Dispersed camping sites near Picatinny Arsenal are found primarily in forested state lands spanning New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York. The region features elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet with typical summer temperatures between 70-85°F and winter temperatures often below freezing. Most sites require visitors to be entirely self-sufficient with no amenities or services available.
What to do
Hiking trail connections: Camping at Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 provides direct access to extensive trail networks. "We stayed here during our section hike through the DWG on the AT," notes Katharine T., mentioning the easy one-mile round trip to Sunfish Pond.
Lake activities: At Hickok Brook, campers can enjoy lakeside recreation. "Really is a nice quiet place," reports Gregg T., though he cautions space is limited, especially during holiday weekends when campers "try to cram in to the very limited camping area."
Nature observation: The marshlands accessible from Thunder Swamp offer wildlife viewing opportunities. As Jason R. describes, "Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," making it suitable for casual day hikes from your camping location.
What campers like
Solitude and peace: Free camping near Picatinny Arsenal offers quiet experiences away from crowds. At Thunder Swamp Trailhead, Benjamin H. noted simply, "No one bothered me," highlighting the undisturbed nature of these locations.
Hammock camping options: The Appalachian Trail site features "Good trees for hammocking" according to Katharine T., making it ideal for hammock campers looking for no-cost camping near Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey.
Natural shade: Several locations offer natural protection from the elements. Benjamin H. points out that Thunder Swamp Trailhead has "Plenty of shade," beneficial during summer months when temperatures can climb into the 80s.
What you should know
Limited capacity: Many dispersed sites can accommodate only a few tents or campers at once. Katharine T. notes that while the Appalachian Trail site has "plenty of space" with "secluded spots," other locations like Hickok Brook are more restrictive with "only 3 spots."
Road conditions: Access roads to some sites can be challenging. Corey warns about Hickok Brook: "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must," making high-clearance vehicles necessary for certain locations.
Permit requirements: Regulations vary by location and jurisdiction. Gregg T. learned this firsthand: "Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county," after being informed by a ranger that his chosen spot "was not a spot."
Tips for camping with families
Water planning: No drinking water is available at dispersed sites, requiring careful preparation. For the Appalachian Trail site, Renee Z. advises to "Stock up on water at the Dunnfield creek natural area, or wait until Sunfish pond," necessitating water carriers for family use.
Bear safety: Some areas require proper food storage. Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 is "Well maintained w bear boxes provided," according to Katharine T., making it more suitable for families concerned about wildlife encounters.
Limited facilities: There are no toilets or waste disposal options at these locations. Gregg T. emphasizes to "Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town," with the nearest services in Eldred, NY being "10 minutes away" from Hickok Brook.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Large RVs cannot access most dispersed camping areas near Picatinny Arsenal. At Hickok Brook, Corey discovered: "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup...not a good spot for car camping...Very gorgeous but not rv friendly."
Parking limitations: Even truck campers face challenges at most locations. Corey further explains that while at Hickok Brook "you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road," options remain extremely limited for anything beyond tent camping.
Trailhead parking: For those with smaller vehicles, Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers basic overnight options. Jason R. described it as "Trailhead parking was chill for a night," making it one of the few locations where vehicle-based camping is somewhat feasible.
