Dispersed camping near Haskell, New Jersey provides outdoor enthusiasts with wilderness sites across the Kittatinny Mountains region at elevations ranging from 400-1,600 feet. The area experiences humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers, making late spring through early fall the optimal camping seasons. Campers should prepare for significant elevation changes on trails leading to permitted camping areas.
What to do
Hiking the Thunder Swamp Trail System: The area offers a 26-mile trail network through dense Pennsylvania forest. At Thunder Swamp Trailhead, one camper reported, "Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh." The gravel parking area serves as a convenient base for overnight stays.
Lakeside camping: Several dispersed sites provide water access for fishing and paddling. At Hickok Brook, one visitor noted, "Small, don't blink you'll miss it. There are only 3 spots where we are." This location offers secluded waterfront camping but requires good navigation skills to locate.
Climbing access: The region serves as a base for rock climbing adventures. Many climbers utilize dispersed camping areas for multi-day trips to nearby formations. The primitive sites provide basic overnight accommodations with no amenities but convenient access to climbing routes.
What campers like
Solitude and quietness: Many dispersed sites offer isolation from crowds. At Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, a camper appreciated that "it's quiet and off the beaten path. The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight."
Tree coverage for hammocks: Sites with mature forests provide good hammock setups. One visitor at Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 found it was "a great place for hammocking" despite being "a little on the small and sloped side for tent camping."
Bear protection infrastructure: Some backcountry sites include wildlife safety features. According to a camper, the Appalachian Trail site is "well maintained with bear boxes provided" making food storage more convenient for overnight hikers traversing the region.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Several areas require advance permits. At Hickok Brook, a camper warned, "Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county." Failure to obtain proper permits can result in fines.
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites have poor maintenance. One Hickok Brook visitor cautioned, "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must."
Campfire regulations: Rules vary significantly between sites. At Floyd Bennett Field, fires are prohibited entirely, while Hemlock Ridge MUA allows campfires with proper containment. Always check current regulations before planning to build a fire.
Tips for camping with families
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack basic amenities for children. At Thunder Swamp Trailhead, a visitor described it simply as "a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me." Families should pack all necessities including water, waste disposal bags, and emergency supplies.
Site selection: Choose areas with enough flat space for family tents. Some campers recommend sites near the Appalachian Trail where "there's plenty of space" with options for both "secluded spots" and more open areas.
Water planning: No reliable water sources exist at most sites. One camper at Appalachian Trail Campsite 2 advised to "stock up on water at Dunnfield Creek natural area, or wait until Sunfish Pond" as "there's no water nearby" at the campsite itself.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed camping areas cannot accommodate larger vehicles. A Hickok Brook visitor explained, "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. It's not a good spot for car camping."
Alternative parking: Some trailheads allow overnight parking for smaller vehicles. Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides a "chill" location where one RVer reported "no trouble" staying overnight in the parking area while accessing nearby trails.
Self-contained necessities: Free camping near Haskell requires complete self-sufficiency. Hemlock Ridge MUA has "absolutely no amenities whatsoever and barely even a signal," requiring RVers to bring all supplies and plan for no hookups or services.
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