Camping options near Pitman, New Jersey span across the state's distinctive Pine Barrens region, where sandy soil supports unique pine and oak forests. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations under 200 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-90°F. The region receives about 45 inches of rainfall annually, making spring camping occasionally muddy but creating ideal conditions for the area's numerous lakes and waterways.
What to do
Hiking through pine forests: Brendan Byrne State Forest offers extensive trail networks for day hikes. "There are probably hundreds of miles of trails through the woods and bogs to explore. Could spend a whole vacation just with these trails and never leave this state park," notes Benjamin K. The forest's remote location provides true seclusion, situated "at least 10 miles away from anything more than a single house in the woods."
Water activities on multiple lakes: Lums Pond State Park Campground provides various water recreation options. "Great state park with lots to do (kayaking, biking, and more)," shares Matt S. The park's pond is suitable for electric motors only, making it peaceful for paddlers. One visitor mentioned "plenty of boating and kayaking on the pond and a decent amount of hiking."
River tubing experiences: The Wading River at Wading Pines Camping Resort offers a refreshing summer activity. "We did have 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," advises Stacy D. Another camper confirms that "you can tube down the river from one end of camp to the other."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: French Creek State Park Campground receives high marks for spacious, secluded campsites. "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," explains Jen R. The campground's layout is particularly appreciated by those seeking quiet.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses. "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," reports Mark about Lums Pond. Similarly at Parvin State Park Campground, "Bathrooms were clean but most of the faucets on the sinks were broken."
Pond and lake access: Waterfront sites are particularly valued. At Atsion Family Camp, "I always get site #8 and it has an amazing view of the lake," mentions Alexa L. Sites with water views tend to book quickly throughout the region, with many offering direct water access for fishing or launching small watercraft.
What you should know
Iron content in water: Some campgrounds have mineral-rich water. Frank J. notes at Parvin State Park, "The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing. Most of the showers were out of order. The toilets were clean but had the orange staining from the iron in the water."
Seasonal considerations: Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest offers different experiences throughout the year. "I arrived on a Tuesday a few days after they closed the pool, and by Wednesday I had the whole row of tent sites to myself," shares Jorah. Weekday camping in shoulder seasons provides more solitude.
Site cleanliness varies: While most campgrounds maintain clean facilities, individual sites may need attention upon arrival. At Atsion, one camper mentioned "There was a bag tied to a tree with someone's trash in it... I spent my camp setup time also picking out the worst offenders (bottle caps, broken glass, zip ties, broken off plastic bits)."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers excellent recreation for children. "This campground was so well maintained. There was so much to do there - a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow and even more," says Nicole S. Another visitor mentions, "Our daughter really enjoyed the playground (which was excellent, by my standards)."
Water recreation options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas. At Lums Pond, "The kids loved the fishing pond and exploring fantasy island." Many parks include dedicated swimming areas with various levels of amenities, from basic lake beaches to developed pool complexes.
Text alerts for activities: Some private campgrounds use technology to keep guests informed. Nicole S. mentioned that Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA "offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget," which helps families plan their schedules without missing events.
Tips from RVers
Site layouts and hookups: Jellystone Park South Jersey provides well-designed RV sites. Matt S. reports, "Our site included a nice concrete pad big enough to park our 45' motorhome+ toad" and was "roomy with plenty of mature shade trees." The location of hookups matters too - at some campgrounds, hookups can be inconveniently positioned.
Leveling considerations: Many campgrounds in the Pine Barrens have relatively flat sites. "The site was fairly level, side-to-side, so I really only needed to level front to back. That was a bonus," notes Mark about Lums Pond. French Creek offers "sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze."
Water concerns: RVers should note water availability. At Old Cedar Campground, a camper warned, "The water hookups are shared every other site (at least in the Fence Loop). I was lucky my 75' hose barely reached the distance needed. Be sure to bring extra hoses."
