Best Dispersed Camping near Washington, NJ

Dispersed camping near Washington, New Jersey is primarily concentrated along the Appalachian Trail corridor, with the Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 serving as one of the few legal primitive camping options in the vicinity. Located in Columbia, NJ, this designated site provides basic backcountry camping within the Worthington State Forest. Additional dispersed options extend into nearby Pennsylvania, including the Thunder Swamp Trailhead and Bake Oven Knob areas, where primitive camping is permitted under specific conditions. These sites lack amenities and require campers to be self-sufficient in remote settings.

Access to these primitive sites varies considerably, with most requiring hiking or walking in rather than direct vehicle access. The Appalachian Trail campsite is accessible only by foot, while Thunder Swamp Trailhead permits drive-in access. None of these dispersed areas provide drinking water, requiring campers to carry all necessary water or treat sources from nearby creeks. Permits are required for some locations, particularly Thunder Swamp Trailhead. Notably, fires are not permitted at any of these sites, and alcohol is prohibited. According to one camper, "Stock up on water at the Dunnfield creek natural area, or wait until Sunfish pond," highlighting the importance of water planning when using these sites.

These primitive camping areas provide a true wilderness experience with minimal facilities. The Appalachian Trail site offers what one visitor described as a "perfect balance of community and space" with "plenty of space" including both communal and "secluded spots." Bear boxes are provided at this location, making food storage safer. Bake Oven Knob serves dual purposes as both an overnight spot and access point to hiking trails. One regular visitor noted, "I've overnighted in my van here a bunch, no problems," adding that "the hike to the overlook is really lovely; short and rocky." These areas generally lack facilities such as toilets, trash removal, or picnic tables, reinforcing their status as true backcountry camping options rather than developed sites.