Primitive camping sites and dispersed camping options offer free camping near Port Murray, New Jersey, primarily along sections of the Appalachian Trail. The region sits within the Delaware Water Gap area at elevations ranging from 300-1500 feet, characterized by mixed hardwood forests and ridge-top views. Most sites lack facilities and require campers to pack in water, especially during summer months when seasonal streams may run dry.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail networks: At Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania, campers can access miles of interconnected trails. "Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," notes Jason R. The trailhead provides overnight parking with shade coverage.
Explore scenic overlooks: Visiting ridge-top vistas provides panoramic views of the Delaware River Valley. A camper at Bake Oven Knob describes, "The hike to the overlook is really lovely; short and rocky." This area serves dual purpose as an Appalachian Trail section and day hiking destination.
Lake access camping: Some dispersed sites offer water access for fishing or paddling. Hickok Brook features "Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites," according to Corey, who adds that "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must."
What campers like
Hammock-friendly terrain: The forested landscape provides ample trees for hammock setup at many sites. Renee Z. notes that while the Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 is "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!"
Privacy options: Appalachian Trail Campsite locations offer varying degrees of seclusion based on specific site selection. Many provide buffer zones between campsites for more private experiences, though availability depends on seasonal usage.
Overnight vehicle parking: Several trailheads permit vehicle overnight stays. Benjamin H. describes Thunder Swamp Trailhead as "a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Free camping near Port Murray may require permits depending on location. At Hickok Brook, Gregg T. learned this firsthand: "Where I originally camped was not a spot, according to Ranger. Had to move next to the lake. Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county."
Water planning essential: Water sources are limited or nonexistent at most sites. For the Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, Katharine T. advises "No Water (nearest is sunfish pound- easy hike about a 1 round trip)."
Fire restrictions: Most dispersed camping areas prohibit ground fires. Pack camp stoves for cooking and follow posted regulations, which are strictly enforced particularly during dry seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection considerations: When dispersed camping with children, prioritize sites with flat ground and natural boundaries. Hickok Brook offers only limited suitable spots, as Gregg T. explains: "There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping."
Holiday weekend limitations: Popular weekends see increased competition for limited space. As one camper at Hickok Brook noted about Labor Day weekend: "see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area."
Supply planning: Bake Oven Knob and surrounding areas have minimal services. Dani T. advises: "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." Stock up on supplies before arrival, as the nearest stores may be 10+ miles away.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: High-clearance vehicles are necessary for accessing certain camping areas. Corey from Hickok Brook warns: "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping but you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road."
Small town resources: When dispersed camping near Port Murray, know the locations of nearest supply points. According to Gregg T., "There is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY. Really is a nice quiet place."
Parking limitations: Vehicle size restrictions apply to overnight parking areas. Most primitive camping areas cannot accommodate large rigs, with standard parking spaces suitable only for standard vehicles or small vans.
