If you’re scratching your head and asking what county is Clementon NJ in, you aren't alone. It’s a tiny spot on the map, barely two square miles, so it tends to get lumped in with its bigger neighbors.
Clementon is in Camden County.
That’s the short version. But if you’re moving here, visiting the legendary amusement park, or just settling a bet, there is a lot more to the story than just a name on a tax bill. This little borough has survived fires, the Great Depression, and the near-total collapse of its biggest landmark. It’s a scrappy place with a deep South Jersey soul.
Why Everyone Asks About Camden County
Camden County is a massive, diverse slice of New Jersey. You’ve got the urban density of Camden City right across from Philly, and then you’ve got the quiet, pine-scented edges of the Pine Barrens. Clementon sits somewhere in the middle. It was officially incorporated as a borough back in 1925, carved out of the old Clementon Township.
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Most people know the name because of Clementon Park and Splash World. For over 100 years, this park has been the heartbeat of the town. Honestly, it’s one of the oldest "trolley parks" in the entire country. Back in the day, people would hop on a trolley in Camden City and ride it all the way to the end of the line just to swim in Clementon Lake.
The Weird History You Probably Didn't Know
Clementon isn't just a suburb; it’s a place where history actually happened. We’re talking about a town that hosted socialist presidential candidates like Norman Thomas in the 1930s. He gave a speech to 3,500 people right in the park while the country was reeling from the Depression.
Even weirder? A heavyweight boxer named Al Ettore used the park as his training camp in 1936 to get ready for a fight against Joe Louis. Thousands of fans flocked to the borough just to watch him train. At one point, a section of the grandstand literally collapsed under the weight of 500 spectators. Luckily, nobody was seriously hurt, but it’s the kind of local legend that stays with a town forever.
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By the Numbers (The Nerdy Stuff)
- Population: Somewhere around 5,400 people. It’s small. You'll probably recognize your neighbors at the Wawa.
- Size: Just 1.9 square miles. You could walk across the whole town in an afternoon if you had a good pair of sneakers.
- Location: It's bordered by Lindenwold, Pine Hill, and Pine Valley (which is famous for having one of the most exclusive golf courses in the world).
What’s it Like Living in Clementon Today?
If you’re looking at real estate, you've probably noticed that the property taxes in the borough are a bit... intense. In fact, Clementon has historically had one of the highest tax rates in the state. Why? Because it’s a small borough that has to fund its own services without a massive commercial tax base.
The vibe is very much "old school South Jersey." You’ve got a mix of modest single-family homes, some apartments, and a lot of history. Most residents—about 80%—commute to work alone in their cars, usually heading toward Philly or northern Camden County.
The Survival of the Park
For a minute there, we almost lost the town’s identity. In 2019, Clementon Park suddenly shut down. No warning. People showed up for "Customer Appreciation Day" and the gates were locked. It stayed that way for over a year, and locals were terrified the land would be sold off for more townhouses or a strip mall.
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But in 2021, a guy named Gene Staples bought it at auction for about $2.3 million. He basically saved the place. He scrubbed the pools, repainted the rides, and brought the "spit and polish" back to a park that had been neglected for years. Today, it’s back in action, and it remains the biggest reason people from outside the county even know where Clementon is.
Navigating the Area
If you’re visiting, you’re likely coming in via Route 30 (White Horse Pike) or Berlin Road. It’s super close to the Lindenwold PATCO station, which is the lifeline for anyone working in Philadelphia.
Quick Things to Do Nearby:
- Clementon Park & Splash World: Obviously. Ride the Hell Cat if you want a classic wooden coaster experience that will definitely shake your bones.
- Rowand Pond: A nice little spot for fishing or just clearing your head.
- Pine Valley Golf Club: You probably can’t get in (it’s famously private), but it’s right next door.
- Dining: Cotardo’s Ristorante is a local staple. People have been going there for decades for authentic Italian food.
So, What’s the Verdict?
Clementon is a tiny, resilient borough in the heart of Camden County. It’s a place that’s seen its share of ups and downs—from the glory days of the trolley era to the nail-biting auction of its beloved park.
If you’re moving here, expect a tight-knit community and a high tax bill. If you’re just passing through, stop for some Italian food and take a look at the lake that started it all.
Next Steps for You:
If you're planning a trip, check the official Clementon Park website for their seasonal hours, as they typically only run from Memorial Day to Labor Day. For those looking at houses, verify the latest school district ratings for the Clementon Elementary School and Highland Regional High School, as these are the primary spots for local kids.