Camping options near Willingboro, New Jersey range from rustic tent sites to full-hookup RV spots within 20-25 miles of town. The region sits within the coastal plain at elevations under 100 feet and features sandy soil characteristic of the Pine Barrens ecosystem. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions in the 60-75°F range.
What to do
Kayaking on Mullica River: Accessible from Goshen Pond Campground where some sites have direct river access. "Our site was right next to the Mullica River, and had excellent views if you walked just a couple steps from the tent. We were able to put our kayaks in right next to the site which was very convenient," notes camper Anna D.
Disc golf courses: Fort Washington State Park offers disc golf among its recreational facilities. "Great historical park along Washington's route to Valley Forge... Come for Militia Hill, hawk watching, cross country ski, or disc golf, and the trails along the Wissahickon Creek," shares Sue C. about Fort Washington State Park Campground.
Bird watching excursions: Several parks in the region offer excellent bird watching, particularly for spotting raptors. "From this very spot you can view the beautiful raptors that migrate here on a seasonal basis in both the Spring and Autumn," explains a visitor about Fort Washington. Other birds spotted include "Dark-eyed Junco, Common Loon, Blue Heron, Osprey, Cooper's Hawk, Bald Eagles, Great Horned & Barn Owls."
Historic site exploration: The area contains significant Revolutionary War history at sites like Washington Crossing State Park. "Every year, they re-enact Washington's troops crossing the Delaware! It was VERY cold the year I went. To warm up, there is a small visitor's center where they have a reproduction of the famous painting commemorating the moment," says David S. about Washington Crossing State Park.
What campers like
Privacy at certain sites: Some campgrounds offer secluded sites even when near other campers. A visitor to Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest shared, "The boyfriend and I stayed for a weekend at one of the primitive tent sites. Our site was private and secluded. We had a great time."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms are consistently mentioned in positive reviews. "Bathrooms were clean. Showers were a little spidery but kind of expected at a campground," notes Megan S. about her June camping trip to Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Easy Philadelphia access: Campgrounds west of Willingboro offer convenient access to Philadelphia. "This is a very nice KOA, just over the Delaware River from Philly. 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," reports Jason E. about Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA.
Waterfront sites: Many campers prioritize sites with water access. A camper at Timberland Lake noted, "Stayed here from June 24th-27th on site 38. It was a really nice size, and the kids could fish right off the dock on the back."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for weekend stays. At Brendan Byrne State Forest, "if using an RV in a tent site you are not allowed to add another tent to the site. There is a two tent limit per site despite the site allowing up to 6 people," cautions Jesse G.
Seasonal water availability: Water sources may not be functional year-round at some campgrounds. At Batona — Wharton State Forest, "water is seasonal," warns a camper. Another visitor to Brendan Byrne mentioned, "the closest water spigot wasn't working. Not a big problem as there are plenty of others."
Road conditions: Several campgrounds have sandy or rough access roads. One camper at Batona Campground noted, "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle." Similarly, at Timberland Lake, a visitor reported, "the roads need some work. There are many pot holes that need gravel."
Pest awareness: Ticks and chiggers are common in the Pine Barrens. A visitor to Goshen Pond advised, "Great sites, great trails, lots of hiking and off road trails for dirt bike/atv/trucks. Pretty good boating/fishing. Just gotta check often for chiggers and ticks." Another camper at Brendan Byrne shared, "Ticks were very active on this visit be sure to remember your bug spray and tuck your pants in your socks!"
Tips for camping with families
Halloween festivities: Several campgrounds offer special Halloween weekend events. "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," shares Jessica D. about Timberland Lake Campground.
Urban glamping alternatives: For families wanting a unique experience, boat stays in Philadelphia provide an urban camping option. Philly Love Boats at Pier 5 Marina offers an urban glamping experience that one visitor called "very peaceful."
Activity-rich campgrounds: Some campgrounds provide extensive recreational facilities for children. A visitor to Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA reported, "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."
Six Flags proximity: Certain campgrounds are strategically located near major attractions. "This campground is conveniently located near six flags (5min), Sesame Place (40 min) and Philadelphia (60 min). Campground has friendly staff and plenty of activities for children of all ages," notes a camper at Timberland Lake.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: RV sites differ significantly in hookup availability and quality. At Brendan Byrne State Forest, there are "lots of potable water hydrants around the campground so not far of a walk to fill any water needs you may have. Showers and bathrooms are ok, kept pretty clean."
Site size considerations: Some campgrounds have limitations on RV length. At Batona Campground, "Sites are suitable for tents or small campers. The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit."
Seasonal closures: Operating seasons vary by location. A camper at Timberland Lake noted it operates "Mar 1 to Dec 1," making it a good option for spring through fall camping trips.
