Primitive camping near Middletown, New Jersey centers primarily on the Appalachian Trail corridor within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The region sits at the intersection of three states, creating limited but diverse backcountry opportunities across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York. Most dispersed camping locations in this area prohibit fires and require campers to pack out all waste, with many sites located at elevations between 800-1500 feet.
What to do
Hiking the Thunder Swamp Trail System: The Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers access to multiple trail loops through Pennsylvania forestland. "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," notes Jason R.
Lakeside camping at Hickok Brook: For those willing to make the journey to New York state, Hickok Brook provides waterfront primitive camping. The location requires high-clearance vehicles and preparation. Corey mentions, "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."
Hammock camping on the AT: The terrain at many primitive sites makes hammock camping preferable to tent setups due to uneven ground. The backpacker sites along the Appalachian Trail corridor accommodate hammocks with suitable trees.
What campers like
Solitude mixed with community: The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 balances social and private camping experiences. Katharine T. shares, "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."
Bear safety infrastructure: Designated primitive sites on the AT provide important wildlife protection measures. "Well maintained w bear boxes provided. Good trees for hammocking," reports Katharine T., highlighting the practical amenities that enhance safety.
Overnight trailhead parking: The simple parking lot at Thunder Swamp Trailhead serves basic overnight needs for hikers. Benjamin H. comments, "It's a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
What you should know
Water scarcity: Most primitive sites near Middletown lack reliable water sources. Renee Z. reports about the AT campsite, "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!"
Permit requirements: New York state land requires camping permits. Gregg T. at Hickok Brook learned this firsthand: "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."
Limited legal options: Dispersed camping in this region is strictly regulated with camping prohibited in many areas. Signs clearly mark where camping is allowed. Renee Z. notes, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Pick sites with visual markers: Children can easily lose orientation in wilderness settings. The Appalachian Trail site works well because, as Renee Z. explains, "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."
Plan water carries carefully: When camping with children, water needs increase substantially. For the AT site, Katharine T. advises, "No Water (nearest is sunfish pound- easy hike about a 1 round trip)."
Limited camping spots: Groups with multiple tents should arrive early. Gregg T. warns about 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."
Tips from RVers
No suitable RV options: True primitive camping near Middletown does not accommodate recreational vehicles. Even sites with drive-up access have significant limitations. Corey at Hickok Brook advises, "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."
Supply planning: For all primitive sites, no services exist within immediate walking distance. "Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY," recommends Gregg T.
Holiday congestion: Primitive sites fill quickly during peak periods and holidays. Plan accordingly, especially at sites with limited capacity. Gregg notes, "It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area."
