Somerdale offers diverse camping options with forest campgrounds scattered throughout the region. The Pine Barrens dominate the landscape, with characteristic sandy soil, cedar-stained water, and pine forests creating distinct camping conditions. Most campgrounds sit at low elevations under 200 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and high humidity from June through August.
What to do
Explore Goshen Pond Camping Area: This secluded section of Wharton State Forest allows primitive camping with direct water access. "Really liked this campground. I like campgrounds which have you park off and walk in to your site. There is more foot traffic, but you don't hear as many cars coming and going and driving past your site all the time," notes camper Elliott B. The site provides vault toilets and potable water.
Experience the Pinelands: The expansive forests offer extensive trail systems with distinctive flora. "In addition to the peaceful vibe, the people are friendly, the little office store has everything you forgot to pack, and if you look around the campground edges or follow the walking trail into the woods, you will find wonderful native plants like blueberry, viburnum, clethra, and meadow beauty," writes Jorah about their stay at Clarksboro KOA.
Visit historic sites: Several preserved buildings throughout Wharton State Forest offer glimpses into regional history. "Across the street from the entrance is a home that sells sundries and firewood. Down at the Atsion office a mile away they can sell you firewood as well. Picalilli Inn isn't far, they have great wings. Batsto is a 15 minute drive," advises Steve, describing attractions near Atsion Family Camp.
What campers like
Large, private sites: Many campers appreciate the spaciousness at Hospitality Creek Campground. "Our lakefront site(#57) was superb! It was between a small, paved boat ramp and a row of arborvitae trees on the other side separating us from the neighboring site. The entire site was level and covered in mulch," writes Matt S., highlighting the campground's attention to site design.
Access to recreation options: Water features are prominent at several campgrounds. "The park is clean, quiet, full of families. The staff are friendly and welcoming. It's easy to navigate to the park from the interstate, and big rigs fit easily. I would definitely plan to stay here to visit Philly!" notes Jason E. about his stay at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA.
Seasonal variety: Off-season camping provides a different experience with fewer crowds. "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. Maybe that's why it was so peaceful, but every night after my cacophonous conference in Philadelphia, I couldn't wait to turn down Timberlane Road and see that little KOA sign glowing in the darkness," reports Jorah.
What you should know
Bathing facilities vary significantly: While some campgrounds offer modern amenities, others provide only basics. "The bathrooms are very basic. Fresh water pump is located at entrance to campground. Each campsite is a cleared area with a fire pit," explains Meghan G. about Batona Campground in Wharton State Forest.
Wildlife considerations: Ticks are prevalent in warmer months. "Spacious campsite, although the closest water spigot wasn't working. Not a big problem as there are plenty of others. Bathrooms were clean. Showers were a little spidery but kind of expected at a campground. Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!" warns Megan S. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Specific campground rules: Many locations prohibit alcohol consumption. "Best part of this campground is trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible. The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle," notes a reviewer about camping at Batona.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Many campgrounds welcome pets with minor restrictions. "My friends and I stayed here overnight for Cotopaxi's philly questival- it's easy to find, well-maintained, and the campsites are spaced so you can meet other people but also have your own space in the woods! Also loved the produce stand across the street from the entrance," writes Tia Y. about Atsion Family Camp, one of several dog-friendly campgrounds near Somerdale.
Kid-friendly amenities: Old Cedar Campground offers various activities for children. "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), every Saturday they had an organized activity for the kids," describes Craig W.
Waterfront options: Several locations offer swimming opportunities during summer months. "LOVE!!!! I always get 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)," explains Alexa L.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Sandy roads present challenges at some locations. "This campground (Goshen Pond) was mostly empty while we were there in August. Our site was very quiet, but a lot of the sites are close together without any barriers, so if the campground got crowded it wouldn't be very private. It's only a one minute walk from the parking area to the site," notes Anna D.
Hookup availability: Ridley Creek State Park across the Delaware River offers limited but useful services. "Terrific space for exploring," shares Eileen H. about the Group Camp area which provides electric hookups and water.
Delivery services: Some campgrounds provide convenience services. "We ordered food from their website which was promptly delivered to our site. That was cool. We had great wifi connectivity. And the firewood they sold burned for several hours," explains Matt S. about Hospitality Creek Campground, noting they'll "deliver firewood, ice, and food from the camp store to your site."
Legend
