Campgrounds near Elmer offer varying levels of access throughout the year, with many open from April through October when temperatures range from 45-90°F. The region features sandy soil typical of southern New Jersey, resulting in well-draining but sometimes dusty camping conditions. Winter camping options are limited with Wharton State Forest being one of the few locations maintaining year-round primitive sites.
What to do
Paddling on Cranes Lake: Hospitality Creek Campground provides direct lake access with convenient boat rentals. "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," notes Matt S., highlighting the combination of water recreation and evening entertainment.
Trail hiking with maps: Lums Pond State Park Campground offers well-marked trails suitable for various skill levels. "The trails were well marked, and the day we took a hike, we ended up on the equestrian trail that runs all the way around the pond. It was a long, but easy hike," according to Mark, who appreciated the clear signage.
Fishing opportunities: Both large and small lakes provide fishing throughout the Elmer area. "Good fishing and nice trails. Nice campsites, some big enough for trailers. Bathrooms were very clean," reports William W. about Parvin State Park, noting the combination of accessible fishing and clean facilities.
What campers like
Large, level sites: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA receives praise for site quality. "The park is clean, quiet, full of families. The staff are friendly and welcoming. It's easy to navigate to the park from the interstate, and big rigs fit easily," according to Jason E.
Clean bathhouse facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms. Frank J. noted about 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."
Privacy between sites: Old Cedar Campground offers wooded separation between many campsites. "Nice little place. We were here about 10-15 yrs ago and swore we'd never go back. I'm glad we did. They've added a pool and are working on a mini golf area," reports Stacy D., highlighting recent improvements.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Multiple campgrounds have reports of mineral-heavy water. "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. The toilets were clean but had the orange staining from the iron in the water," notes Frank J. about Parvin State Park.
Weekend vs. weekday differences: Hospitality Creek Campground experiences significant activity changes between weekdays and weekends. "Quiet during the week - numerous seasonal campers. Reservation only includes 2 people - it's 8.00 per day for each additional person," shares Craig W.
Sandy soil conditions: Several sites around Elmer have sandy ground that can affect setup. Nicole S. observed at Jellystone Park, "The entire campground is sand and gets very dusty and messy. This was the dirtiest campground we've stayed at, meaning the trailer and truck needed a full bath once we got home."
Tips for camping with families
Kids activities calendar: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park - Elmer schedules regular events for children. "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," reports Nicole S.
Swimming options beyond lakes: Many dog-friendly campgrounds near Elmer feature pools as alternatives to natural swimming. "The pool and splash park were great but you needed to be at least 42 inches to go on the slide or bounce house," notes Nicole S. about height restrictions at Jellystone Park.
Playground proximity: Consider site location relative to play areas. "My wife and I chose site #10 based on its close proximity to the lake and fishing access... Site is great for people with families as there was a playground within 50 feet so it is a bit louder and busier," explains Rosie R. about their Parvin State Park experience.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup length needs: Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest and other primitive sites require preparation. "Couple of negatives and tips: The water hookups are shared every other site. I was lucky my 75' hose barely reached the distance needed. Be sure to bring extra hoses," advises Matt S. about Old Cedar Campground.
Road quality considerations: Forest access roads can challenge larger rigs. "Campsite G014 was awesome! It was a great location, closest site to the water with beautiful views... Roads into the place are single car only, with a good amount of spots to pull off if you find yourself head to head with another vehicle. Pretty bumpy road," shares Brianna P. about Wharton State Forest.
Seasonal site availability: Local RV parks have different operating seasons. Cynthia noted about Parvin State Park, "Woodsy, nice lake and nature trails. 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."
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