Best Dispersed Camping near Ramsey, NJ

Several dispersed camping options exist within 40-60 miles of Ramsey, New Jersey, with most requiring a hike-in approach. Hemlock Ridge MUA in New York offers free primitive camping in a wooded area approximately 150 feet from the trailhead. The small parking lot accommodates only 4-5 vehicles, and campers should expect no amenities whatsoever. According to one visitor, "There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever and barely even a signal here, but it's quiet and off the beaten path."

The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 near Columbia, New Jersey provides backcountry camping with a 4.5-star rating. This location prohibits fires and pets, requires hiking in, and includes bear boxes. The site lacks water sources, with a reviewer noting "No water (nearest is Sunfish Pond, about a 1-mile round trip)." Hickok Brook in New York features lakeside tent sites accessible via a very rough road requiring high clearance vehicles. Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania offers drive-in access with a permit requirement and is described by a camper as "a gravel parking lot with plenty of shade."

Best Dispersed Sites Near Ramsey, New Jersey (5)

    1. Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Plattekill, NY
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (845) 256-3000

    "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."

    2. Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2

    2 Reviews
    Shawnee on Delaware, PA
    49 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. Hickok Brook

    2 Reviews
    Barryville, NY
    49 miles

    "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."

    "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."

    4. Thunder Swamp Trailhead

    2 Reviews
    Unity House, PA
    49 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."

Show More
Showing results 1-5 of 5 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Ramsey, NJ

6 Reviews of 5 Ramsey Campgrounds


  • R
    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.

  • Corey
    Jun. 17, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites

    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 but you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road to put up a small tent somewhere. Very gorgeous but not rv friendly.

  • Cory D.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2019

    Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    A place to sleep near the gunks

    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. Camping is allowed anywhere 150ft from the trail. Normal LNT rules apply. Bugs are relentless. Many climbers stay there for access to the gunks.

  • Dawn M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2025

    Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    Pretty cool

    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. The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight. There’s no spectacular mountain views from above, but rather a quiet peaceful wooded area & although I only seen/stayed at one camping spot which is literally at about the required 150ft from the road, you can set up your own camp anywhere. I was the only one here & it was a very peaceful & relaxing night

  • Katharine T.
    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!

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Small, don't blink you'll miss it.

    There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY. Really is a nice quiet place. It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area. 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.


Guide to Ramsey

Discover the thrill of dispersed camping near Ramsey, New Jersey, where nature's beauty meets the freedom of the great outdoors. With a variety of options available, you can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Enjoy Scenic Views while Free Camping Near Ramsey

  • The Hickok Brook offers picturesque lakeside tent sites, perfect for those looking to soak in the serene surroundings while enjoying a quiet getaway.
  • For climbers, the Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed provides access to stunning trails and breathtaking views, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • If you're seeking a more secluded experience, the Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 is nestled in Worthington State Forest, providing ample space and beautiful scenery.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Ramsey, New Jersey

  • Always remember to follow Leave No Trace principles, especially at the Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, where camping is allowed anywhere 150 feet from the trail.
  • Be prepared for bugs, particularly at the Hickok Brook, where reviews mention relentless insects during the warmer months.
  • Ensure you bring all necessary supplies, as amenities are limited at places like the Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, which has no water or facilities available.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Hickok Brook

  • The Hickok Brook is a hidden gem with only a few spots available, making it ideal for those looking for a quiet retreat away from the crowds.
  • Access to this site requires a hike-in, so pack accordingly and enjoy the peaceful surroundings as you make your way to your camping spot.
  • With a picnic table available, it’s a great place to enjoy meals outdoors while taking in the natural beauty of the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Ramsey, NJ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Ramsey, NJ is Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed with a 3.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Ramsey, NJ, with real photos and reviews from campers.