Tent camping in Palmyra, New Jersey sits within the Delaware River watershed, characterized by flat terrain and coastal plain elevation of less than 100 feet above sea level. Temperatures range from winter lows around 25°F to summer highs averaging 85-90°F with high humidity. Most tent camping areas close from November through March due to freezing conditions and limited maintenance during winter months.
What to do
Water activities: Fishing and paddling can be enjoyed at Round Valley State Park Campground, located about an hour from Palmyra. The park features a large reservoir with excellent fishing. One camper noted, "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean... we filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water."
Trail exploration: Pine Barrens hiking opportunities abound at Batona — Wharton State Forest, where campers can access miles of sandy trails. "It is so easy to get lost in these woods and I LOVE IT! I grew up near the pine barrens and would camp here many times with friends. If you want off the beaten path and not close to anyone... this is IT!" notes a regular visitor.
Historical sites: Revolutionary War history surrounds many camping areas. The Pennsylvania side of Washington Crossing Historic Park features "historic buildings, museums and picnic spots" while camping is available on the New Jersey side. Sites provide access to "miles of wooded trails lead you through rolling hills and historic landscapes, perfect for hiking and birdwatching."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest offers walk-in tent camping that creates a more peaceful experience. A camper reports, "The boyfriend and I stayed for a weekend at one of the primitive tent sites. Our site was private and secluded. We had a great time."
Waterfront camping: Several tent sites provide direct water access. At Tinicum Island, accessible only by boat, campers find primitive camping in a natural setting. A visitor simply states, "A great place to stay if you have a watercraft."
Group camping facilities: For organized groups, Fort Washington State Park Campground provides designated areas. A camper explains, "Rustic group camping nestled in nearly 500 acres of lush forest that is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike." Another notes that "There's at least two fire pits per campground. There's only group camping."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most tent sites require advance booking during peak season (April-October). Sites at popular locations fill quickly, especially on summer weekends.
Primitive facilities: Many camping areas have minimal amenities. At Mullica River — Wharton State Forest, "There is a pump for potable water and pit toilet," though one camper warns these are "outhouses (hold your breath)."
Access challenges: Some of the best camping requires effort to reach. Round Valley sites involve "a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort!" Sites at Mullica River require either hiking or kayaking in, with one camper sharing: "we stayed at the Mullica River camp ground it is a hike or boat in only camp ground."
Insect concerns: Ticks are prevalent in wooded camping areas. A camper at Goshen Pond advises, "Great sites, great trails, lots of hiking and off road trails for dirt bike/atv/ trucks. Pretty good boating/fishing. Just gotta check often for chiggers and ticks."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For families with young children, look for drive-in or short walk-in sites rather than backcountry locations. Batona Campground provides relatively easy access: "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle."
Plan water activities: Lakes and rivers provide natural entertainment for children. Atsion Lake near Goshen Pond is "a great place for kayaking and swimming" and just "a 5 minute drive" from the campground.
Pack sufficient water: Many primitive sites have limited water sources. At Ridley Creek State Park, campers appreciate the open field camping but note preparation is key: "I go camping here almost every year and they a nice open field with two sites and two fire pits."
Consider group sites: For larger family gatherings, group camping areas often provide more space and facilities. Evansburg State Park offers organized group camping in a natural setting, with one visitor sharing, "Plenty of hiking trails. Only downside is having to haul gear by foot to the campsite."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: True RV camping near Palmyra is restricted mainly to private campgrounds, as most state park sites are tent-only or primitive. When RV camping is available, expect basic facilities without full hookups.
Road access concerns: Forest roads leading to campgrounds can be challenging for larger rigs. At Batona Campground, a camper notes "The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit."
Consider group camping areas: For RVers traveling with multiple vehicles, group sites at Fort Washington provide more space, with "Potable water and non-flush restrooms available year-round" according to one reviewer.
