Best Dispersed Camping near Clinton, NJ
Dispersed camping near Clinton, New Jersey is limited to several primitive sites primarily along the Appalachian Trail and in nearby Pennsylvania. The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 in Worthington State Forest provides a basic backcountry option near Columbia, NJ. Additional dispersed sites include Thunder Swamp Trailhead and Bake Oven Knob in Pennsylvania, approximately 30-40 miles from Clinton. These areas feature minimal facilities on public lands and require hikers and campers to follow strict regulations regarding wilderness use.
Access to these primitive camping areas varies significantly. The Appalachian Trail site requires hiking in, with no vehicle access directly to the campsite. Thunder Swamp Trailhead features a gravel parking lot with drive-in access that accommodates overnight parking. Bake Oven Knob has two large parking areas where overnight vehicle camping is reportedly tolerated. None of these sites offer drinking water, toilets, or other amenities. Most locations prohibit fires, and permits may be required at certain locations such as Thunder Swamp. Campers must pack in all necessary supplies and pack out all waste.
The camping experience in these areas centers on minimalism and self-sufficiency. Appalachian Trail sites provide bear boxes but limited flat ground for tents, making them better suited for hammock camping. "I gave the site only four stars because there's no water nearby, and the views are only mediocre," noted one camper about the Appalachian Trail site. Thunder Swamp Trailhead serves primarily as an access point for extensive hiking trails, with one visitor describing it as "chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking." Bake Oven Knob combines overnight options with scenic day hiking opportunities, offering rocky terrain and notable views along the Appalachian Mountains. According to one visitor who frequently stays there, "The hike to the overlook is really lovely; short and rocky."
