Camping areas within 30 miles of Lawrence Township span the sandy coastal regions of southern New Jersey and northern Delaware. The region maintains mild temperatures through much of spring and fall, with summer humidity levels reaching 70-85%. Many campsites in the area feature dense pine forests that provide natural cooling, contrasting with the open beach areas that draw summer visitors.
What to do
Hiking on coastal trails: Cape Henlopen State Park Campground offers over 20 miles of trails through pine trees with views of sand dunes. "There are miles upon miles of walking and biking trails. There are nice play facilities for kids, loads of water and beach access," notes a camper. The park also features historic military installations from WWII.
Fishing in freshwater ponds: Parvin State Park Campground provides fishing access at multiple locations. "Good fishing and nice trails. Nice campsites, some big enough for trailers," reports William W. However, be aware that some visitors have noted water quality issues: "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!"
Water activities for all ages: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas with various options. At Sun Outdoors Cape May, "A nice lake with a giant inflatable slide, floating trampoline, kayak and paddle board rentals. A decent pool that tends to get a bit crowded, but does the trick." The campground is a short 5-minute drive from Cape May beaches and attractions.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Belleplain State Forest earns praise for its secluded camping areas. "Our site was HUGE!!!! It was also super private with trees and a lot of privacy from the road and our neighbors," writes one reviewer. Another visitor notes the campground is "easy to get to, but it's just remote enough that you'll truly feel like you're getting the outdoor experience."
Clean modern facilities: Lums Pond State Park Campground offers well-maintained amenities. "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," shares one camper. Another mentions, "Great bath houses, always super clean."
Varied accommodation options: Ocean View Resort Campground provides multiple glamping near Lawrence, New Jersey options. "We stayed in the rental campers. They are new-ish Shasta campers, queen bed, 1 slide, rear bunks, 2 entrances. Very clean," notes Nicholas V. Many campgrounds in the region offer upgraded glamping accommodations beyond traditional tent sites.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Lums Pond, one reviewer explains, "Book early because it fills up fast!" Another notes, "I understand why it is so difficult to get a reservation at Lums Pond."
Water quality varies: Pay attention to water reports at some campgrounds. A reviewer at Old Cedar Campground noted, "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."
Site selection matters: Not all sites offer the same experience. "Sites are a little close together. I'd recommend renting 2 sites if there are more then 2 in you party," advises an Ella P. about Cape Henlopen. At Ocean View, another camper shares, "We had a large pull through lot with our 36 foot fifth wheel. Friends had a tiny lot with their shorter camper. They had no privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Focus on water amenities: For family glamping near Lawrence, New Jersey, choose campgrounds with multiple water features. "This place had a lot to do with kids! Lake, pool, ice cream, arcade, mini golf, mining station, activities," reports a camper at Sun Retreats Seashore Campsites. Similarly, a visitor at Ocean View Resort states, "Ocean View Resort was an excellent resort for our family with two toddlers. Kids loved the Splash Park, Arcade, Tram Car, playgrounds and Lake."
Seek out organized activities: Campgrounds with scheduled events keep children engaged. At Killens Pond, "They had a few ranger-led events that night that I was able to partake in (a hay ride for a small fee, and a night hike that was free)." The variety of programming helps fill days without additional planning.
Bring insect protection: Several campgrounds report significant bug activity. "Bring bug spray!!" advises Trisha P. at Parvin State Park. The region's combination of water features and wooded areas creates ideal conditions for mosquitoes, especially in summer months.
Tips from RVers
Hookup location challenges: Check site diagrams before booking. A reviewer at Lums Pond observed, "Some sites are very close together or are basically surrounded by other sites (Loop C and Loop E)." At Killens Pond, a camper mentioned, "The fire ring was a decent size but the grate/grill is very low to the fire and it was made difficult to cook on."
Dump station limitations: Plan accordingly for end-of-stay sanitation needs. Cape Henlopen visitors report, "The worst was the dump station. It is just a little hole on the side of the road and the ONLY dump station for the 3 campgrounds! It was very unlevel and not easy to fully dump our tanks."
Site leveling requirements: Bring proper equipment for uneven terrain. "Sites are large but all were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer," reports an Ellen B. about Lums Pond, while at Belleplain another camper notes, "The site was level and easy in and out. Large site off the main road to other sites."
