Best Campgrounds near Mount Laurel, NJ
State parks and forests surrounding Mount Laurel, New Jersey provide diverse camping experiences within an hour's drive of this suburban community. Wharton State Forest, located approximately 20 miles southeast, offers multiple campgrounds including Atsion Family Camp and Goshen Pond, both highly rated for their spacious sites and water access. The Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, situated west of Mount Laurel near the Delaware River, provides full-hookup RV sites, tent camping, and cabin rentals with amenities like swimming pools and organized activities. Brendan Byrne State Forest to the east features year-round camping with more primitive facilities in a quieter setting. These areas accommodate various camping styles from basic tent sites to fully-equipped RV parks with electrical hookups.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping availability in the region. Most state forest campgrounds operate year-round, though facilities like showers may close during winter months. As one camper noted, "Wharton State Forest is huge, over 122,000 acres of sandy terrain, towering pine trees, lakes/rivers and off-roading trails." The sandy soil common throughout the Pine Barrens can create challenges after rainfall, with several reviewers mentioning muddy conditions. Cell service varies considerably, with stronger signals at private campgrounds and limited connectivity in more remote state forest areas. Reservations become essential during summer weekends, particularly for waterfront sites, which typically book months in advance. Many campgrounds require advance registration through the New Jersey State Park Service or private reservation systems.
Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors to the region. Lakeside sites at Atsion Family Camp are particularly sought after, with one camper recommending sites 4, 8, 10, 12, 20, and 22 for their direct water access. Kayaking opportunities abound, with Goshen Pond campers appreciating the ability to launch directly from their sites. The region's characteristic Pine Barrens ecosystem creates a distinctive camping environment with its sandy soil, pine forests, and tea-colored streams. Family-friendly amenities vary widely, with state forests offering more basic facilities while private campgrounds provide amenities like swimming pools, organized activities, and camp stores. Highway noise can be an issue at some locations, particularly at Cheesequake State Park which is bisected by the Garden State Parkway, though most sites remain relatively peaceful.
