Best Dispersed Camping near Haskell, NJ
Dispersed camping near Haskell, New Jersey centers primarily on the Appalachian Trail corridor and surrounding public lands. Several primitive sites exist within the region, including the Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 near Columbia, New Jersey. This hike-in site serves as one of the few designated dispersed camping locations in Worthington State Forest. Additional options include Hickok Brook in New York and Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania, both within reasonable driving distance from Haskell. Hemlock Ridge Multiple Use Area in New York also permits dispersed camping, with sites required to be at least 150 feet from established trails.
Access to these dispersed sites varies considerably. The Appalachian Trail campsite requires hiking in, with no vehicle access available. Thunder Swamp Trailhead allows drive-in access, though roads may have rough conditions with significant potholes requiring vehicles with good clearance. Most sites lack amenities such as drinking water, toilets, or trash service. Fire regulations differ between locations - fires are prohibited at the Appalachian Trail site but permitted at Hemlock Ridge MUA. Camping permits are required at Thunder Swamp Trailhead and for camping on New York state land at Hickok Brook. Standard Leave No Trace principles apply throughout these areas.
These primitive camping areas provide basic accommodations for those seeking a minimalist outdoor experience. The Appalachian Trail site features bear boxes and suitable trees for hammock camping. According to one visitor, "There's no water nearby, and the views are only mediocre," though the site works well for hammock camping despite being somewhat small and sloped for tents. At Hemlock Ridge MUA, a camper noted it has "absolutely no amenities whatsoever and barely even a signal here, but it's quiet and off the beaten path." Hickok Brook offers lakeside tent sites described as "beautiful but buggy" with very rough access roads featuring "huge potholes" that require good vehicle clearance. These areas primarily serve hikers, climbers accessing nearby features like the Gunks climbing area, and those seeking free, basic overnight options in the region.
