The Pine Barrens region around Pennsauken, New Jersey sits at just 36 feet above sea level with sandy, acidic soil that creates a unique camping ecosystem. The area's Atlantic coastal climate brings humid summers with temperatures averaging 85°F and mild winters rarely dropping below 25°F. Most campgrounds in this region feature a mix of pine forest and wetland environments, with tent sites often situated on sandy terrain that drains quickly after rainfall.
What to do
Water activities on multiple lakes: Wharton State Forest offers several bodies of water for recreation at the Atsion Family Campground. One visitor noted, "While camping at Atsion family campground, you have free access to the recreation center (the beach and some trails)." The park provides kayak rentals through Pineland Adventures and multiple launch points for personal watercraft.
Hiking through pine forests: Trail systems throughout the region range from beginner-friendly flat terrain to more challenging routes. A camper at Brendan Byrne State Forest commented, "Lots of good hiking trails, most the sites have pretty decent privacy from the other ones." Most trails are well-marked with interpretive signage about local ecology.
Historical exploration: Learn about Revolutionary War history at Washington Crossing State Park, where interpretive programs run during summer months. At French Creek State Park, visitors can combine outdoor activities with nearby historical sites. One camper mentioned, "There are two lakes in French Creek, Hopewell and Scott's Run and each contain many species of fish. We spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run."
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Lums Pond State Park in nearby Delaware consistently receives praise for its amenities. A recent visitor wrote, "The bathroom facilities and laundry are clean and modern. There are separate, individual shower rooms." Many glamping sites near Pennsauken feature similar modern bathroom facilities with hot water.
Privacy between sites: Despite being close to urban areas, many campgrounds maintain natural buffers. At French Creek State Park, campers appreciate the layout: "As long as you don't stay right across from the bath houses you will find ample shade at your site. There are so many trees and brush in between most sites you can't even really see your neighbors." This privacy creates a more authentic outdoor experience.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds in the region cater to families with dedicated facilities. One visitor to Old Cedar Campground shared, "Nice pool, good fishing, staff is great." Another mentioned the variety of activities: "We stayed for a few weeks here, waiting for school to end so we could take our 6 year old granddaughter back to our home in Florida. Every Saturday they had an organized activity for the kids."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds in the area have limited operating seasons. At Parvin State Park, operations run "April 1 to October 31," while others like Old Cedar Campground have a similar schedule: "April 21 to October 9." Some year-round options exist but may have reduced amenities in winter.
Reservation requirements: The popularity of glamping near Pennsauken means advance planning is essential. At Lums Pond State Park, a camper noted, "I understand why it is so difficult to get a reservation at Lums Pond." Most sites require reservations through state park websites or ReserveAmerica.
Variable site conditions: Terrain can differ significantly between campgrounds and even within the same facility. At French Creek State Park, a visitor observed, "Many of the sites surrounding ours were very rocky and left little option for a larger than normal sized tent." Research specific site characteristics when booking.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Parvin State Park offers designated swimming areas during summer months. A visitor noted, "Lake with water sports, hiking trails that are dog friendly, plenty of campsites. If you have kids staying longer for the lake would make sense." Most swimming areas are supervised by lifeguards from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Kid-friendly programming: Many campgrounds offer structured activities. At Old Cedar Campground, a camper shared, "Numerous seasonal campers. Reservation only includes 2 people - it's 8.00 per day for each additional person. My grandchildren loved visiting us, pool was clean - they had a few items that they could borrow - fishing was great - playground was adequate."
Playground availability: Look for sites near play equipment for easier supervision. At Wharton State Forest, one camper mentioned, "There is a huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake. There are trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers full-service sites but has specific placement requirements. One RVer noted, "It was cold so we asked to be put close to bathrooms so we could leave camper winterized. They accommodated us nicely." Most campgrounds have a mix of partial and full hookups with varying amperage options.
Site leveling considerations: Terrain throughout the Pine Barrens can create uneven sites. A camper at French Creek State Park shared, "The set up was relatively easy, although one person might have some difficulty. It held up well during an evening thunderstorm, but for a small seam leak near the door. We believe this is a result of the fact that our site was slightly uneven."
Road conditions: Access roads vary in quality throughout the region. An RVer at Old Cedar Campground mentioned, "Very narrow roads to sites, so not big rig friendly there but most sites are quite large. No gravel or pads on sites, just bare ground." Larger rigs should research specific campground roads before booking.
