The New Jersey Pine Barrens surrounding Pittsgrove features distinctive acidic soil and cedar-stained waterways, creating a unique camping environment within 35 miles of Philadelphia. This region maintains cooler temperatures than coastal areas, typically 5-8 degrees lower during summer camping season. Water recreation options extend beyond the popular lake swimming with multiple rivers offering kayak rentals and fishing opportunities at several campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking system access: Belleplain State Forest's trail network connects directly to campsite areas with minimal driving required. "Nice hiking trails and playground. Site was level. Bath house was a little run down, but serviceable," reports a camper at Belleplain State Forest.
Kayaking and canoeing: Launch directly from certain waterfront sites at Atsion Family Camp. "Our site was right on Wading River and we launched our kayaks right at the site! Our tent has a full view of the sky and at night it was like a planetarium as we admired the sky from our cots," notes a reviewer at Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest.
River tubing: Float between different sections of campgrounds during summer months. A visitor to Wading Pines Camping Resort explains, "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."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked ponds offer varied fishing experiences throughout the region. "Good fishing and nice trails. Nice campsites, some big enough for trailers. Bathrooms were very clean," mentions a camper about Parvin State Park.
What campers like
Large private sites: Many campers appreciate the spaciousness at certain campgrounds. "The campside was clean, spacious, includes the firepit and the table. While we were surrounded by other campers, we enjoyed how private it was!!!" shares an Atsion camper.
Swimming options: Clear lake swimming with designated beaches enhances summer stays. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, a visitor notes, "Great state park with lots to do (kayaking, biking, and more)."
Variety of accommodations: The region offers everything from primitive tent sites to luxury glamping near Pittsgrove, New Jersey. "We stayed in a yurt. It was a great experience that we would definitely do again. There is a small lake that was great to kayak on," describes a Belleplain State Forest visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites offer natural observation opportunities. "Our site was HUGE!!!! It was also super private with trees and a lot of privacy from the road and our neighbors... The Kayak and Canoe rentals were right near us. The nature center had planned activities for families each day," reports a recent Belleplain visitor.
What you should know
Water quality considerations: Some campgrounds have mineral-rich water systems. A camper at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA noted: "Bathrooms were clean with some nice hot water but very small and difficult to change in. The entire park itself is fairly small as well."
Seasonal popularity impacts: Sites fill quickly during peak periods, particularly waterfront locations. "Book early because it fills up fast!" warns a Lums Pond reviewer.
Sandy terrain challenges: Many campgrounds feature sandy soil requiring special tent stakes. A visitor observed: "The entire campground is sand and gets very dusty and messy. This was the dirtiest campground we've stayed at, meaning the trailer and truck needed a full bath once we got home."
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife requires proper food storage. "Campsite is great for people with families as there was a playground within 50 feet so it is a bit louder and busier. We loved the free and clean showers and bathrooms but we had to drive to them from our site," shares a Parvin visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access planning: Lake swimming beaches often require separate entrance fees beyond camping costs. At Old Cedar Campground, one camper notes, "We spent a few weeks here, waiting for school to end so we could take our 6 year old granddaughter back to our home in Florida... The wonderful part was having them visit us - for $8 per day the grandchildren were able to play miniature golf, swim in the pool (they had pool toys to borrow) fish (and yes they caught bass)."
Playground proximity: Request sites near playgrounds for convenience with small children. "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)," recommends an Atsion camper.
Bug preparation: The region's wetlands require proper insect protection. "Bring bug spray, usually see ticks," advises a visitor to Parvin State Park.
Activity scheduling: Many campgrounds offer organized programming for children. "Every Saturday they had an organized activity for the kids.... EVERYONE was extremely friendly," reports an Old Cedar Campground guest.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Several campgrounds feature uneven sites requiring proper equipment. A camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park - Elmer advises: "Site was gravel with a small concrete patio and decently sized. All hookups worked as required so no complaints there. Make sure you bring everything you need with you, because this place is literally in the middle of nowhere and a minimum 15 minutes ride to any type of civilization."
Water hookup variations: Some campgrounds have shared water hookups between sites. "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," warns a visitor to Old Cedar Campground.
Dump station limitations: Most state parks have limited dump facilities requiring patience during checkout. "The dump station is sometimes secured has a combination lock. Ask for the combination during check-in," advises a recent Parvin camper.
Road navigation: Internal campground roads can be challenging for larger rigs. "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," explains a Parvin State Park visitor.
