Glamping accommodations near Haddon Heights, New Jersey range from basic tent sites to upscale RV setups across the region's varied terrain. The area sits within the New Jersey Pinelands, characterized by sandy soil and distinctive pine forests that create a unique camping environment. Water is a significant feature of many campgrounds in the region, with several offering access to ponds, lakes, and the peaceful Wading River which maintains a year-round temperature of approximately 56°F.
What to Do
River activities at Wading Pines: The Wading River runs alongside Wading Pines Camping Resort, offering tubing opportunities from late spring through early fall. "You can tube down the river from one end of camp to the other," notes one visitor. Another camper recommends, "Have someone drop you off at Hawkins Bridge and float down to the campground. A little over 2 hour ride."
Off-season camping for solitude: Visit in spring or fall for fewer crowds at most campgrounds. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, "In February, about 1/4 of the sites were occupied. It was very quiet. The sites are large and well spaced." While slightly further from Haddon Heights, the park offers a more peaceful experience during shoulder seasons.
Hiking through pine forests: The sandy trails throughout Wharton State Forest offer relatively flat terrain for hikers of all abilities. A visitor to Brendan Byrne State Forest mentioned, "There are probably hundreds of miles of trails through the woods and bogs to explore. Could spend a whole vacation just with these trails and never leave this state park."
What Campers Like
Shaded, private sites: Many campers appreciate the natural screening between campsites at French Creek State Park Campground. "As long as you don't stay right across from the bath houses you will find ample shade at your site. There are so many trees and brush in between most sites you can't even really see your neighbors," notes one regular visitor.
Cleanliness of facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms are consistently mentioned as a plus. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, "The restrooms were immaculate compared to most campgrounds." Similarly, a Lums Pond camper noted, "Great bath houses, always super clean."
Seasonal water activities: Most campgrounds with water features operate swimming areas from Memorial Day through Labor Day. One family at Parvin State Park explained, "We spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run. It's a beautiful location and it was still a fun way to spend the day with the kids away from the site."
What You Should Know
Sand and soil conditions: The Pine Barrens region has sandy soil that affects camping comfort. A visitor to Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest mentioned, "I spent my camp setup time also picking out the worst offenders (bottle caps, broken glass, zip ties, broken off plastic bits of kids toys etc.)." Bring a small broom or brush for tent sites.
Seasonal differences: Summer weekends draw crowds while weekdays remain quieter at most campgrounds. "We went during the week, there were 4 sites taken adjacent to me, the rest of the campsite barely had anyone," reported an Atsion camper.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have mineral-rich water. A Parvin State Park camper 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."
Ticks and insects: Prepare for ticks in warmer months. "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!" advised a camper at Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Tips for Camping with Families
Child-friendly amenities: Campgrounds like Jellystone Park South Jersey offer structured activities for younger campers. "The pool and surrounding amenities are nice and clean including lake, snack bar, and ice cream," reports a recent visitor. Many campgrounds have playgrounds accessible from camping loops.
Site selection for family comfort: Choose sites close to bathrooms but not directly across from them. One French Creek visitor advised, "Loop A [has] very spacious, less rocky sites, however, there was little shrubbery between each site, making them less private than the sites in Loop C."
Prepare for weather changes: Spring and fall visits can include significant temperature swings. A Parvin State Park cabin camper noted, "The cabins are more rustic than most, which I enjoyed. While there was a stove the heating, which was necessary in November, was accomplished via a stove."
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: Some older campgrounds have unusual hookup configurations. At Old Cedar Campground, "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."
Accessibility considerations: Many campgrounds in the Pine Barrens have narrow access roads. One camper at Old Cedar reported, "Nice campground. Not close off the highway, but wooden sites. Seems as though people spend their summers there. Pool was beautiful and looked new."
Seasonal closures: Check opening dates when planning spring trips. A visitor to Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA shared, "This does close for winter and reopens in April but call park for exact closure dates because they do change." Many water features like pools and splash pads typically operate only between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
