Best Dispersed Camping near Milford, NJ

Several dispersed camping options exist near Milford, New Jersey, primarily along sections of the Appalachian Trail. The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, located on Old Mine Road in Columbia, offers hike-in access and free camping. The site provides bear boxes and suitable trees for hammock camping, though it lacks water sources, fires, and other amenities. A visitor commented, "There's plenty of space. We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too."

Additional primitive camping can be found at nearby locations in Pennsylvania. Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers drive-in access but requires permits. Bake Oven Knob, while technically in Pennsylvania, serves as both a day hiking area and overnight spot. A camper wrote, "I've overnighted in my van here a bunch, no problems. You can park and sleep, or hike in and find a place for a tent." Most dispersed sites in this region prohibit alcohol, fires, and pets, while providing no facilities such as water, toilets, or trash service. Campers should prepare accordingly with all necessary supplies and plan to pack out all waste.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Milford, New Jersey (4)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Milford, NJ

4 Photos of 4 Milford Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Milford, NJ

2 Reviews of 4 Milford Campgrounds


  • R
    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.

  • Katharine T.
    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!


Guide to Milford

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Milford, New Jersey, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, it's the perfect escape for those looking to connect with the great outdoors.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

Essential Hiking Opportunities for Free Camping Near Milford

Unique Camping Experiences for Nature Lovers

  • For those seeking a more secluded experience, the Thunder Swamp Trailhead is a great option, offering a drive-in access point that leads to a variety of dispersed camping opportunities in the surrounding wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Milford, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Milford, NJ is Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Milford, NJ, with real photos and reviews from campers.