Several dispersed camping options exist within 40-60 miles of Ramsey, New Jersey. The Delaware Water Gap region provides rustic camping near Ramsey, New Jersey with elevations ranging between 300-1500 feet. Most sites in the area are primitive with limited or no facilities, and campers should prepare for variable terrain with rocky outcroppings common throughout the region.
What to do
Hiking from camp sites: Campgrounds along the Appalachian Trail offer direct access to extensive trail systems. At the Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, camper Katharine T. notes that "We stayed here during our section hike through the DWG on the AT. There's plenty of space... Good trees for hammocking."
Wildlife observation: The wooded areas around Hemlock Ridge MUA support diverse wildlife. Cory D. mentions, "This isn't a fancy campsite and has no amenities. There is a small(10 car) parking lot and a trail that runs thru 80 acres of forest."
Fishing opportunities: Some sites offer access to water bodies. At Hickok Brook, camper Gregg T. reports, "Had to move next to the lake. Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many campers appreciate the quiet nature of these sites. At Thunder Swamp Trailhead, Jason R. shares, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."
Cost effectiveness: Most dispersed sites in the region are free or low-cost. Dawn M. from Hemlock Ridge MUA appreciates that "If you like dispersed camping, like me- this place is good. There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it's quiet & off the beaten path."
Natural setting: The undeveloped nature of these sites appeals to many. Benjamin H. describes Thunder Swamp Trailhead simply as "It's a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some locations require permits. Gregg T. at Hickok Brook advises, "Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county."
Limited parking: Most dispersed sites have minimal parking capacity. Dawn M. points out that at Hemlock Ridge MUA, "The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight."
Water sources: Plan to bring all necessary water. Katharine T. from Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 warns, "No Water (nearest is sunfish pound- easy hike about a 1 round trip)."
Vehicle requirements: Some access roads are challenging. Corey from Hickok Brook cautions, "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 to put up a small tent somewhere."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For families, consider locations with shorter hike-in requirements. Renee Z. notes about the Appalachian Trail site, "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."
Prepare for insects: Bug protection is essential in wooded areas. Cory D. warns about Hemlock Ridge MUA that "Bugs are relentless. Many climbers stay there for access to the gunks."
Bear safety: Some areas require proper food storage. Katharine T. mentions the Appalachian Trail site is "Well maintained w bear boxes provided."
Tips from RVers
High clearance vehicles only: Most dispersed sites near Ramsey are not suitable for RVs. At Hickok Brook, Corey emphasizes, "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping."
Limited amenities: Expect no hookups or services at these rustic camping locations. As Dawn M. states about Hemlock Ridge MUA, "There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here."
Parking considerations: RV camping options are severely limited. Benjamin H. describes Thunder Swamp Trailhead simply as "a gravel parking lot" with "plenty of shade."
