Tent camping in Sparrow Bush, New York gives visitors access to the northern reaches of the Delaware Water Gap region where New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania converge. The area sits at approximately 400-600 feet elevation with terrain characterized by forested ridges, rocky outcroppings, and riverbank campsites. Summers typically reach 80-85°F while spring and fall temperatures can drop to 40-50°F at night, requiring campers to pack additional layers even during warmer months.
What to do
Paddle to island campsites: Access Namanock Island by kayak or canoe about 4 miles downstream from Milford Beach. Campers must bring all supplies as the island has only basic fire rings and primitive toilets. "During the 2021 season has brought a few minor but very important changes to the island. There are now only 3 approved sites on the entire island, eliminating 3 or 4 smaller sites that are regularly used by the public," notes reviewer John B.
Waterfall hikes: Pack additional footwear for exploring nearby falls accessible from riverside campsites. From Sandyston Boat In Campsites, "Within minutes on the Pennsylvania side of the river you can hike to Raymondskill Falls, (one of many in easy walking distance), as well as search for abandoned/forgotten homes and mills, (some of which date back to the 1700's), or try your luck at fossil and artifact hunting," according to John B.
Backpacking connections: Multiple camping areas provide direct trail access for longer hikes. "Steam Mill Campground connects directly to the Blue Loop trail, providing either an easy walk along the stream or an easy/moderate hike that connects to the AT with views at Sunrise Mountain. I made a fairly easy 9-mile loop this time," reports Kristan V.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The remote location provides exceptional stargazing from island sites. "The island is situated in a way that once darkness falls there are no lights to be seen in either direction, up or down river. You are camped on the side of the island that views Pennsylvania's shore. Now, no lights means an incredible view of the night sky," describes a camper at Namanock Island.
Weekday solitude: Visit during weekdays for maximum privacy at most campsites. "I have now taken my packraft to the island twice and have had a fantastic trip each time! I have only ever gone during the week so I have not had any issue securing one of the four available sites but would recommend getting their earlier if you intend to go during the weekend," advises Derek W.
Creek access: Many sites offer direct water access beyond the main river. At Jenny Jump State Forest, campers enjoy "nice spacious campgrounds close to beautiful hiking trails. It's also close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany. The campgrounds and bathrooms were clean and well kept," according to Fransheska A.
What you should know
Bear precautions: Bears frequent the area, requiring proper food storage at all camping locations. At Steam Mill Campground, "There are bears in this area, and while I've not seen one in the campground, I have seen them on the trails while staying here. I store my food in my car overnight and toss garbage bags in the dumpster nightly as well," advises a camper.
Campsite access challenges: Reaching some campsites requires navigating steep terrain. At Sandyston Canoe Camping, "The other downside to these sites is the river to camp journey. Due to fluctuating water levels all of the islands that are used for camping have a cut wall cliff style approach, but these sites have a very steep and above average height to the shoreline making unloading both more tiring and more of a hazard than I prefer."
Water planning: River sites require filtered water or bringing your own supply. "This is primitive camping, so no facilities for waste, water, or anything that you did not pack in with you," warns a camper about riverside camping.
Tips for camping with families
Select sites with bathroom access: Some campgrounds offer more facilities than others. At Jenny Jump State Forest, "The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog. However, we didn't mind as it was so private we felt like we had the entire Park to ourselves. The bathroom/shower was only a few steps away which was convenient and clean," reports Kelsey K.
Consider cabin alternatives: For families new to tent camping near Sparrow Bush, shelters provide comfort with outdoor access. "The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds(two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch. Even compared to our glamping this was luxury!!"
Check site terrain: Some tent sites have challenging terrain for setup. "The sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks," notes a camper about Jenny Jump State Forest.
Tips from RVers
Small trailers only: Access roads limit RV size at most campgrounds. At Elks Brox Memorial Park, "I read a previous review that stated small cars stay away. I have a Nissan rogue and made it in no problem. It's .8 miles in on the right. I would not drive an RV in here except maybe a small type trailer," advises Gregg T.
Solar limitations: Dense tree cover impacts solar charging at most sites. "Drawback solar is pretty much out," notes a reviewer about camping in the area's wooded sites.
Electricity options: Most tent camping areas near Sparrow Bush don't offer hookups. For those needing power, some campgrounds have limited electric sites, though they book quickly in summer months.
