Tent camping near Essington, Pennsylvania offers access to both the Delaware River lowlands and nearby Pine Barrens ecosystem. The region sits at elevations between 10-400 feet with sandy soil and mixed deciduous forest cover. Summer camping typically sees temperatures between 70-85°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall campers should prepare for temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night.
What to do
Hiking and trail exploration: Green Lane Park offers multiple trail options through varying terrain. "Easy hike. We found a lot of really unique sites around the park. Will keep going back," shares Andrea R. The park maintains well-marked paths suitable for different skill levels.
Disc golf courses: Green Lane Park features an exceptional course that draws outdoor enthusiasts. According to Benjamin C., the park offers a "phenomenal disc golf course, hiking, and fishing." The course layout takes advantage of natural terrain with both wooded and open fairways.
Water activities: Tinicum Island provides boat-in only access with river camping opportunities. Bobby S. notes it's "A great place to stay if you have a watercraft." The surrounding waterways allow for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing in relatively calm waters.
What campers like
Pine Barrens ecosystem: Wharton State Forest Batona Campground offers access to a unique ecological area. According to Alyssa D., "It is so easy to get lost in these woods and I LOVE IT! I grew up near the pine barrens and would camp here many times with friends. If you want off the beaten path and not close to anyone... this is IT!"
Trail access from sites: Proximity to hiking paths makes some locations particularly appealing. As meghan G. notes about Batona Campground, "Best part of this campground is trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible." These direct connections eliminate driving between camping and hiking.
Wildlife viewing: Hibernia County Park provides habitat for various birds and animals. The park's wooded setting creates opportunities for nature observation, especially during morning and evening hours when wildlife is most active.
What you should know
Campsite privacy varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer minimal separation between sites. According to Tiffany B. at Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park, "Sites are close to each other with absolutely no privacy. Bathrooms however are nice and clean with plenty of them around the park."
Seasonal water availability: Several campgrounds turn off water sources during colder months. Trip Over Life notes about Batona Campground, "A water pump provides fresh water but is not available in the winter."
Bathroom facilities range widely: From pit toilets to modern bathrooms, expect variation between locations. Regarding Mullica River Campground, Rebecca S. warns, "There is a pit toilet, but did not check its status." At other locations like Green Lane Park, bathrooms are "nice and clean with plenty of them around the park."
Tips for camping with families
Look for beginner-friendly options: Sites with amenities make first-time camping easier. David K. says Ridley Creek State Park "is great for first time campers. I go camping here almost every year and they have a nice open field with two sites and two fire pits. They also have a tone of trails to hike on."
Kid-focused fishing spots: Certain areas cater specifically to younger anglers. A reviewer noted that at Hibernia County Park, "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing." This pond provides a separate fishing area designated for children under 12.
Playground access: Some parks offer play equipment near camping areas. According to John Z., Hibernia County Park has a "Great playground" in addition to its fishing opportunities, providing entertainment options beyond hiking and water activities.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions to campgrounds: Sand and narrow access roads pose challenges for larger vehicles. Regarding Batona Campground, meghan G. advises, "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle. 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."
Site size and leveling requirements: Many tent-focused sites can accommodate small RVs with preparation. Jennifer S. notes about Fort Washington State Park Campground, "There's at least two fire pits per camp ground. There's only group camping. They give you firewood—if you bring your own, leave with any left over."
Limited hookups: Most campgrounds near Essington provide minimal RV services. Stuart K. explains at Fort Washington, you'll find "decent, not great, amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings and stand-up BBQ grill. There were also a few scattered water spigots and drinking fountains. Other than these basic amenities, you should be prepared to bring your own gear for all your camping needs."
