Dispersed camping options near Netcong, New Jersey are primarily located in surrounding state forests and wilderness areas at elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet. Winter temperatures in the region often drop below freezing from December through February, with summer highs averaging 82-86°F. Several primitive camping areas within a 1-2 hour drive of Netcong require campers to be entirely self-sufficient.
What to do
Hiking connectivity: The Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides access to extensive trail networks. "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," notes Jason R. about this Thunder Swamp Trailhead location.
Hammock camping: Several dispersed sites offer good tree spacing for hammock setups rather than tent platforms. At Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, one camper noted it was "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!"
Lake exploration: Hickok Brook offers lakeside primitive camping with opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. "There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping," reports Gregg T., emphasizing the site's secluded nature.
What campers like
Solitude with options: Campers appreciate the balance between community and isolation. "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," notes Katharine T. about the Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2.
Overnight parking: Some locations permit overnight stays in parking areas. Benjamin H. describes Thunder Swamp Trailhead as "a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
Natural settings: Rustic camping near Netcong offers undeveloped environments. "Very gorgeous but not RV friendly," mentions Corey about Hickok Brook, highlighting its natural beauty despite limited accessibility.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many dispersed sites require specific vehicles or hiking. "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must," warns Corey about Hickok Brook, indicating high-clearance vehicles are necessary.
Limited capacity: Most dispersed camping areas have very few established sites. "It's a small and sloped side for tent camping," notes one visitor about Appalachian Trail sites, while another describes Hickok Brook as "Small, don't blink you'll miss it."
Permit requirements: New York State land requires camping permits. "Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county," advises Gregg T., who learned this after being asked to relocate his campsite.
Water planning: Water sources may be distant from campsites. One camper advises to "Stock up on water at the Dunnfield creek natural area, or wait until Sunfish pond," noting there's "no water nearby" at the camping area itself.
Tips for camping with families
Location verification: Always confirm exact camping locations before setting up. "Where I originally camped was not a spot, according to Ranger. Had to move next to the lake," shares Gregg T., highlighting the importance of verifying designated camping areas.
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "Well maintained w bear boxes provided," notes Katharine T. about the Appalachian Trail Campsite, a critical amenity for family safety.
Supply planning: No services exist at these remote locations. "Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY," advises one camper, emphasizing the need for complete self-sufficiency.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Primitive camping near Netcong is unsuitable for most recreational vehicles. "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup... It's not a good spot for car camping," warns Corey about the challenging terrain at Hickok Brook.
Alternative arrangements: RVers seeking rustic camping near Netcong must consider tent camping instead. "You could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road to put up a small tent somewhere," suggests one reviewer, noting that even with a capable vehicle, traditional RV camping isn't practical at most dispersed sites.
