Dispersed camping near Wharton, New Jersey presents options primarily concentrated along forested ridgelines between 800-1200 feet elevation. Summer temperatures range from 70-85°F during day and 50-65°F at night, with higher humidity levels than western backcountry areas. Fall camping offers reduced crowds with overnight temperatures dropping to 40-50°F by late October.
What to do
Hike multi-day segments: From Thunder Swamp Trailhead, hikers can access a network of moderate trails with several primitive camping spots. According to Jason R., the area offers "tons of hiking" with convenient "trailhead parking" that serves as a good basecamp for overnight stays.
Explore lake ecosystems: Hickok Brook features small lakeside tent areas nestled among mixed hardwood forests. Gregg T. notes it's "a nice quiet place" but cautions "there are only 3 spots where we are" with very limited capacity, especially during holiday weekends.
Navigate technical terrain: The region's trails often feature rocky, uneven surfaces requiring proper footwear and trekking poles. Benjamin H. mentions that even at Thunder Swamp, you'll find "plenty of shade" at the trailhead, which serves as a good starting point for more challenging backcountry exploration.
What campers like
Privacy options: Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 offers varied camping styles within one area. Katharine T. notes "we camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too," providing flexibility for different social preferences.
Resource management: Responsible food storage systems protect both campers and wildlife. Katharine T. appreciates that the Appalachian Trail campsite is "well maintained with bear boxes provided" and has "good trees for hammocking" to keep gear off the ground.
Natural quiet: Most dispersed sites near Wharton maintain distance from traffic noise and crowds. At Thunder Swamp Trailhead, Jason R. describes the overnight experience as "chill for a night. No trouble," highlighting the peaceful atmosphere even at trailhead parking areas.
What you should know
Vehicle limitations: High-clearance vehicles are essential for reaching some dispersed sites. At Hickok Brook, Corey warns "the road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must" and specifically notes it's "not RV friendly" despite its beauty.
Permit requirements: Many areas require camping permits obtained in advance. Gregg T. emphasizes "need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county" before attempting to camp at Hickok Brook to avoid potential relocation or fines.
Site identification challenges: Some authorized camping areas lack clear signage. At Hickok Brook, Gregg T. cautions it's "small, don't blink you'll miss it" and notes that even experienced campers may mistake non-designated areas for campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Supply planning: No services exist near most dispersed sites, requiring complete self-sufficiency. Gregg T. advises to "bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town" from Hickok Brook, with the nearest supplies in Eldred, NY "10 minutes away" by vehicle.
Space constraints: Family groups should prepare for limited flat terrain at most sites. Corey notes that even with vehicle access near Hickok Brook, "you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road to put up a small tent somewhere," but space remains limited.
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal temperature swings and precipitation patterns. Thunder Swamp areas provide good tree cover, with Benjamin H. noting "plenty of shade" which helps moderate temperature extremes during summer camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Parking limitations: Most dispersed areas prohibit or severely restrict vehicle camping. At Thunder Swamp Trailhead, Benjamin H. describes it simply as "a gravel parking lot" where overnight stays are tolerated but without amenities or designated spaces.
Alternative staging: For families with RVs, consider using established campgrounds as base camps while exploring dispersed areas for day trips. Small vehicles can sometimes navigate to Hickok Brook, but Corey advises against attempting the route with larger vehicles: "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup" but found it unsuitable.
Access routes: Forest roads leading to dispersed camping deteriorate significantly after rainfall. Many routes require additional travel time due to slow speeds necessary for navigating rough terrain when accessing places like Hickok Brook, where "motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping" are not permitted according to Gregg T.
