Best Dispersed Camping near Scotch Plains, NJ
Dispersed camping near Scotch Plains, New Jersey is limited, with only a few designated primitive sites in the surrounding region. The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 in Columbia, New Jersey provides one of the few legal dispersed camping options, located approximately 60 miles from Scotch Plains. This site serves hikers on the Appalachian Trail within Worthington State Forest. Additional dispersed camping can be found at Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania, though this requires longer travel from the Scotch Plains area.
Access to these primitive sites varies by location. The Appalachian Trail campsite requires hiking in, as indicated by signs at Worthington State Forest entrance marking it as the only permitted camping location in that area. No drinking water is available at the site, requiring campers to stock up at Dunnfield Creek Natural Area or Sunfish Pond. The Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania allows drive-in access but requires a permit. Both locations lack amenities such as toilets, showers, or trash service, requiring strict adherence to Leave No Trace principles.
These primitive camping areas provide basic accommodations for overnight stays in natural settings. The Appalachian Trail site features bear boxes and suitable trees for hammock camping, though the ground is somewhat sloped for tent placement. According to one visitor, "There's plenty of space. We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too." The site prohibits ground fires, alcohol, and pets. Another camper noted it offers "a perfect balance of community and space" despite having "no water nearby, and the views are only mediocre." The Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides access to extensive hiking opportunities, with one camper describing the trailhead parking as "chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking."
