Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area provides equestrian camping facilities within 39 miles of Clementon, New Jersey. Located in Maryland's northernmost county, this 5,656-acre park sits on rolling terrain with elevation ranging from 150 to 450 feet. The area maintains specific camping regulations for horse owners with designated water access points and separate camping areas from standard recreational users.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Brendan Byrne State Forest offers extensive riding trails through the New Jersey Pine Barrens. "There are probably hundreds of miles of trails through the woods and bogs to explore. Can't tell you how much I love it. Could spend a whole vacation just with these trails and never leave this state park," notes Benjamin K.
Fishing access: Turkey Swamp Park maintains stocked fishing areas throughout their wooded property. "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," explains Lee D. The park also sells bait at the ranger office.
Nature exploration: Hibernia County Park features multiple short trails for wildlife viewing. "Walking/hiking trails and the lake were super peaceful," shares Chelsea, who visited the park's Lake Loop camping area. The longest trail extends approximately 2 miles through wooded terrain.
Archery practice: Turkey Swamp Park provides dedicated archery facilities for visitors. "Archery, boating, fishing, and hiking. The list goes on. I've been here a few times, every time I'm here I barely touch my phone," reports Tylen L. The park includes hay bale targets for practice sessions.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Blackbird State Forest Campground offers well-spaced camping areas. "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return!" explains Sarah M. Most sites include multiple picnic tables, fire rings, and designated parking areas.
Clean facilities: Lums Pond State Park Campground maintains modern comfort stations. "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," notes Mark. Individual shower rooms provide additional privacy.
Natural setting: Brendan Byrne State Forest preserves quiet woodland camping environments. "I grew up at this camp ground. Spent every summer here. Some of my favorite things about this place are 1) it's far away from traffic noise. You can't here any cars or any other noise from civilization at all," shares Benjamin K.
Spacious sites: Turkey Swamp Park provides generous camping areas. "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy. A lantern hook, picnic table, and fire ring complete each site," reports Lee D.
What you should know
Water access considerations: At Brendan Byrne State Forest, water sources require planning. "Lots of potable water hydrants around the campground so not far of a walk to fill any water needs you may have," explains Dan M., though visitors should bring containers for transport.
Site regulations: Turkey Swamp Park has specific rules about equipment placement. "Sites in Loops B-E all have pull-thru driveways. As mentioned, all roads and camper pads are dirt," notes Lee D.
Reservation requirements: Lums Pond State Park Campground fills quickly during peak seasons. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. who visits regularly.
Limited amenities: Hibernia County Park maintains primitive facilities only. "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank," warns Jennifer S.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Turkey Swamp Park provides dedicated children's play areas. "There are playgrounds both in the campground and by the office," explains Lee D., noting they are designed for different age ranges.
Kid-friendly fishing: Hibernia County Park maintains a special fishing area for young anglers. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," shares Anna, who visited with children ages 3-12.
Trail options: Brendan Byrne State Forest features accessible hiking paths. "Plenty of good hiking trails, most the sites have pretty decent privacy from the other ones," Dan M. reports, making it suitable for families with varied hiking abilities.
Weekend activities: Hibernia County Park hosts seasonal events. "Hibernia annually hosts the (super fun!) 'Old Fiddlers Picnic' (Folk/Americana/Bluegrass etc. music & arts, beginner to pro!) the second weekend in August," Jennifer S. explains.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Lums Pond State Park Campground offers full-hookup sites with good spacing. "Sites are big and all were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer. There are some equestrian and tent sites as well," reports Ellen B.
Length considerations: Hibernia County Park has limited space for larger rigs. "Most sites are heavily wooded which means plenty of hammock hanging opportunities. The sites are mostly grass, and not very well defined which means the distance between you and your neighbor can vary depending on how you set up camp," Jennifer S. explains, noting only sites #3, #17 and #18 can accommodate larger RVs.
Leveling requirements: Turkey Swamp Park sites may require adjustment. "Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy," notes Lee D., though some preparation for dirt pads may be necessary.
Access challenges: For those seeking horse campgrounds near Clementon, New Jersey, Lums Pond State Park includes dedicated equestrian areas. "There's an off leash dog park, equestrian center and boat ramp," Ellen B. mentions, though specific horse camping areas have separate access points.
