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Best Dispersed Camping near Allentown, PA

2 Reviews

The Pocono Mountains region northeast of Allentown, Pennsylvania features primitive backcountry camping options along the Appalachian Trail corridor and within nearby state forests. Designated backpacker sites, such as the Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 in neighboring New Jersey, provide strategic overnight locations for through-hikers and weekend backpackers. Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania offers more accessible dispersed camping with drive-in access. These sites typically lack developed amenities but provide authentic wilderness experiences within 1-2 hours of Allentown. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and surrounding state lands contain most of the region's primitive camping opportunities.

Permits are required at many backcountry sites in the region, particularly those within state forests and along the Appalachian Trail. Campers should prepare for minimal facilities, as most dispersed sites lack drinking water, toilets, and trash collection. One visitor noted, "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." Bear boxes are provided at some locations, but campers should be prepared to properly store food. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with humid summers and potentially harsh winters. Spring brings muddy conditions on trails, while fall offers spectacular foliage but cooler nights.

Hikers appreciate the balance between community and solitude at many sites. "We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too. Well maintained with bear boxes provided. Good trees for hammocking," reported one Appalachian Trail camper. Trailhead parking areas sometimes serve as convenient overnight spots for those seeking quick access to hiking trails. A visitor to Thunder Swamp Trailhead mentioned, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh." Most primitive sites prohibit ground fires, and campers should plan to carry in all water or filter from natural sources. The region's extensive trail networks, including the Thunder Swamp Trail System and the Appalachian Trail, provide excellent day hiking opportunities from established campsites.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Allentown, Pennsylvania (4)

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Allentown, PA

2 Reviews of 4 Allentown Campgrounds

  • R
    Jul. 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.

  • Katharine T.
    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!

Guide to Allentown

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Allentown, Pennsylvania, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Scenic Views for Hikers while free camping near Allentown

Essential Water Sources for dispersed campers

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Allentown, Pennsylvania

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free tent camping near Allentown?

For free tent camping near Allentown, head to Thunder Swamp Trailhead, where you can park overnight at the gravel lot with plenty of shade. This trailhead offers access to extensive hiking trails including the Saw Creek trail leading to a marsh area. It's a peaceful spot where campers report no disturbances while staying overnight. The area provides a convenient base for exploring the surrounding wilderness without any camping fees.

How close is the Appalachian Trail to Allentown dispersed camping areas?

The Appalachian Trail passes within approximately 30-40 miles of Allentown, with several access points available. Bake Oven Knob is one of the closest AT-accessible dispersed camping areas to Allentown. This spot features two large parking lots and serves as both an Appalachian Trail section and a day hiking area. Located on Blue Mountain ridge, it offers a high vantage point in the Appalachian Mountains near Germansville, Pennsylvania, making it a convenient overnight option for AT hikers coming from the Allentown area.

What primitive camping options are available near Allentown?

Near Allentown, the Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 offers true primitive camping. This site has plenty of space with both communal and more secluded spots available. It's well-maintained and equipped with bear boxes for food storage. The area is excellent for hammock camping with numerous suitable trees, though tent sites may be somewhat small and sloped in places. The campsite lacks nearby water sources, so campers should pack in all necessary water. Located in Worthington State Forest, you'll find clear signage directing you to this primitive camping area.

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