
Site surfaces: Different campgrounds offer varied parking surfaces. A visitor to Jellystone Park South Jersey appreciated that "Our site included a nice concrete pad big enough to park our 45' motorhome+ toad."
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. At Wharton State Forest, a camper warned, "Roads into the place are single car only, with a good amount of spots to pull off if you find your self head to head with another vehicle. Pretty bumpy road."
Winterization concerns: For off-season camping, bathroom proximity becomes important. A Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA visitor noted, "We asked to be put close to bathrooms so we could leave camper winterized. They accommodated us nicely."
