Best Dispersed Camping near Bernards, NJ

Dispersed camping near Bernards, New Jersey exists primarily along the Appalachian Trail corridor, with designated backpacker campsites serving as the main option for primitive camping. The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 provides a basic camping experience for hikers traversing this section of the historic long-distance trail. Thunder Swamp Trailhead in nearby Pennsylvania offers an alternative dispersed camping location, though with different regulations and access considerations.

These primitive camping areas have significant restrictions. The Appalachian Trail site prohibits alcohol, fires, and pets, with no drinking water available on-site. Camping is hike-in or walk-in only, with no vehicle access to the site itself. Bear boxes are provided for food storage, but campers must carry in all supplies and water. Thunder Swamp Trailhead allows drive-in access but requires permits for overnight stays. Neither location offers amenities such as toilets, trash collection, or drinking water, maintaining their primitive nature.

Campers report varying experiences at these dispersed sites, with the Appalachian Trail location receiving positive feedback for its balance of community and seclusion. The terrain provides both social and private camping spaces with good hammocking options. Water sources require planning, with the nearest water at Sunfish Pond approximately a half-mile hike from the site. Thunder Swamp Trailhead serves primarily as a gravel parking area with shade that connects to extensive hiking trails. "It's a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me," notes one visitor, while another mentions the "tons of hiking" available on connected trails such as Saw Creek trail.