Horse campgrounds near Collingswood, New Jersey offer diverse terrain for riders within an hour's drive. The region sits at elevations between 30-400 feet, with the Pine Barrens featuring sandy soil that's resilient during wet conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for equestrian camping.
What to do
Trail riding at French Creek State Park: Located about an hour from Collingswood, this park features miles of multi-use trails suitable for horses. "There are a ton of picnic tables too so you can take a lunch and just sit by the lake to relax and have a bite to eat. We have also attending an Orienteering event here which was nation wide and really exciting," notes Jen R. from French Creek State Park Campground.
Fishing excursions: Many campgrounds offer excellent fishing opportunities. At Hibernia County Park, "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," says Anna, while the main "lake is about a 3 minute hike down the clearly marked trails." The park offers multiple water bodies for different fishing experiences.
Hiking through varied ecosystems: Blackbird State Forest provides excellent hiking through diverse woodland. "There are plenty of hiking trails in the state forest, complete with mushrooms, and deer-hunting-stands," reports D R., adding that the forest features "dirt covered with woodchips and sometimes evergreen needles -- pretty easy to sleep in a tent."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Turkey Swamp Park earns praise for its layout. "Sites are in the woods and widely spaced apart to give you privacy and the feeling of being out in the Forrest," explains Katheryn N., who appreciates that "sites are not right on top of one another." This creates a more secluded camping experience.
Clean facilities: Lums Pond State Park maintains exceptional standards. "The bathroom facilities and laundry are clean and modern. There are separate, individual shower rooms," notes Adam and Suzanne B., who visited during winter months when the campground was only 25% occupied and "very quiet."
Affordable pricing: Hibernia County Park offers exceptional value, with Anna noting it's a "Super great price at $15/night as well." While amenities are basic, each site includes "a large picnic table and a fire ring with a built in grill" with "plenty of firewood to be found."
What you should know
Tick activity: Ticks can be problematic in New Jersey woodlands. At Turkey Swamp Park, one camper reported "By the 2nd day I had 3 ticks on me. My dog had one and by the end my husband had 2." Pack appropriate tick repellent and perform regular checks.
Bathroom access: Campground layouts can affect convenience. "Some engineering genious put the bath houses furthest from the people that need them most. Tent campers...keep your shoes handy, its a hike," notes Al K. at Turkey Swamp Park, highlighting the importance of checking facility locations when choosing sites.
Reservation challenges: Popular campgrounds fill quickly. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, one camper explains, "I understand why it is so difficult to get a reservation at Lums Pond," adding that the management is "definitely doing something right." Reserve well in advance, especially for summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible playgrounds: Multiple recreation options keep children entertained. "There is a huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake. There are trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake," reports Jen R. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Kid-friendly water activities: Many parks offer safe water recreation for children. At Turkey Swamp Park, "Boat rental rates are acceptable and there are four different styles to choose from," mentions Dan W., noting that his family "really enjoyed our stay."
Wildlife exposure opportunities: Children can observe natural habitats. At Mountainview Campground, Christina H. explains that "shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!" These encounters create memorable learning experiences.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Consider terrain when selecting sites. At Mountainview Campground, Sarah notes, "The landing for the camper was even with gravel and the rest of the site was mostly even. The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp."
Water hookup positioning: Check utility locations before setup. At Lums Pond, one camper warned about sites where "electric and water were on 2 different sides," which "made it difficult to set up" and required parking "the camper crooked to use both."
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects campground conditions. Robert J. explains that Mountainview Campground has "a nice little remote campground in the mountains," but notes that "The drive to our site had some inclines and was relatively rocky and some vehicles would surely struggle."
