Best Dispersed Camping near New Providence, NJ

Dispersed camping options near New Providence, New Jersey include the Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 in Columbia, approximately 60 miles from New Providence. This free hike-in site provides bear boxes but lacks water sources and prohibits ground fires. The nearest water is at Sunfish Pond, about a mile round trip. The campsite offers a mix of communal and secluded spots suitable for hammock camping on somewhat sloped terrain.

Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania presents another dispersed option, roughly 65 miles from New Providence. This area requires permits and features a gravel parking lot with drive-in access. While primarily serving as a trailhead, overnight parking appears tolerated. A camper noted, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble." The location provides access to numerous hiking trails, including the Saw Creek trail leading to marsh areas. Both sites maintain strict regulations with no facilities, requiring self-sufficient camping preparation.

Map showing campgrounds near New Providence, New Jersey

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Best Dispersed Sites Near New Providence, New Jersey (3)

1. Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, NY
Be the first to review!
Queens, NY
28 miles
2. Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2
2 Reviews
Shawnee on Delaware, PA
41 miles
Website
"I gave the site only four stars because there's no water nearby, and the views are only mediocre."

"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!"

3. Thunder Swamp Trailhead
2 Reviews
Unity House, PA
47 miles
"Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."

"Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near New Providence, NJ

4 Photos of 3 New Providence Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near New Providence, NJ

2 Reviews of 3 New Providence Campgrounds

R
Renee Z.
Scout
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.
Guide
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 New Providence

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near New Providence, New Jersey, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of options available, campers can enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors while exploring the scenic landscapes.

Dispersed campers should check out Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2

This site offers a unique experience with plenty of space for campers, including secluded spots for those seeking solitude. Check it out at Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near New Providence, New Jersey

Be sure to stock up on water before heading to your site, as the nearest water source is a hike away, making planning essential for a comfortable stay at Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2.

Scenic views for dispersed campers

While the views at some sites may not be the most breathtaking, the experience of camping in a well-maintained area like Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 compensates with its peaceful atmosphere and good trees for hammocking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near New Providence, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near New Providence, NJ is Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, NY with a 0-star rating from 0 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near New Providence, NJ, with real photos and reviews from campers.