Top Free Dispersed Camping near Woodland Park, NJ

Planning a dispersed camping trip near Woodland Park? Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Woodland Park, including photos, reviews, and tips. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Woodland Park, NJ (2)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Woodland Park

2 Reviews of 2 Woodland Park Campgrounds


  • 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!

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



Guide to Woodland Park

Camping near Woodland Park, New Jersey, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakeside spots to family-friendly campgrounds, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails at Worthington State Forest Campground. One visitor noted, "The trails are nice and well marked," making it a great spot for both beginners and seasoned hikers.
  • Fishing: Head to Pickerel Point Campground for some fishing. A camper shared, "The site was well shaded for most of the day," perfect for a relaxing day by the water.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. One reviewer mentioned, "There are a lot of bear warnings here," indicating the rich wildlife in the area.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Beaver Pond Campground remarked, "I enjoy the beach/lakefront, and regularly cleaned bathroom and shower facilities."
  • Privacy: Many campgrounds offer spacious sites. One camper at Clarence Fahnestock State Park said, "Some sites are grouped in open areas. These lack privacy," highlighting the importance of choosing the right spot.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner is a hit with families. A parent noted, "This place is so much fun. My whole family loved the activities."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Be mindful of noise, especially in busy campgrounds. A group at High Point State Park Campground faced eviction due to noise complaints, so keep it down after hours.
  • Site Accessibility: Some sites may require a bit of a hike to access. A camper at Round Valley State Park Campground mentioned, "The hike to get to the campground is a bit long," so be prepared for some walking.
  • Wildlife Precautions: With bears in the area, it’s essential to store food properly. A visitor at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation noted, "There are level padded sites with electric and water," but also mentioned the need for caution with food.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with organized activities. At Camp Taylor Campground, a parent said, "The kids are kids!!! They play in the creek, get dirty, build fires and hike."
  • Spacious Sites: Choose campgrounds that offer larger sites for family gatherings. A camper at Pickerel Point Campground mentioned, "The campsites are very close together," so be sure to pick wisely.
  • Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours to ensure everyone has a good time. A family at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner appreciated the "quiet each night with no noisy ‘bad campers.’"

Tips from RVers:

  • Road Conditions: Be prepared for hilly terrain. A visitor at Camp Taylor Campground advised, "Make sure if you’re towing, you have a good tow vehicle because the hills on the way there are epic."
  • Hookups Availability: Check for electric and water hookups before booking. A camper at Pickerel Point Campground noted, "We had running water and an electric outlet."
  • Space Between Sites: Look for campgrounds that offer space between RV sites. A reviewer at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation mentioned, "The sites are spaced well and have a nice bonus of large fire rings."

Camping near Woodland Park, New Jersey, provides a mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just enjoying the great outdoors, there's plenty to explore!

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