Dispersed camping near Mountain Lakes, New Jersey primarily occurs in protected forest areas within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and surrounding state lands. The region's topography features deciduous forest at elevations ranging from 300-1500 feet, with mixed oak-hickory stands dominating the landscape. Winter camping requires additional preparation as temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March, with snowfall accumulations possible at higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking trails: The Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides access to extensive trail systems through Pennsylvania state forest land. "Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," reports one camper, noting there are "tons of hiking" opportunities from this access point. The trailhead serves as both a parking area and potential overnight spot.
Wildlife viewing: Hickok Brook's lakeside setting offers opportunities to observe forest and aquatic species. "Very gorgeous" according to visitors, though camping is limited to "only 3 spots" along the shoreline. The small size means wildlife encounters are common, particularly at dawn and dusk.
Water activities: While camping options are limited near Mountain Lakes itself, nearby Hickok Brook features "beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites" suitable for paddling access. The water access requires a short portage from parking areas as "no motor vehicles [are allowed] beyond where I'm camping."
What campers like
Natural seclusion: Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 offers a "perfect balance of community and space" according to experienced hikers. The site layout accommodates various privacy preferences as "we camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too."
Low traffic: Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides quiet overnight options in a "gravel parking lot" that remains relatively uncrowded. Visitors report "no one bothered me" and describe the atmosphere as "chill for a night," making it suitable for self-contained camping setups.
Hammock camping: The forested sites at Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 feature "good trees for hammocking" according to regular visitors. This adaptation helps overcome the terrain challenges as some areas are "a little on the small and sloped side for tent camping."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Camping on New York state lands including Hickok Brook requires authorization from local authorities. "Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county," advises one camper who had to relocate their site after ranger intervention.
Water scarcity: Water sources are limited at many dispersed sites near Mountain Lakes. At Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, there's "no water nearby," requiring hikers to "stock up on water at Dunnfield creek natural area, or wait until Sunfish pond" which involves "about a 1 mile round trip."
Road conditions: Access to primitive camping areas often requires appropriate vehicles. Hickok Brook access roads present challenges with "very rough roads with huge potholes so good clearance is a must," making the area "not RV friendly" according to visitors.
Wildlife safety: Bear activity necessitates proper precautions at many sites. The Appalachian Trail campsite is "well maintained with bear boxes provided," though campers should still follow food storage protocols in all dispersed camping locations.
Tips for camping with families
Site identification: Many dispersed camping areas lack clear markers. Hickok Brook is described as "small, don't blink you'll miss it," while the Appalachian Trail site is similarly "unmarked when you come to it, but it's the only pretty obvious camping spot on the trail."
Supply planning: Remote locations require bringing all necessities. As one Hickok Brook camper notes, "bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town," though they mention "there is a small town 10 minutes away" (Eldred, NY) for emergency resupply.
Space limitations: During peak seasons, site availability becomes restricted. One visitor observed during a holiday weekend: "It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area." Arriving early or having backup locations is advisable.
Tips from RVers
Parking constraints: Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers a basic "gravel lot" that can accommodate smaller vehicles but lacks amenities. The area provides "plenty of shade" but no services, making it suitable only for self-contained rigs with proper clearance for forest roads.
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