Best Dispersed Camping near Boonton, NJ

Dispersed camping options near Boonton, New Jersey are limited but available within driving distance. The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 in Worthington State Forest offers primitive camping for hikers. This site requires no reservations but serves as the only authorized camping location within the forest. The terrain is somewhat sloped, making it better suited for hammock camping than tent setups. Bear boxes are provided, and the site accommodates both group and secluded camping preferences.

Water access is a significant consideration when planning trips to these sites. The Appalachian Trail campsite has no water source directly on-site. According to reviews, campers must "stock up on water at Dunnfield Creek natural area or wait until Sunfish Pond," though camping at Sunfish Pond itself is prohibited. Hickok Brook in New York State provides lakeside camping but requires hikers to pack in all supplies.

Access to these dispersed sites varies considerably. Hickok Brook features extremely rough roads with large potholes, requiring high-clearance vehicles. Several campers noted it is "not RV friendly" and that "the road is very rough with huge potholes." Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania requires permits for overnight stays. All sites prohibit ground fires, and most have strict regulations regarding pets and alcohol. New York State land requires camping permits obtained from the county ranger's office. These primitive sites typically lack amenities such as toilets, showers, or trash service, requiring strict adherence to Leave No Trace principles.