Camping near Deptford, New Jersey typically runs from early spring through late autumn, with average summer temperatures in the mid-80s. The region features low elevation terrain with primarily sandy soil in the Pine Barrens areas south of Deptford. Autumn camping offers mild daytime temperatures in the 60s with cooler nights, making it popular for campers seeking fewer crowds and fall foliage viewing opportunities.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Atsion Family Camp in Wharton State Forest, campers can explore multiple trails through the Pine Barrens. "If you look around the campground edges or follow the walking trail into the woods, you will find wonderful native plants like blueberry, viburnum, clethra, and meadow beauty," notes one visitor who appreciated the botanical diversity.
Water activities: Hospitality Creek Campground offers multiple water recreation options including two pools and a swimming lake. A camper reports, "We rode our bikes around, enjoyed time on the lake in a rented paddleboat, and had a blast at the 70s-themed live concert at the pavilion on Saturday night."
Boat-in camping: For a more secluded experience, Tinicum Island offers free primitive camping accessible only by watercraft. A recent visitor simply stated, "A great place to stay if you have a watercraft," making this an ideal option for campers seeking solitude away from more developed facilities.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight the maintenance of facilities at campgrounds like Parvin State Park. One visitor noted, "Bathrooms were clean but most of the faucets on the sinks were broken. The water has a very high iron content... Staff very nice. Site was level and easy in and out."
Proximity to Philadelphia: Location is frequently mentioned as a key advantage. One camper at Old Cedar Campground shared their experience: "This is a small and basic campground, not a resort. No fancy amenities... If your travels take you in the area of Salem County, NJ, this place is worth checking out. You might like the cows and the basic quiet surroundings as much as we did!"
Seasonal activities: Campgrounds in the Deptford area often offer organized activities. A visitor to Hospitality Creek Campground mentioned, "They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget. The place is so clean including the bathrooms. Everyone we came in contact with staff wise was so friendly."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for weekend stays. During peak summer months (June-August), sites can fill up 2-3 months in advance at popular locations.
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds have limited seasons. For example, Old Cedar Campground operates from "April 21 to October 9," while Hospitality Creek Campground runs from "Apr 20 - Oct 7." Winter camping options are limited in the region.
Variable amenity levels: Four Seasons Family Campground offers different levels of amenities for different camping styles. A visitor noted, "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. They allow golfcarts which is a must for me."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Lake Kandle in Sewell offers multiple swimming options less than 15 minutes from Deptford. A visitor noted, "Lake with swing and fishing and two pools. No pets no alcohol no store but they have a snack stand. Make sure to get an end campsite or your table will be by the sanitary dump. Large sights kids had fun."
Playground access: When selecting a site, check proximity to playgrounds. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, a visitor shared, "There was so much to do there a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow and even more. They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget."
Entertainment beyond swimming: Many campgrounds offer additional recreational amenities. At Hospitality Creek Campground, "This campground has 2 pool and swimming lake. waterfront sites ate my favorite as you can bring your own kayaks. a nice 2 mile trail brings you around the Campground. in season tons of hourly activities for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: For RV camping near Deptford, check site specifications carefully. A visitor to Parvin State Park reported, "Very 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. No hook ups but there are potable water faucets and a dump station."
Hookup availability: Full hookup options vary by campground. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, an RVer noted, "I stayed here as a first trip for my new Class C RV, as a shakedown trip for the rig. The campground is quiet, well-kept, and relatively clean... The hookups were fine, cable was good, wifi was fairly fast but was prone to disconnects."
Off-season considerations: Some RVers prefer visiting in shoulder seasons. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, one camper shared, "I arrived on a Tuesday a few days after they closed the pool, and by Wednesday I had the whole row of tent sites to myself. Maybe that's why it was so peaceful, but every night after my cacophonous conference in Philadelphia, I couldn't wait to turn down Timberlane Road."
