Best Dispersed Camping near Mahwah, NJ

Planning a dispersed camping trip near Mahwah? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your New Jersey camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Mahwah, NJ (5)

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Showing results 1-5 of 5 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Mahwah

7 Reviews of 5 Mahwah Campgrounds


  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Small, don't blink you'll miss it.

    There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY. 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. Where I originally camped was not a spot, according to Ranger. Had to move next to the lake. Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county.

  • Corey The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
    Jun. 17, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites

    I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. 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. Very gorgeous but not rv friendly.

  • Katharine T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2
    May. 31, 2022

    Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2

    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. We’ll maintained w bear boxes provided. Good trees for hammocking. We had thought there was a shelter (there isn’t) but it was fine. No ground fires. No Water (nearest is sunfish pound- easy hike about a 1 round trip). Great views!

  • Doc B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park
    Jun. 17, 2021

    Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    A hidden gem...

    99% off people don't even know this area exists. If you want a quiet piece of beautiful forest to truly rough it and go camping for a few days, then this is what you have been looking for. Less then 10 min drive from town, but hiking in and finding a suitable place to make camp has the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service. There is plenty of trails to explore and wildlife to enjoy, especially since these over 900 acres also back up to another huge plot of protected forests. Please enjoy Mother Nature's healing love, and leave the area cleaner than when you arrived. Always let someone know where you are headed and when you plan to return.

  • Cory D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed
    May. 28, 2019

    Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    A place to sleep near the gunks

    This isn't a fancy campsite and has no amenities. There is a small(10 car) parking lot and a trail that runs thru 80 acres of forest. Camping is allowed anywhere 150ft from the trail. Normal LNT rules apply. Bugs are relentless. Many climbers stay there for access to the gunks.

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2
    Jul. 12, 2017

    Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2

    Small but kind of your only option

    I gave the site only four stars because there's no water nearby, and the views are only mediocre. Also 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!

    That being said, as you enter the Worthington State Forest there are signs and hand painted maps indicating that this is the only place you can sleep in the forest. So if this is your timing, this is where you'll be sleeping! The site itself is 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.

    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.



Guide to Mahwah

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Mahwah, New Jersey, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots to unwind and connect with the outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, there's something for everyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Scenic Trails for Dispersed Campers

  • The Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 provides access to stunning views and well-maintained areas, perfect for those who enjoy hiking and exploring nature.
  • Located in Worthington State Forest, this site features bear boxes and ample space for setting up camp, making it a great choice for both community and solitude.
  • While there are no water sources directly at the site, nearby Sunfish Pond offers a scenic hike to refill your supplies.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Mahwah, New Jersey

  • If you're looking for a quiet retreat, consider the Hickok Brook, which offers limited spots and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those wanting to escape the crowds.
  • Be prepared for a hike, as this location requires you to bring all your supplies, including water, since there are no amenities available.
  • Keep in mind that this area can get busy during holidays, so arriving early can help secure a good spot.

Hidden Gems for Nature Lovers

  • The Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park is a lesser-known area that offers a beautiful forest setting, perfect for those wanting to experience nature without the usual crowds.
  • With over 900 acres to explore, this site provides a sense of wilderness while still being close to town, making it convenient for last-minute supplies.
  • Campers can enjoy the freedom of setting up in various locations, but it's essential to follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the area pristine.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Mahwah, NJ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Mahwah, NJ is Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed with a 3-star rating from 1 review.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Mahwah, NJ?

    TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Mahwah, NJ, with real photos and reviews from campers.