Dispersed camping near Short Hills, New Jersey requires traveling to nearby areas, as local options are limited. The terrain in this region features rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during daytime, while winter camping faces below-freezing conditions, particularly at higher elevations.
What to do
Hike extensive trail networks: Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania provides access to numerous hiking options. "Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," notes camper Jason R., highlighting the diverse ecosystems accessible from this primitive camping area.
Visit Sunfish Pond: Located near Appalachian Trail camping options, this glacial lake sits at higher elevation. Katharine T. mentions it's "an easy hike about a 1 round trip" from the Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, making it a convenient water source and scenic destination.
Seek out secluded spots: The Appalachian Trail camping areas offer varying degrees of privacy. "We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too," reports Katharine T. about Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, indicating options for both social and solitary camping experiences.
What campers like
Basic but functional facilities: The primitive camping area at Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers minimal amenities but meets essential needs. Benjamin H. describes it simply as "a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me," suggesting it works well for self-contained camping.
Bear safety equipment: Designated backcountry sites provide necessary wildlife protection. Katharine T. notes the Appalachian Trail site is "well maintained w bear boxes provided," eliminating the need to carry specialized food storage equipment.
Hammock-friendly trees: The forest composition supports alternative sleeping arrangements. "Good trees for hammocking," mentions Katharine T., while another camper specified the sloped terrain made hammocks preferable to tents at the backcountry sites.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some dispersed camping areas require advance permissions. Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn represents an urban camping option that requires proper authorization before arrival.
Water availability limitations: Natural water sources are scarce and seasonal. "No water nearby," cautions Renee Z., recommending campers "stock up on water at the Dunnfield creek natural area, or wait until Sunfish pond."
Fire restrictions: Ground fires are prohibited at most backcountry sites in this region. Always check current regulations, as they may change seasonally or based on fire danger conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with space considerations: Some backcountry areas offer more room than others. Katharine T. found that at Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, "there's plenty of space," making it suitable for groups with children.
Prepare for terrain challenges: Topography can affect comfort, especially with young campers. Renee Z. observed the site is "a little on the small and sloped side for tent camping," suggesting families might need to search more carefully for flat spots.
Plan for water carrying: With limited water sources, families need appropriate containers. The hike to water at "Sunfish pond" is described as "easy" but still requires planning for multiple people's needs over your stay duration.
Tips from RVers
Limited vehicle access options: True dispersed camping for RVs near Short Hills is extremely restricted. The Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides one of the few options where vehicles can park overnight, with Benjamin H. noting it's simply "a gravel parking lot" with "plenty of shade."
Consider size limitations: The parking areas at trailheads accommodate only smaller rigs. Standard RVs and trailers will find few suitable dispersed camping locations within a reasonable distance of Short Hills.
Research roadway restrictions: Many forest roads leading to potential dispersed camping have vehicle size and weight limitations. Always verify access routes before attempting to navigate to remote sites with larger vehicles.
