Camping options near Collingswood, New Jersey range from rustic tent sites to full-amenity campgrounds within a 20-45 minute drive. Most campsites in this region sit at elevations between 30-100 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with spring camping often featuring wildflowers and fall camping showcasing colorful foliage across the region's mixed deciduous forests.
What to do
Lake activities at Hospitality Creek: This campground features a swimming lake with boat rentals and dedicated swimming areas, located about 30 minutes from Collingswood. "We navigated the park to our lakefront site using the map with pre-marked route in our welcome packet. The roads and turns were tight for our 36' motorhome, but manageable. Our lakefront site(#57) was superb!" writes Matt S. at Hospitality Creek Campground.
Explore the Pine Barrens ecosystem: Wharton State Forest offers unique access to New Jersey's Pine Barrens with distinctive flora and fauna. "We tent camped at Bodine campground in 2018. 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," shares Dina S.
Urban camping experience: For a unique option, consider Philadelphia's waterfront glamping. "I am definitely going to give this a shot this looks very peaceful," notes William C. about Philly Love Boats, offering an urban glamping alternative with city views from the water.
Hawk watching: Fort Washington State Park provides excellent bird watching opportunities along migration routes. "If, like me, you are trying to explore the wonder and splendor of Valley Forge and have stumbled across Fort Washington SP enroute, then what a little gem you have discovered," writes Stuart K., noting the park's "wonderfully built Observation Deck" for watching raptors.
What campers like
Peaceful environments: Many campers appreciate quieter sites away from 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," shares Jorah about Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA.
Spacious campsites: Campers frequently mention site size as important. "Wharton state forest provided us with the great outdoor and camping experience! The campside was clean, spacious, includes the firepit and the table. While we were surrounded by other campers, we enjoyed how private it was!!!" notes Olga G. about Wharton State Forest.
Recreational amenities: Swimming pools, fishing opportunities, and playgrounds get frequent positive mentions. "Lake with swing and fishing and two pools. No pets no alcohol no store but they have a snack stand. Make sure to get an end campsite or your table will be by the sanitary dump. Large sights kids had fun," writes Mya M. about Lake Kandle in Sewell.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Check opening dates before planning your trip. "This does close for winter and reopens in April but call park for exact closure dates because they do change," warns Travyl Couple about Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA. Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through October.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds near Collingswood require advance booking. "We got there, the host wasn't very friendly. We had to pay $50 per night for a tent site that was sandy mud," reports AdventureStang about Old Cedar Campground.
Public vs. private access: Some parks restrict camping to specific groups. "Restricted to only residents. Looks nice, if you can actually stay here," notes Les R. about Alverthorpe Private Park. Always call ahead to confirm access requirements.
Proximity to essentials: Most sites are within 15 minutes of grocery stores or supplies. "The nature trails accessible from the campground make for great wooded walking. And if you forgot anything, there's a Walmart about 3.5 miles away," shares Matt S. about Hospitality Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's programs. "This campground was so well maintained. There was so much to do there a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow and even more. They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget," recommends Nicole S. about Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA.
Swimming options: Campsites with swimming facilities provide reliable entertainment. "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. about Atsion Family Camp.
Safety considerations: Look for campgrounds with lifeguards for water activities. "The pools are nice and have on-duty lifeguards all day. We rode our bikes around, enjoyed time on the lake in a rented paddleboat, and had a blast at the 70s-themed live concert at the pavilion on Saturday night," reports Matt S.
Tips from RVers
Narrow access roads: Some campgrounds have tight turns for larger rigs. "The roads and turns were tight for our 36' motorhome, but manageable," notes Matt S. about Hospitality Creek Campground.
Hookup quality: Check for full hookups if needed. "The water, electric, and sewer hookups looked practically brand new (or at least really well maintained)," reports Matt S. about Hospitality Creek Campground.
Wi-Fi reliability: Internet access varies significantly between campgrounds. "We need (not want) working wifi. The park's wifi didn't work most of the time and was too slow when it did work to allow streaming or working on the computer," cautions Matt S., suggesting families check connectivity options before booking if they need reliable internet.
