Best Dispersed Camping near Sussex, NJ

Are you planning a dispersed camping trip to Sussex? We've got you covered. With The Dyrt, it's easy to find peaceful dispersed camping near Sussex. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Sussex's most popular destinations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Sussex, NJ (4)

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Showing results 1-4 of 4 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Sussex

5 Reviews of 4 Sussex Campgrounds


  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
    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.

  • Corey The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
    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.

  • Katharine T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2
    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!

  • Cory D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed
    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.

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2
    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.


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Guide to Sussex

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Sussex, New Jersey, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you can enjoy the great outdoors while embracing the freedom of camping without designated sites.

Dispersed campers should check out Hickok Brook

  • Located in New York, Hickok Brook offers a quiet retreat with only a few spots available, making it perfect for those seeking solitude.
  • Access is via a hike-in or walk-in, so be prepared to carry your gear as there are no motor vehicles allowed beyond the camping area.
  • This site features picnic tables, allowing for a comfortable outdoor dining experience amidst nature.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Sussex, New Jersey

  • When visiting the Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, remember that there are no amenities like water or toilets, so plan accordingly.
  • This site is free and does not require a permit, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious campers looking for a simple experience.
  • Be mindful of the no-fire policy and stock up on water at nearby locations like Sunfish Pond before heading to your campsite.

Enjoying nature while free camping near Sussex

  • For those who love hiking, Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides access to beautiful trails and is ideal for those who want to explore the surrounding wilderness.
  • If you're looking for a safe and clean place to rest, the Rest Area I-84 is a great option, especially for solo travelers, as it offers a well-maintained environment.
  • The Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed is perfect for climbers heading to the nearby Gunks, providing a basic camping experience with the freedom to set up anywhere within the designated area.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Sussex, NJ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Sussex, NJ is Hickok Brook with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Sussex, NJ, with real photos and reviews from campers.