Dispersed camping near Branchville, New Jersey encompasses sites situated at various elevations between 400 and 1,200 feet across the tri-state area. The Delaware Water Gap region where many of these sites are located features mixed hardwood forests dominated by oak, maple, and birch trees. Fall temperatures typically range from 40-65°F, making adequate layering essential for overnight stays.
What to do
Hike extensive trail networks: Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides access to multiple interconnected hiking routes. One camper at Thunder Swamp Trailhead noted, "Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh." The trailhead serves as a starting point for day hikes ranging from 2-15 miles depending on which trail segments you connect.
Fish in nearby lakes: Hickok Brook offers lakeside access for fishing enthusiasts. The water body contains several freshwater species including bass and trout. According to one visitor at Hickok Brook, "Had to move next to the lake." Fishing requires a New York state fishing license, obtainable online or at local sporting goods stores.
Wildlife observation: The region supports diverse wildlife including white-tailed deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. Bears are common enough that Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 provides "bear boxes" for food storage, as one camper mentioned: "Well maintained w bear boxes provided."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: The limited capacity at most sites ensures peaceful experiences. A camper at Hickok Brook observed, "There are only 3 spots where we are... Really is a nice quiet place." The limited access helps maintain a sense of remoteness even on holiday weekends.
Hammocking opportunities: Several sites feature suitable tree spacing for hammock camping. One Appalachian Trail camper reported, "Good trees for hammocking," adding "I was in a hammock and it was a great place for that!" Most sites have mature trees with appropriate diameter and spacing for hammock setups.
Overnight parking security: Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers secure overnight vehicle parking. A camper reported, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble." Another mentioned, "It's a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me." This makes it suitable for those seeking a base for multiple day hikes.
What you should know
Limited water access: Water sources are scarce and require planning. At Appalachian Trail campsites, "there's no water nearby," with the nearest source being "Sunfish pond- easy hike about a 1 round trip." Campers must carry all water needed or plan filtration from natural sources.
Permit requirements vary: Camping regulations differ across state lines. At Hickok Brook, one camper learned, "Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county." Permits may be required seasonally or year-round depending on location.
Challenging road access: Some sites have difficult approaches. Hickok Brook features "very rough" roads with "huge potholes so good clearance is a must." As one camper warned, "It's not a good spot for car camping" despite being drive-accessible.
Site identification challenges: Backpacker sites may be unmarked. An Appalachian Trail camper noted, "The site itself 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." Carrying detailed maps is essential.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra water: With no reliable water sources at most sites, families should bring 1-2 gallons per person per day. The Appalachian Trail sites require water planning as one camper advised, "Stock up on water at the Dunnfield creek natural area, or wait until Sunfish pond."
Consider site spacing: Some areas offer options for both community and privacy. At Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, "We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too." This flexibility allows families to choose appropriate spacing from other campers.
Be aware of terrain limitations: Many sites feature uneven ground. One camper described an Appalachian Trail site as "a little on the small and sloped side for tent camping," indicating the need for careful tent placement and proper equipment for families.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: High-clearance vehicles are necessary for accessing most dispersed sites. A camper at Hickok Brook arrived "in my full ton diesel pickup" but cautioned that despite this capable vehicle, "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must."
Size limitations are strict: Large camping vehicles cannot access most dispersed sites. A visitor to Hickok Brook went "thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper" but discovered the area was "not rv friendly."
Consider proximity to supplies: Remote locations require self-sufficiency. One camper at Hickok Brook noted, "It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY." Campers should stock all necessary supplies as convenience stores may be 5-15 miles from camping areas.
