Most Recommended Campgrounds in South Jersey for Every Type of Camper

Are you thinking about going camping but not sure where to go?

With so many choices, the big question is: What kind of camping trip do you want?

Do you like being surrounded by trees and hiking all day, or would you rather spend your time fishing, swimming, and kayaking on a peaceful lake?

Are you bringing kids who need lots of activities, like playgrounds, pools, and fun weekend events, or are you looking for a quiet escape with just the sounds of nature?

Maybe you like a little bit of both—adventure during the day and relaxation under the stars at night.

South Jersey has all of the above and more, so no matter what kind of camper you are, you’ll find the perfect spot to unwind, explore, and enjoy the great outdoors.

This guide will help you find the best camping spots and show you what each one has to offer.

1. Brendan T. Byrne State Forest – Burlington County

Brendan T. Byrne State Forest covers 37,242 acres of land in the Pine Barrens, making it one of the largest state forests in New Jersey.

It’s a great place for people who love hiking, biking, and exploring the outdoors.

The campground has 82 tent and trailer sites, each with a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern hook.

If you’re bringing your dog, sites 14 through 82 are pet-friendly, so they can join in on the adventure.

Perhaps the best part of this forest is Whitesbog Village, a historic site where blueberries were first cultivated.

If you walk through the village, you’ll see old buildings, cranberry bogs, and trails that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

You might also find brick and stone ruins from old settlements as you hike through the woods.

This is a quiet and peaceful campground, perfect for people who want to get away from city noise and enjoy nature.

It’s also a good spot for birdwatching since the forest is home to many species, including owls and hawks.

2. Godfrey Bridge Campground – Burlington County

If you’re looking for a no-frills camping experience, Godfrey Bridge Campground in Chatsworth is a great choice.

It’s located inside Wharton State Forest, which means you’ll be surrounded by miles of trees and nature.

This is primitive camping, so don’t expect flush toilets, running water, or electric hookups.

Instead, you’ll get 34 tent and trailer sites with just the basics: a fire ring and access to potable water nearby.

What makes this place special is its location near the Wading and Oswego Rivers.

If you love kayaking, canoeing, or tubing, you’ll be right next to the water.

There’s even a rental place called Mick’s Canoe Rental nearby, so you don’t need to bring your own boat.

Since it’s a remote area, you won’t hear much besides birds, wind through the trees, and the occasional splash from the river.

It’s the perfect spot if you’re looking to disconnect from technology and enjoy the outdoors.

3. Wading Pines Camping Resort – Burlington County

Wading Pines Camping Resort is a great place for campers who want nature and comfort at the same time.

Located on the Wading River, it has 300 campsites, including tent areas, RV sites, and big-rig pull-through sites.

Some of the RV spots even have 50-amp electric service and cable TV, so if you like modern conveniences while camping, you’ll be happy here.

Without question, the highlight of this campground is the saltwater swimming pool, which is a nice way to cool off in the summer.

There’s also a fishing pond, basketball and volleyball courts, and a playground for kids.

If you like being on the water, you can rent a canoe or kayak and paddle along the river.

And for a bit of fun, don’t miss the “Jersey Devil” train ride, which takes you on a short tour of the campground.

For even more adventure, the campground is just a short drive from the beaches, casinos, and amusement parks in South Jersey.

So, whether you want to relax by the fire or take a day trip to a nearby attraction, Wading Pines has something for everyone.

4. Oldman’s Creek Campground – Gloucester County

Oldman’s Creek Campground has been around since the 1950s, and it still has a classic, family-friendly atmosphere.

The campground changed owners in 2016, and they’ve been working to make improvements while keeping its old-fashioned charm.

The campground is open from April to November and has tent and RV sites, with some offering electric hookups.

It’s a simple, quiet place to camp, perfect for families or anyone who wants to relax without a lot of noise.

There’s a strong community feel, so if you like meeting other campers and enjoying a laid-back environment, this is a great choice.

5. Old Cedar Campground – Gloucester County

Old Cedar Campground is, interestingly, also a working family farm.

If you love animals and nature, this is a great spot to stay.

The campsites are large and shady, and you can choose from tent sites, RV sites with full hookups, and 50-amp pull-through sites.

There’s also WiFi in some areas, so you can stay connected if needed.

For fun, you can swim in the pool, play mini-golf, fish in one of the lakes, or let kids run around the playground.

If you like hiking, you can walk straight from the campground to the Elephant Swamp Nature Trail, a scenic path through the woods.

Another unique feature is the Two Bridges Wine Trail, which connects several local wineries along the Delaware River.

If you enjoy wine, you can spend an afternoon tasting locally made red and white wines before heading back to your campsite to watch the sunset.

6. Lake Kandle Campground – Gloucester County

Lake Kandle Campground is a private, members-only campground in Sewell, New Jersey, just a short drive from Philadelphia.

If you’re looking for a place to unwind, swim, and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, you’ve found it.

This family-owned spot has been around since 1960, and over the years, it’s become a beloved summer escape for families looking for a break from city life.

One thing to note is that tent camping isn’t allowed here.

It’s strictly for RVs, motorhomes, and pop-up campers, so if you’re looking to pitch a tent, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

Also, pets and alcohol are not permitted, which keeps the campground quiet and family-friendly.

There’s a large lake with sandy beaches for swimming, and if you prefer pools, there’s a water park with slides, diving boards, and a splash pad for kids.

There are also plenty of kayaks and paddle boats available for rent, so you can spend the day exploring the calm waters.

In addition, the campground hosts seasonal activities like movie nights, fishing derbies, and family picnics.

The 2025 season is already fully booked, but you can join the waiting list if you’re interested in securing a spot.

It’s the perfect place for families wanting a summer vacation spot with many activities, great swimming options, and a safe, quiet environment.

7. Timberlane Campground – Gloucester County

If you want a campground that’s super close to Philadelphia, Timberlane Campground in Clarksboro is the closest camping spot to the city.

That makes it great for people who want to spend time outdoors and go exploring the city.

This campground is also a popular stop for travelers who need a place to park their RV for a night or two while heading to other destinations.

It’s only a short drive from major attractions like Six Flags Great Adventure and Adventure Crossing, so if you’re looking for a weekend filled with roller coasters and thrill rides, this is a great base camp.

Timberlane has a variety of sites for tents, RVs, and even some cabins, so there are options for different camping styles.

Each site comes with the basics, like a picnic table and a fire ring, and there are restrooms and showers nearby.

For those traveling in big RVs, Timberlane has pull-through sites with full hookups, making it easy for larger campers to park without a hassle.

And, if you need WiFi, there’s free internet available throughout the campground.

It’s not the most remote or scenic place, but if you need a convenient, well-kept campground close to major attractions, Timberlane is a great pick.

8. Four Seasons Family Campground – Salem County

Four Seasons Family Campground is one of the most fun, family-friendly places to camp in Southern New Jersey.

Located in Salem County, this campground is surrounded by peaceful farmland––a great place to relax while still having plenty to do.

It’s family-owned and operated, which gives it a cozy, welcoming feel that bigger campgrounds sometimes lack.

You can bring an RV, camper, or tent, or you can rent a log cabin in the woods if you prefer a more comfortable stay.

One of the best features here is the huge swimming pool, which is perfect for cooling off on hot summer days.

If you have a dog, you’ll love that there’s a dog park where your furry friend can run and play.

And for those who like a little bit of tech even while camping, there’s broadband WiFi available throughout the park.

The campground also has its own restaurant, The Sundae Barn, which serves up ice cream, burgers, and snacks—so you don’t even have to cook if you don’t want to.

Plus, the themed weekends throughout the summer make this campground even more exciting.

These can include anything from pirate-themed treasure hunts to holiday festivals, live music, and fishing tournaments.

If you’re looking for a fun, activity-filled campground with lots of entertainment, this is one of the best places to go.

9. Adventure Bound Camping Resorts – Tall Pines – Salem County

Adventure Bound at Tall Pines is another family-friendly camping resort, but this one is right in the heart of the Pine Barrens.

For a place with modern amenities and a mix of adventure and relaxation, this is a great choice.

The campground has RV and tent sites, as well as cabins and cottages for rent if you prefer a little more comfort.

Entertainment-wise, there’s a swimming pool, sports courts, a playground, and tons of planned activities.

And if you’re traveling with the little ones, they’ll have a blast with the themed weekends and outdoor games.

The campground also offers hiking trails and nature walks, so if you love the outdoors but don’t want to sacrifice comfort, this place strikes the balance you need.

10. Parvin State Park Campground – Salem County

If you’re looking for a more natural, back-to-basics camping experience, Parvin State Park is a fantastic option.

Located in Pittsgrove Township, this park sits on the edge of the Pine Barrens and has a mix of pine forests, hardwood forests, and swampland, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

The park features two lakes—Parvin Lake and Thundergust Lake—where you can fish, boat, or swim.

There are 56 tent and trailer campsites, each with a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern hook.

Bathrooms, showers, and laundry facilities are nearby, so you can camp comfortably while feeling close to nature.

If you’re planning a group trip, there are four large group campsites, each big enough for up to 25 people.

For those who want more comfort, the park has 16 cabins with a living room, kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms, making them great for families or couples who want a more homey stay.

Hiking trails around the park take you through beautiful scenery and are great for spotting wildlife, so if you’re into birdwatching or photography, it’s a great place to bring your camera.

It’s one of the best places in New Jersey to experience real nature while still having the convenience of well-maintained facilities.

Now that you know about all these great campgrounds in New Jersey, which one sounds like the best choice for your next trip?

Do you see yourself hiking through quiet woods, fishing on a calm lake, or sitting around a campfire with your family and friends?

Maybe you’re looking for a campground with pools, playgrounds, and fun activities for the kids, or perhaps you want a peaceful, off-the-grid escape with nothing but nature around you.

No matter what kind of camper you are, New Jersey has a place that’s perfect for you.

Just make sure to book your site early, especially during peak camping season—some of the best campgrounds fill up fast!

And, of course, don’t forget the essentials. Pack up your tent, sleeping bag, and camping gear, load up on snacks, bring plenty of firewood, and double-check your packing list so you don’t leave anything behind.

No matter which campground you choose, adventure, fresh air, and great memories are waiting for you.