Dispersed camping near Bedminster, New Jersey requires careful planning due to the limited availability of public lands. Most free camping options are found within 50-60 miles of Bedminster in neighboring Pennsylvania and New York. The region presents a mix of state forests and federal lands with varying restrictions. Winter camping requires additional preparation as temperatures in the area can drop to the low 20s, with occasional snow accumulation from December through February.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides numerous hiking opportunities with interconnected trail systems. One camper noted, "Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," making it suitable for day-long explorations from your camping site.
Wildlife observation: While staying at Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, watch for native wildlife. The site has bear boxes for food storage, indicating bear activity in the area. A camper mentioned it was "well maintained w bear boxes provided," highlighting the importance of proper food storage.
Water collection trips: Plan for water collection hikes when staying at backcountry sites. As one camper stated about Appalachian Trail Campsite 2, "No Water (nearest is sunfish pound- easy hike about a 1 round trip)." These water runs add extra activity to your camping experience but require proper filtration equipment.
What campers like
Hammock-friendly trees: Many dispersed sites offer good hammock camping options. A reviewer at Appalachian Trail Campsite 2 mentioned, "I was in a hammock and it was a great place for that!" while another noted, "Good trees for hammocking," making this location ideal for hammock campers.
Privacy options: Campers appreciate the balance between community and solitude. At Appalachian Trail Campsite 2, one visitor found "the perfect balance of community and space" and explained that "We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too," allowing for customizable social experiences.
Overnight parking security: For those using Thunder Swamp Trailhead as a basecamp, the secure parking is noteworthy. A reviewer stated, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble," while another confirmed, "No one bothered me," indicating a relatively safe overnight experience.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Several free camping areas near Bedminster require permits. Unlike the Appalachian Trail site, Thunder Swamp requires advanced permission for overnight stays.
Slope considerations: Tent campers should note terrain challenges. One camper at Appalachian Trail Campsite 2 advised that "it's a little on the small and sloped side for tent camping," suggesting careful site selection is necessary.
Unmarked sites: Finding designated campsites can be challenging. A camper observed that the Appalachian Trail Campsite is "unmarked when you come to it, but it's the only pretty obvious camping spot on the trail so it's not hard to find."
Tips for camping with families
Water planning: When bringing children to backcountry sites near Bedminster, water management becomes critical. A visitor to Floyd Bennett Field recommended bringing 1 gallon of water per person per day since no potable water sources exist at most dispersed sites.
Site reservations: For family camping, arrive early at first-come, first-served sites. Thunder Swamp Trailhead has limited parking, and as one camper noted, "It's a gravel parking lot," with finite space that fills up on weekends.
Shade availability: When camping with children, shade is essential. A camper at Thunder Swamp Trailhead reported, "Plenty of shade," making it more comfortable for daytime camping with families during summer months when temperatures can exceed 85°F.
Tips from RVers
Parking surface quality: The parking areas at dispersed sites near Bedminster are typically basic. A camper described Thunder Swamp Trailhead as simply "a gravel lot," indicating limited preparation for vehicles beyond basic access.
Size limitations: Large RVs will struggle at most dispersed sites near Bedminster. The parking areas are designed for standard vehicles, not recreational vehicles over 25 feet in length.
Overnight rules: RVers should understand the distinctions between parking and camping. Most trailhead parking near Bedminster technically allows overnight parking for trail access rather than designated camping, so maintain a low profile without setting up camp outside your vehicle.
