Dispersed camping options around Greenwich, New Jersey focus primarily on primitive sites along the Appalachian Trail corridor and nearby forest areas. The Delaware Water Gap region sits at elevations ranging from 300 to 1,600 feet with deciduous forest cover and moderate humidity throughout summer months. Rustic camping near Greenwich requires preparation for no-amenity conditions and knowledge of strict regulations governing backcountry use.
What to do
Hiking connections: Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers extensive trail access with one visitor noting, "Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh" and describing the experience as "chill" with "tons of hiking" opportunities. This gravel lot serves as both overnight parking and trailhead access to the Thunder Swamp Trail System.
Rock scrambling: The Bake Oven Knob area combines camping opportunities with geological features. As camper Dani describes, "The hike to the overlook is really lovely; short and rocky." This location serves both day hikers and overnight visitors seeking primitive Bake Oven Knob camping experiences.
Water conservation planning: With no reliable water sources at most dispersed sites, visitors must plan ahead. Campers should carry sufficient water or research seasonal water sources before arrival. The hike to water sources like Sunfish Pond requires additional time and energy beyond campsite setup.
What campers like
Hammock-friendly terrain: While tent sites can be limited or sloped at some locations, many dispersed sites offer excellent hammock options. Katharine notes the Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 has "good trees for hammocking" making it ideal for those using suspended sleeping systems.
Bear safety infrastructure: Several designated sites provide critical wildlife protection. Designated backpacker sites include "bear boxes provided" according to Katharine, allowing campers to properly store food away from wildlife in compliance with regional regulations.
Balance of community and solitude: The social aspect of dispersed camping varies by location. At designated AT sites, campers appreciate that "there's plenty of space" with options to camp "nearer to others" or find "secluded spots" depending on preference for social interaction or privacy.
What you should know
No ground fires permitted: Fire regulations are strictly enforced throughout dispersed camping areas near Greenwich. Campers must use elevated cooking systems like backpacking stoves instead of ground fires.
Permit requirements vary: Some dispersed sites require advance permits while others don't. The Thunder Swamp Trailhead area requires permits for overnight stays, but enforcement levels vary with one visitor noting "no one bothered me" during their stay.
Water planning essential: No dispersed sites offer drinking water. The nearest water source for AT campers requires "about a 1 mile round trip" hike to Sunfish Pond according to reviews, and this water still requires treatment before consumption.
Site identification challenges: Many primitive sites lack obvious signage. One camper noted their site was "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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible options: For families with young children, parking-adjacent sites minimize carrying gear long distances. At the Bake Oven Knob area, "There are two large lots. You can park and sleep, or hike in and find a place for a tent."
Pack extra water: Children often consume more water than adults relative to size. With no water sources at most sites, families should calculate 2-3 liters per person per day minimum, plus additional for cooking and cleaning.
Utilize shelter proximity: Some areas feature Appalachian Trail shelters near camping zones. One camper notes, "There's also a trail shelter about a .5 mile in" from certain parking areas, providing emergency backup options during inclement weather.
Tips from RVers
Trailhead overnight parking: Some trailhead parking areas permit overnight stays in self-contained vehicles. Jason describes the Appalachian Trail Campsite experience as "Trailhead parking was chill for a night" making it suitable for van camping or small RVs.
Limited services: No rustic camping areas near Greenwich offer hookups, dump stations, or other RV amenities. All vehicles must be fully self-contained with sufficient water, power, and waste storage for the duration of stay.
Size restrictions apply: Only small to medium recreational vehicles can access these areas. Benjamin notes one location is simply a "gravel parking lot" with "plenty of shade" but without designated spaces or pull-through options required for larger rigs.
