Primitive camping near Wantage, New Jersey offers opportunities for solitude in the Kittatinny Mountains, where elevations range between 400-1,600 feet. The region experiences cold winters with occasional heavy snowfall and warm, humid summers, creating seasonal variations in camping conditions. Most dispersed sites in this tri-state area follow specific land management rules that differ between New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania jurisdictions.
What to do
Hiking at Hemlock Ridge: The 80-acre wooded area provides trails for day hiking without the crowds found at more popular destinations. "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," notes camper Dawn M. about Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed.
Explore marshlands: Thunder Swamp offers unique wetland ecosystems worth exploring during your stay. "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," reports Jason R. about his experience at Thunder Swamp Trailhead.
Hammock camping: The forested terrain provides ample trees for hammock setups. Katharine T. writes about the Appalachian Trail site, "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)."
What campers like
Seclusion: The primitive camping areas offer genuine solitude for those seeking to disconnect. "It's 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," explains Dawn M. about her experience at Hemlock Ridge.
Shaded parking: Some dispersed sites provide tree cover for vehicles during hot summer days. Benjamin H. describes Thunder Swamp Trailhead simply as "a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
Lake access: Several sites offer proximity to water features. Gregg T. mentions at Hickok Brook: "Had to move next to the lake. Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county."
What you should know
Permit requirements: New York State lands typically require camping permits. "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," cautions Gregg T. about Hickok Brook.
Limited water sources: Pack sufficient water or plan trips to natural sources. Renee Z. shares about Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2: "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."
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive sites can be challenging. Corey notes about Hickok Brook: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Limited space awareness: Many dispersed sites have restricted capacity. "There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping," reports Gregg T. about Hickok Brook, adding "It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area."
Prepare for insects: Bugs can be problematic in wooded areas, especially near water. Cory D. warns about Hemlock Ridge MUA: "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."
Supply considerations: Remote locations require bringing all necessities. "Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY," advises Gregg T. about camping at Hickok Brook.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle restrictions: Most primitive sites near Wantage are unsuitable for RVs or larger vehicles. Corey explains his experience at Hickok Brook: "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."
Parking limitations: Available spaces for vehicles are extremely limited. Dawn M. notes about Hemlock Ridge: "The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight."
Cell service considerations: Connectivity is minimal or non-existent. Dawn M. mentions Hemlock Ridge has "barely even a signal here," making it important to plan navigation and emergency communications accordingly.
