Camping spots near Mount Laurel, New Jersey sit within the distinctive Pine Barrens ecosystem, characterized by sandy soil that can present challenges for vehicles during wet weather. Most campgrounds in the region are situated between 80-100 feet above sea level, resulting in limited elevation changes but allowing for accessible hiking trails. Temperatures typically range from 30°F in winter to upper 80s in summer, with July and August seeing the heaviest campground usage.
What to do
Kayaking from your site: At Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest, waterfront sites provide direct kayak access. "Campsite G014 was awesome! It was a great location, closest site to the water with beautiful views. Super convenient if you're a Kayaker, you can launch right off that spot," notes Brianna P.
Hiking the Batona Trail: Access this 50-mile trail directly from Batona — Wharton State Forest campground. "Best part of this campground is trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible," explains reviewer Meghan G.
Tubing the Wading River: Wading Pines Camping Resort offers tube rentals or bring your own. "We had 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," shares Stacy D.
What campers like
Secluded camping experiences: Brendan Byrne State Forest offers genuine forest solitude. "First off, I will start by saying you have to drive a good amount of distance to get into the campground and that is something I really enjoyed! Made me feel super secluded and disconnected from the outside!" reports Dorian P.
Spacious waterfront sites: The lakefront sites at Atsion Family Camp receive consistent praise. "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)," says Alexa L.
Clean facilities: Hospitality Creek Campground maintains well-kept amenities. "The park was easy to find and located a short distance from the highway. We were met at the entry gate with a personalized folder containing lots of helpful information for our stay. I was impressed at how prepared they were for our arrival," Matt S. explains.
What you should know
Tick awareness essential: Pine Barrens camping requires diligent tick checks. "NOTE: There are LOADS of ticks in this area," warns Rebecca S. at Mullica River campground, while Megan S. advises: "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!"
Site reservation logistics: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA and most area campgrounds offer online reservations. "Like more and more campgrounds, they offered virtual check-in and payment online. This meant that we were handed a welcome packet at the front gate and sent on our way without delays for paperwork or payments," notes Matt S.
Sandy access roads: Many Pine Barrens campgrounds have sand-based roads. "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle," explains a reviewer at Batona Campground, while another adds: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Hospitality Creek Campground provides multiple recreation options. "A lot to do for the kids and fishing for the hubby also close to home would always recommend," says Mya M., while another notes "Family friendly with tons of kid activities/themes. Easy roads for bike riding and beautiful views of the lake."
Swimming options: Old Cedar Campground offers a pool that receives positive reviews. "My grandchildren loved visiting us, pool was clean - they had a few items that they could borrow - fishing was great - playground was adequate. Mini golf was fun for all. There was also activities for the younger kids - making slime," reports Craig W.
Nature exploration: Many campgrounds feature educational trails and wildlife viewing. "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!" explains a camper at Atsion Family Camp.
Tips from RVers
Hookup logistics: At Old Cedar Campground, be prepared for shared utilities. "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," advises Matt S.
Narrow access roads: Large RVs require careful navigation at several campgrounds. "The roads and turns were tight for our 36' motorhome, but manageable," reports an RVer at Hospitality Creek, while another notes about Batona Campground: "The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit."
Site selection for big rigs: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA can accommodate larger RVs. "This is a very nice KOA, just over the Delaware River from Philly. The park is clean, quiet, full of families. It's easy to navigate to the park from the interstate, and big rigs fit easily," shares Jason E.
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