Camping options near Swedesboro, New Jersey offer access to the diverse ecosystems of the Delaware Valley and Pine Barrens. This area sits at a relatively low elevation of 50-100 feet above sea level, creating conditions that can be humid in summer with temperatures frequently reaching the mid-80s to 90s. Water activities remain popular due to the abundance of lakes, ponds, and river access points within a 30-minute radius.
What to Do
Hiking trails for all abilities: At French Creek State Park Campground in nearby Elverson, the network of trails accommodates various experience levels. "There are so many wonderful activities. There really is something for everyone here and if you can't find it you aren't looking very hard," reports one visitor. The park maintains both paved and natural surface trails, with trail maps available at the office.
Kayaking on calm waters: Brandywine River access points provide paddling opportunities for beginners through experts. "Being on the Brandywine, you can fish and rent canoes. The river is usually very calm and good for a float," notes a camper at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA. Rental costs typically range from $25-45 for half-day excursions.
Fishing in stocked lakes: Lums Pond State Park Campground offers year-round fishing opportunities. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," explains a visitor. A Delaware fishing license is required, with non-resident one-day passes available for $8.50.
What Campers Like
Private sites with mature trees: Old Cedar Campground receives praise for its natural setting. "We went to Old Cedar Campground in Monroeville, New Jersey, for a quiet getaway weekend. This is a small and basic campground, not a resort. No fancy amenities," notes a camper. Sites feature fire rings and picnic tables, with most offering ample space between neighbors.
Clean bathroom facilities: Multiple campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept bath facilities. At Lums Pond, "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease." Facilities typically include hot showers, though availability may be limited during off-season months.
Waterfront camping options: Atsion Family Camp in Wharton State Forest provides direct lake access. "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)," shares a regular visitor. Waterfront sites typically book 3-6 months in advance during peak season.
What You Should Know
Seasonal facility limitations: Many campgrounds have reduced services during off-peak months. "We stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! The honor system of payment at the office makes it really easy to come in late and leave early, make sure you have cash on you," advises a winter visitor to French Creek State Park.
Site access considerations: Belleplain State Forest has specific site navigation challenges. "Make sure you have a map of the site handy, as it can be hard to navigate with the foliage and lack of marked roadways," warns one camper. The forest also notes: "there is absolutely nowhere to leave your trash, so be prepared to pack in and pack out."
Yurt camping availability: Yurt camping near Swedesboro, New Jersey requires advance planning. "We stayed in a yurt. it was a great experience that we would definitely do again," shares a Belleplain State Forest visitor. Yurts typically cost $40-65 per night and feature wooden platforms, canvas walls, and basic furnishings.
Tips for Camping with Families
Dedicated kid zones: Jellystone Park South Jersey offers structured activities. "Our site was directly across from the Pavilion which was great for Saturday night's live band," notes a camper. The resort schedules daily activities during summer months, typically between 10am-8pm.
Beach access with supervision: Multiple area lakes have designated swimming areas. "The swimming lake was beautiful. We biked the trails, and hiked others that didn't allow bikes," shares a Belleplain State Forest visitor. Most swimming areas operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day with lifeguards on duty between 10am-6pm.
Nature education programs: State parks run interpretive activities throughout summer. "The nature center had planned activities for families each day," mentions a Belleplain visitor. Programs are typically free with camping registration and cover local wildlife, ecology, and outdoor skills.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA gets mixed reviews for big rig access. "It's a 20 minute ride into Philly and Uber was was quick and responsive. This is a nice KOA with full hook ups, tent sites, cabins, and even glamping cabins," reports a visitor. Sites accommodating rigs over 35 feet are limited, with premium pull-through spots recommended for units over 40 feet.
Water quality issues: Water systems can vary significantly between parks. "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," notes a visitor to Parvin State Park. RVers often recommend arriving with fresh water tanks already filled.
Dump station planning: Facilities can be limited or congested. "The worst was the dump station. It is just a little hole on the side of the road and the ONLY dump station for the 3 campgrounds! It was very unlevel and not easy to fully dump our tanks," cautions a Belleplain camper. Holiday weekends can mean 1-2 hour waits at single-station facilities.
