Cabin camping options span the Pine Barrens region near Willingboro, New Jersey, situated in Burlington County about 19 miles northeast of Philadelphia. This area features sandy soil that's characteristic of the Pine Barrens ecosystem, with elevations generally under 200 feet above sea level. The region experiences distinct seasons with humid summers reaching 90°F and winter nights often dropping below freezing, making spring and fall particularly popular for camping visits.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 5-10 feet from your site: At Atsion Family Camp in Wharton State Forest, sites near the water provide excellent fishing access. A camper noted, "Our site was right on Wading River and we launched our kayaks right at the site!" The river fishing offers direct access without needing to hike to separate fishing spots.
Explore historic villages: 15 minute drive: Beyond camping, the historic Batsto Village preserves iron-making heritage from the 1700s. As one camper mentioned, "Batsto is a 15 minute drive. Hikes start either there or you can access from Atsion as well. There are little trails around the campsite too."
Winter activities: seasonal: During colder months, Turkey Swamp Park offers unique winter recreation. A visitor shared, "Ice skate on the lake in the winter or just enjoy a gorgeous walk in the woods." The park maintains winter trails that remain accessible when other camping areas close for the season.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: At Brendan Byrne State Forest, the spacious campsites offer good separation from neighbors. A reviewer appreciated that "sites are spaced out enough to offer privacy. Good trees for hammocking! Plenty of room for a few tents at each site." This natural setting provides a more secluded experience than many campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Turkey Swamp Park maintains well-kept bathrooms and showers that campers consistently rate highly. A recent visitor commented, "The bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained. There is a pretty lake with good fishing and they sell bait at the Ranger office."
Yurt accommodations: For those seeking yurt camping near Willingboro, New Jersey, Wading Pines Camping Resort offers these popular structures. Campers appreciate the modern amenities inside the yurts, with one noting, "They have 300 camp sites spaced out nicely. All the hook ups you need. Many activities. Live music in the summer."
What you should know
Primitive access requirements: For those seeking true wilderness, Round Valley State Park offers remote sites that require effort to reach. A camper explained, "This is a great campground that is super private and quiet - great for getting out to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort!"
Bug preparedness essential: Ticks and mosquitoes are common throughout the Willingboro area, particularly in wooded sites. One camper at Brendan Byrne State Forest warned, "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!"
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds in the area require advance planning, especially for premium sites and yurt accommodations. Weekends at Old Cedar Campground fill quickly during summer and fall seasons. A visitor recommended, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and pools: multiple locations: Several campgrounds feature family-friendly recreation areas. At Timberland Lake Campground, "Playground, basket ball, beautiful pool and for an extra fee beach access" are available for children of various ages.
Educational opportunities: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers structured activities for children throughout the day. A parent shared, "They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget. The place is so clean including the bathrooms."
Special event camping: Many campgrounds host seasonal events that appeal to families. As one camper explained about Timberland Lake, "We LOVE camping here in the fall!! They do their own haunted walk through that is just awesome! Everyone decorates. They have a dj every Saturday! Plenty of activities for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: When staying at Old Cedar Campground, RVers should know about the water hookup situation. A camper advised, "The water hookups are shared every other site. I was lucky my 75' hose barely reached the distance needed. Be sure to bring extra hoses."
Pull-through availability: Tohickon Valley County Park has limitations for larger rigs. A camper noted, "An RV would have a tough time but for car camping it's great. The Delaware Canal is nearby with the tow path for biking. That makes this a nice Bikepacking stop."
Seasonal access: Many RV campgrounds in the Willingboro area close during winter months. Before planning winter yurt camping near Willingboro, verify operating schedules. One visitor to Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA mentioned, "This does close for winter and reopens in April but call park for exact closure dates because they do change."
