Dispersed camping near Hampton, New Jersey centers primarily on primitive sites along the Appalachian Trail and nearby forest lands. These sites lack amenities and require strict adherence to leave-no-trace principles. Most locations prohibit campfires and require visitors to carry in all supplies including water, as natural sources are limited or require significant hiking to access. The terrain varies from rocky ridgelines to densely wooded areas with occasional overlooks providing views of the surrounding Kittatinny Mountains.
What to do
Hiking to Sunfish Pond: From the Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, campers can access Sunfish Pond via a moderate trail. "No Water (nearest is sunfish pound- easy hike about a 1 round trip)," notes camper Katharine T., indicating the pond serves as both a water source and destination.
Explore ridge overlooks: The rocky terrain near dispersed camping areas provides elevation gains and viewpoints. Near Bake Oven Knob, visitors can take advantage of short but rewarding hikes. One camper describes, "The hike to the overlook is really lovely; short and rocky."
Access backcountry trails: The Thunder Swamp Trailhead connects to extensive hiking options. As Jason R. mentions, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."
What campers like
Natural isolation: Many dispersed sites provide seclusion while still maintaining access to trails. At Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, Katharine T. reports, "We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too."
Hammocking opportunities: The forest canopy at many sites creates ideal conditions for hammock camping rather than tent pitching. "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 one camper about the Appalachian Trail site.
Overnight parking access: For vehicle-based campers, Bake Oven Knob provides convenient options. Dani T. reports, "I've overnighted in my van here a bunch, no problems. There are two large lots. You can park and sleep, or hike in and find a place for a tent."
What you should know
Water planning requirements: Most dispersed sites near Hampton lack reliable water sources. Pack sufficient water or plan routes to access sources. Regarding the Appalachian Trail site, Renee Z. advises, "Stock up on water at the Dunnfield creek natural area, or wait until Sunfish pond. There are lots of signs around Sunfish pond itself that there's no camping allowed."
Bear safety measures: Wildlife precautions are necessary throughout the area. The Appalachian Trail Campsite and nearby locations require proper food storage. One camper notes sites are "well maintained w bear boxes provided," indicating established infrastructure for managing wildlife encounters.
Permit requirements: Some dispersed camping areas require permits for overnight stays. Thunder Swamp Trailhead specifically requires a permit, although several other locations do not. Check regulations before arrival as requirements vary by specific forest management area.
Tips for camping with families
Shelter options: For families camping with children, having shelter backup is valuable. At Bake Oven Knob, Dani T. points out, "There's also a trail shelter about a .5 mile in, but I haven't been to that," providing an alternative to tent camping.
Site selection strategy: When camping with families at Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker 2 Campsite, site selection becomes important. Katharine T. describes it as offering a "perfect balance of community and space," allowing families to choose between more social or secluded experiences.
Trail difficulty awareness: Assess trail difficulty before bringing children. The terrain around Hampton dispersed sites varies significantly. Some trails, like those at Bake Oven Knob, are described as "short and rocky," making them potentially manageable for older children but challenging for younger ones.
Tips from RVers
Parking lot overnight options: For those in smaller RVs or vans, several trailheads permit overnight parking. Benjamin H. describes Thunder Swamp Trailhead simply as "a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me," indicating its suitability for vehicle-based camping.
Limited facilities: RVers should prepare for completely self-contained camping. No dump stations, hookups, or facilities exist at any dispersed sites near Hampton. All locations prohibit generator use and have strict rules about waste management and environmental impact.
Size restrictions: Large RVs cannot access most dispersed camping areas near Hampton. Sites like Thunder Swamp Trailhead and Bake Oven Knob have gravel lots suitable only for smaller vehicles and vans. No designated RV camping exists in the immediate area.
