Dispersed camping near Blairstown, New Jersey extends beyond the immediate Delaware Water Gap area into parts of Pennsylvania and New York. This region features elevations ranging from 300 to 1,600 feet with moderately humid continental climate patterns. Summer nights typically remain above 55°F while daytime temperatures average in the high 70s to mid-80s, creating favorable conditions for primitive camping from May through October when most backcountry sites are accessible.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: At Bake Oven Knob, visitors can access both overnight camping and day hiking trails. "This spot is both part of the Appalachian Trail and a day hiking area for the Bake Oven Knob, which is a high point on the Blue Mountain ridge of the Appalachian Mountains near Germansville, Pennsylvania," notes camper Dani T.
Wildlife viewing: The Hickok Brook area provides opportunities to observe local wildlife around its small lake. Seasonal variations affect wildlife activity, with spring and early fall offering the best viewing conditions before mosquitoes become problematic. "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," reports Gregg T.
Trail connections: The Thunder Swamp Trailhead serves as an access point to extensive hiking networks. "Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," mentions Jason R., highlighting the interconnected trail system available to overnight campers.
What campers like
Hammock-friendly terrain: The elevated campsite areas feature adequate tree spacing for hammock setup. Campers frequently note this benefit when tent spaces are limited or sloped.
Natural solitude: Many sites offer genuine backcountry experiences with minimal fellow campers most weeknights. At Thunder Swamp Trailhead, one visitor mentioned, "It's a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
Bear management resources: Some designated sites like Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 include important safety infrastructure. "We'll maintained w bear boxes provided," notes Katharine T., highlighting this crucial amenity for proper food storage in bear country.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Regulations vary by location and state. For New York state lands specifically, "Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county," advises Gregg T. from Hickok Brook.
Access limitations: Road conditions restrict vehicle types at certain locations. "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," warns Corey about Hickok Brook.
Fire regulations: Most dispersed sites in this region prohibit ground fires. Campers must use alternative cooking methods such as camp stoves. This restriction applies year-round regardless of weather conditions.
Water planning: Water sources are scarce and seasonal at many locations. Carrying sufficient water supplies is essential as natural sources may be unavailable or require treatment. At many sites, the nearest refill options require significant hiking or driving distances.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose areas with more level terrain when camping with children. Some sites offer better options than others for family setups.
Accessibility considerations: For families with young children, consider the hiking distance required to reach camping areas. Some locations require lengthy walks that may challenge younger campers.
Limited facilities: Most sites lack restroom facilities. Families should prepare accordingly with portable waste management solutions and appropriate education for children about backcountry sanitation practices.
Campground capacity: At Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, the area offers "perfect balance of community and space. We stayed here during our section hike through the DWG on the AT. There's plenty of space. We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too," according to Katharine T.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most dispersed camping near Blairstown prohibits or severely limits RV access. At Hickok Brook, one RVer learned this firsthand: "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup... Very gorgeous but not rv friendly."
Overnight parking options: For those in smaller, self-contained vans, some trailhead parking areas permit overnight stays. "I've overnighted in my van here a bunch, no problems," reports Dani T. about Bake Oven Knob, which offers "two large lots. You can park and sleep, or hike in and find a place for a tent."
