The Pine Barrens terrain near Clementon creates specific challenges for campers, with sandy soil affecting site conditions and equipment selection. Most campgrounds in this region close in late October, though some tent sites in Wharton State Forest remain accessible year-round. Cell service varies widely across campsites, with reception strongest at private campgrounds closer to Williamstown and weakest in remote forest locations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Hospitality Creek Campground, visitors can fish directly from waterfront sites. One camper mentioned, "Nice waterfront sites, level, and the hookups worked." The lake allows personal kayaks, and rentals are available for paddleboats to access more fishing spots.
Hiking the Batona Trail: The 53-mile Batona Trail runs through several Pine Barrens campgrounds, offering flat terrain ideal for beginners. A camper at Batona Campground noted, "Each campsite includes a fire pit with a grate (no picnic tables). There are two outhouses and one water source within the campground."
Swimming options: Multiple swimming locations exist within 15 miles of Clementon. Hospitality Creek features two pools and a swimming lake, while Lake Kandle offers "Lake with swing and fishing and two pools." During summer weekends, swimming areas fill quickly, especially at state park beaches.
What campers like
Primitive camping experience: Goshen Pond Campground offers walk-in tent sites near water. A visitor explained, "This campground (Goshen Pond) was mostly empty while we were there in August. Our site was very quiet, but a lot of the sites are close together without any barriers."
Easy water access: Many campers appreciate sites with direct water access. A reviewer at Atsion Family Camp 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)."
Farm proximity: Several campgrounds sit near local farms with seasonal picking. At Four Seasons Family Campground, a visitor noted, "They have many amenities from a lake to swim or fish, to playgrounds, there's a convenient store and even an arcade, and the best part is all the farms around. You can go apple picking and such at all the beautiful orchards that surround the campgrounds."
What you should know
Tick and insect concerns: The Pine Barrens ecosystem requires vigilant tick checking. A camper at Brendan Byrne State Forest warned, "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!" Another visitor at Goshen Pond mentioned, "Great sites, great trails, lots of hiking and off road trails for dirt bike/atv/ trucks. Just gotta check often for chiggers and ticks."
Sandy roads: Many campground access roads consist of loose sand. One visitor observed, "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle." Standard passenger vehicles can navigate these roads when driven slowly.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: State forest campgrounds often have basic facilities. A camper at Batona noted, "Bathrooms are very basic. Fresh water pump is located at entrance to campground," while private campgrounds typically offer full shower facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers extensive children's activities. A visitor mentioned, "This campground was so well maintained. There was so much to do there a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow and even more. They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget."
Swimming safety: Most swimming areas have designated hours with lifeguards. At Hospitality Creek, "The pools are nice and have on-duty lifeguards all day," making it safer for families with young children.
Water depth considerations: Lakes in the Pine Barrens region have tea-colored water with limited visibility. Parvin State Park features graduated swimming areas marked by ropes, with a camper noting, "Great for families with tree covered lake access, plus playground."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many of the best places to camp near Clementon, New Jersey have restrictions for larger rigs. An RVer at Old Cedar Campground shared, "Stayed for 10 days. A bit pricey for what ya get, in my opinion. Many spots had trees but we couldn't get one as they stated our rig would not fit."
Hookup locations: Water hookups at some campgrounds require planning. A camper noted, "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."
Dump station access: Several campgrounds have seasonal dump station availability. At Parvin State Park, a visitor advised, "The dump station is sometimes secured has a combination lock. Ask for the combination during check-in."
