Dispersed camping near Denville, New Jersey requires flexible planning due to limited nearby options. Most primitive sites in this region sit at elevations between 400-1,200 feet and experience considerable seasonal variation. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer camping faces high humidity and temperatures averaging 80-85°F between June and August.
What to do
Hiking access only: The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 connects to extensive trail networks. "I gave the site only four stars because there's no water nearby, and the views are only mediocre. Also it's a little on the small and sloped side for tent camping, but I was in a hammock and it was a great place for that," notes Renee Z. from Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2.
Trail exploration: Several multi-day hiking routes connect dispersed camping areas. "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," reports Jason R. who stayed at Thunder Swamp Trailhead.
Water activities: Some sites offer lakeside camping options despite limited amenities. A visitor to Hickok Brook mentioned, "Where I originally camped was not a spot, according to Ranger. Had to move next to the lake." Water access varies significantly by location, with most requiring visitors to pack in their own drinking water.
What campers like
Remote locations: Primitive camping areas provide isolation from developed areas. At Hickok Brook, Gregg T. noted, "Really is a nice quiet place. It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area."
Tree coverage: Most dispersed sites feature wooded surroundings ideal for hammock camping. "Good trees for hammocking," confirms Katharine T. about Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, adding "We had thought there was a shelter (there isn't) but it was fine."
Parking access: Some trailhead areas permit overnight vehicle parking. Benjamin H. describes Thunder Swamp Trailhead as "a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
What you should know
Limited availability: Most dispersed camping areas near Denville offer very few tent sites. "There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping," explains Gregg T. regarding camping at Hickok Brook.
Permit requirements: New York state land requires camping permits. "Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county," advises a Hickok Brook camper.
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage. Katharine T. notes that Appalachian Trail camping areas are "well maintained w bear boxes provided."
Water planning: Nearly all dispersed sites lack potable water sources. A camper at Floyd Bennett Field advises: "Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away."
Tips for camping with families
Preparation for isolation: Families should prepare for complete self-sufficiency. "Stock up on water at the Dunnfield creek natural area, or wait until Sunfish pond," recommends Renee Z. regarding camping along the Appalachian Trail.
Site selection: Choose spots with appropriate terrain for children. One camper noted that while Appalachian Trail sites have "plenty of space," they can be "a little on the small and sloped side for tent camping," which may present challenges for family-sized tents.
Insect protection: Summer camping requires thorough bug protection. Corey from Hickok Brook described the area as "Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites," suggesting families bring appropriate insect repellent.
Tips from RVers
Road condition assessment: High-clearance vehicles are essential for accessing most primitive sites. Corey from Hickok Brook warns: "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping but you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road to put up a small tent somewhere. Very gorgeous but not RV friendly."
Size limitations: Large camping vehicles cannot access most dispersed sites in this region. "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup," a camper noted before discovering site limitations made this impossible.
