Best Dispersed Camping near Succasunna, NJ

Dispersed camping near Succasunna, New Jersey includes several primitive options within driving distance, primarily in neighboring states. The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 in Columbia, New Jersey provides a hike-in camping area along the famous trail. Additional options include Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania and Hickok Brook in New York, both offering primitive camping experiences without developed facilities. These sites represent the closest dispersed camping opportunities to Succasunna, as New Jersey has limited public lands that permit free camping.

Access conditions vary significantly between sites. The Appalachian Trail campsite requires hiking in with no vehicle access, making it suitable only for backpackers. Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers drive-in access but requires a permit. Hickok Brook features a rough access road with large potholes requiring high-clearance vehicles. Most sites lack basic amenities such as drinking water, toilets, or trash service. Fire restrictions apply at some locations, with the Appalachian Trail site prohibiting ground fires completely. Bear boxes are provided at the AT site, but campers must carry in all water and supplies.

These primitive camping areas offer varying experiences based on location and terrain. The Appalachian Trail site provides good hammocking opportunities but limited tent space due to sloped ground. According to one visitor, "There's no water nearby, and the views are only mediocre," though bear boxes and sufficient space for multiple campers are available. Hickok Brook features lakeside tent sites with limited parking options. "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping," notes one camper. Thunder Swamp Trailhead serves as a convenient overnight spot with access to extensive hiking trails, including the Saw Creek trail leading to marsh areas.