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Top Free Dispersed Camping near Bethlehem, PA

2 Reviews

Looking for the best Bethlehem dispersed camping? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Search nearby dispersed campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Map showing campgrounds near Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Best Dispersed Sites Near Bethlehem, PA (2)

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Bethlehem

2 Reviews of 2 Bethlehem Campgrounds

  • Katharine T.
    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!

  • R
    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 Bethlehem

Camping near Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds nearby, you can enjoy nature while making lasting memories with family and friends.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Hickory Run State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The hiking in the area was gorgeous and pet friendly," making it a great spot for families with furry friends.
  • Fishing: At French Creek State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing in the lake. A visitor shared, "The scenery was still in full effect," highlighting the beautiful surroundings while you cast your line.
  • Biking: The trails around Tobyhanna State Park Campground are perfect for biking. One camper noted, "We rode our mountain bikes around the 5-mile trail around the lake," which is a fun way to see the area.

What campers like:

  • Spacious sites: Campers at Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park appreciate the privacy. One review stated, "I can’t believe how quiet it is here. Our site is wooded and very private."
  • Clean facilities: Many visitors enjoy the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at Hickory Run State Park Campground said, "The bathroom facilities were clean, the hiking in the area was gorgeous."
  • Family-friendly atmosphere: Campers at Blue Rocks Family Campground love the family-oriented vibe. One guest mentioned, "Very family-oriented and a great place for a weekend getaway in the woods!"

What you should know:

  • Alcohol policies: Some campgrounds, like Hickory Run State Park Campground, do not allow alcohol. A visitor noted, "If you’re looking for a nice peaceful getaway from the city to quietly enjoy nature... this is not it."
  • Site proximity: Campers at Locust Lake State Park Campground mentioned that sites can be close together. One review stated, "The sites are spaced pretty well but are not level at all."
  • Seasonal access: Many campgrounds, like Worthington State Forest Campground, are only open from April to December. A camper shared, "If you want to be away from everyone... stay in C27," indicating the need to plan your visit.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities. At Camp Taylor Campground, one family said, "The kids immediately took to exploring the creek and woods behind our campsite."
  • Choose spacious sites: Opt for campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A reviewer at Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park mentioned, "The bathrooms are clean and overall a wonderful experience."
  • Plan for quiet hours: Many campgrounds enforce quiet hours, which can help families enjoy peaceful nights. A visitor at Tobyhanna State Park Campground noted, "Quiet hours were strictly enforced, which we appreciated."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site accessibility: Make sure your RV can fit in the designated sites. A camper at French Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "The paved parking spot was tight but a short walk down to the spacious fire pit picnic table area."
  • Look for electric hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. A reviewer at Hickory Run State Park Campground said, "Mix of electric and non-electric sites."
  • Plan for water access: Some campgrounds may not have water hookups, so be prepared. A visitor at Tobyhanna State Park Campground noted, "No water hookups but a water station is on site."

Camping near Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a family adventure or a peaceful retreat in nature.

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