Camping sites near Glassboro, New Jersey offer a mix of natural landscapes and family-oriented recreation within the unique Pine Barrens ecosystem. The region sits on sandy, acidic soil that supports distinctive plant communities and affects water quality at many campgrounds. Most camping areas are situated at low elevations under 200 feet, creating flat, accessible terrain for camping but sometimes leading to standing water after heavy rain.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: Atsion Family Camp in Wharton State Forest features both a lake for swimming and trails for hiking. A visitor noted, "While camping at atsion family campground, you have free access to the recreation center (the beach and some trails)."
Fishing opportunities: Hospitality Creek Campground offers waterfront sites with fishing access. One camper shared, "Real nice experience for my wife and myself. Steep price for guests," but the lakefront views make it worthwhile for many visitors.
Historical exploration: The area around camping sites near Glassboro contains significant historical structures. At Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest, "In the area there are historic buildings and ruins you get to by 'off roading' on all dirt roads. Great places to kayak and Pineland Adventures right down the street has wonderful trips!"
Nature trails: The region offers flat, accessible hiking. A camper at Parvin State Park noted, "Woodsy, nice lake and nature trails," making it suitable for casual walkers and families.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campers prefer lakeside locations. At Parvin State Park Campground, one visitor recommended, "I stayed at Site#8 in a travel trailer. Site was level and easy in and out. Large site off the main road to other sites."
Clean facilities: Travelers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms. A camper at Old Cedar Campground shared their experience: "This is a small and basic campground, not a resort. No fancy amenities. We stayed in Site# 51 in the Fence Loop- a pull-thru with 50-amp, water, and sewer. The hookups seemed to work just fine."
Unique animal viewing: Old Cedar Campground offers an unexpected animal encounter. As one visitor described, "The most unique aspect we found was the cow pasture. It was a lot of fun watching the cows eating and interacting. I intentionally reserved the site we had to be close."
Quiet weekday camping: For those seeking peace, midweek visits are ideal. A camper at Hospitality Creek noted, "Quiet during the week - numerous seasonal campers," allowing for a more relaxed experience away from weekend crowds.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Several campgrounds report iron-rich water. 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. The toilets were clean but had the orange staining from the iron in the water."
Reservation policies: Many campgrounds charge extra for additional guests. A visitor to Hospitality Creek Campground mentioned, "Reservation only includes 2 people - it's $8.00 per day for each additional person," which can significantly increase costs for larger groups.
Cell service variations: Connectivity varies by location. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, a visitor reported, "The wifi was fairly fast but was prone to disconnects," while Parvin State Park campers noted, "Verizon cell service was between 1 and 2 bars."
Site selection tips: Some campgrounds have specific site quirks. At Old Cedar, "The water hookups are shared every other site (at least in the Fence Loop). I was lucky my 75' hose barely reached the distance needed. Be sure to bring extra hoses."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Jellystone Park South Jersey provides multiple water activities. A recent visitor mentioned, "The pool and surrounding amenities are nice and clean including lake, snack bar, and ice cream."
Playground access: Four Seasons Family Campground offers child-friendly amenities. A visitor shared, "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."
Rental options: Many families prefer cabin rentals for convenience. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, one camper reported, "I stayed in a cabin for my MTB race weekend. Great! Pool is a tad small. Restrooms very clean and good looking tent sites."
Seasonal activities: Campgrounds often schedule family events. At Old Cedar, a visitor noted, "Every Saturday they had an organized activity for the kids.... fishing (and yes they caught bass), every Saturday they had an organized activity for the kids…. EVERYONE was extremely friendly."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV campers should check space limitations. At Parvin State Park, a camper advised, "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. My rig is 31 ft class C and it was fine for me but a larger rig may have a tough time maneuvering the narrow roads."
Hookup configurations: Many campgrounds offer varied electric options. At Old Cedar Campground, full hookups include "a pull-thru with 50-amp, water, and sewer," which is ideal for larger rigs with higher power needs.
Seasonal closures: Be aware of operating schedules. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA is open year-round, but a visitor noted about other parks, "This does close for winter and reopens in April but call park for exact closure dates because they do change."
Road conditions: Some access roads present challenges. At Atsion Family Camp, a visitor mentioned, "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."
