Glamping near Somerdale, New Jersey offers nature experiences within the Atlantic Coastal Plain, with elevations rarely exceeding 200 feet above sea level. The region's sandy pine forest soil creates unique camping conditions, with temperatures ranging from 80°F in summer to 40°F in spring and fall. Most glamping sites are located within 15-25 miles of Somerdale, making them accessible for weekend getaways.
What to do
Kayaking on Wading River: Access the river directly from Wading Pines Camping Resort, where you can tube or kayak through pine forests. "We did have a great time tubing on the river. Have someone drop you off at Hawkins Bridge and float down to the campground. A little over 2 hour ride," notes a visitor.
Hiking forest trails: Explore the extensive network of trails at Brendan Byrne State Forest, where well-maintained paths wind through the pine barrens. As one camper observed, "It's far away from traffic noise. You can't hear any cars or any other noise from civilization at all. It's at least 10 miles away from anything more than a single house in the woods."
Fishing in stocked ponds: Try your luck at multiple fishing spots within a 30-minute drive of Somerdale. French Creek State Park offers two lakes with diverse fish species. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," according to visitors.
Seasonal swimming: Many campgrounds offer swimming from Memorial Day through Labor Day. At Old Cedar Campground, a guest mentioned, "The pool was nice and clean. Wifi worked well enough for us to stream Netflix and YouTube."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Campers consistently praise the secluded feel at French Creek State Park Campground. One visitor noted, "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."
Clean facilities: Many glamping sites maintain excellent bathhouses and amenities. A guest at Lums Pond State Park Campground reported, "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease."
Waterfront options: Sites with water views are highly sought after. At Atsion Family Camp, a camper shared, "LOVE!!!! I always get site #8 and it has an amazing view of the lake. While camping at atsion family campground, you have free access to the recreation center (the beach and some trails)."
Spacious layouts: Larger sites accommodate multiple tents or equipment. At Lums Pond State Park, a visitor remarked, "From the moment I pulled in and observed how large the sites were, I was hooked. Bike trails, Going Ape, kayaking and peaceful."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds near Somerdale operate seasonally. As one reviewer of Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA mentioned, "This does close for winter and reopens in April but call park for exact closure dates because they do change."
Insect precautions: The Pine Barrens are known for ticks and mosquitoes. At Atsion Family Camp, a visitor advised, "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!"
Site conditions: Some campsites may have challenging terrain. One camper at Atsion noted, "There was a bag tied to a tree with someone's trash in it. Speaking of trash, there was a lot of little bits scattered throughout the site, I spent my camp setup time also picking out the worst offenders."
Water quality: Several campgrounds have distinctive water characteristics. At Parvin State Park, a visitor mentioned, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Jellystone Park South Jersey offers extensive activities for children. A parent shared, "Been here 2 years in a row, going again this June (2022). Water area is great, splash pad is very fun so is the large blow up slide and pool area."
Kid-friendly sites: Choose campgrounds with playgrounds and structured activities. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, a visitor observed, "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."
Nature exploration: Many sites offer educational opportunities for children. At Atsion Family Camp, a camper mentioned, "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!"
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds are quieter than others. A visitor at Wading Pines noted, "This place is great for families with children. But if you're looking for a quiet kid-free-get-away, I wouldn't recommend."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Check the placement of utilities before setting up. At Old Cedar Campground, a camper observed, "The most unique aspect we found was the cow pasture. It was a lot of fun watching the cows eating and interacting. 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."
Leveling requirements: Some sites require minimal adjustment. At Lums Pond State Park, an RVer mentioned, "The site was fairly level, side-to-side, so I really only needed to level front to back. That was a bonus."
Road conditions: Access roads vary widely between campgrounds. A visitor at Old Cedar noted, "Not close off the highway, but wooden sites. Very nice welcome. Lots of kids."
Space considerations: Check site dimensions for larger rigs. At French Creek State Park, a camper advised, "If you have a large camper or 5th wheel you may need to double check what sites can accommodate your RV to ensure you have enough room."
