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Best Dispersed Camping near Carbondale, PA

5 Reviews

Dispersed camping options near Carbondale, Pennsylvania include several primitive sites within driving distance. Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania requires permits and offers drive-in access. Nearby in New York, Hickok Brook provides free lakeside tent sites with picnic tables, though access requires navigating rough roads with significant potholes. High-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended. Beals Pond State Forest in New York allows both tent and RV camping with pet-friendly policies, but winter access is limited due to unmaintained roads.

The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite in New Jersey provides hike-in tent sites approximately 60 miles from Carbondale. This site features bear boxes and suitable trees for hammock camping. According to reviews, "there's no water nearby" at this location, so campers must "stock up on water at Dunnfield Creek natural area or wait until Sunfish Pond." No ground fires are permitted at this site. The area offers both communal and secluded camping spots.

Most dispersed sites in this region have minimal or no facilities. Campers report limited spots at Hickok Brook, with "only 3 spots" available and restrictions on motor vehicles in certain areas. A permit is required for camping on New York State land; contact the appropriate county ranger office before arrival. Cell service is unreliable throughout these areas, particularly at Beals Pond State Forest where "Verizon reception" is unavailable in winter months. All sites require visitors to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Carbondale, Pennsylvania (5)

    1. Hickok Brook

    2 Reviews
    Barryville, NY
    33 miles

    "I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must."

    "Where I originally camped was not a spot, according to Ranger. Had to move next to the lake. Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county."

    2. Thunder Swamp Trailhead

    2 Reviews
    Unity House, PA
    37 miles

    "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."

    "Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."

    3. Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2

    2 Reviews
    Shawnee on Delaware, NJ
    45 miles
    Website

    "I gave the site only four stars because there's no water nearby, and the views are only mediocre."

    "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!"

    4. Beals Pond State Forest

    1 Review
    Trout Creek, NY
    44 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 357-2161

    5. Russell Brook Road

    Be the first to review!
    Roscoe, NY
    42 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Carbondale, PA

7 Photos of 5 Carbondale Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Carbondale, PA

5 Reviews of 5 Carbondale 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.

  • Corey
    Jun. 17, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites

    I drove in thinking that there would be flat places to park a very rugged camper in my full ton diesel pickup. The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping but you could conceivably drive up to the spots and pull off the road to put up a small tent somewhere. Very gorgeous but not rv friendly.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 27, 2024

    Beals Pond State Forest

    Not easily accessible in winter

    This state forest is beautiful but not easily accessible in the winter. After a certain point, the road is not maintained in the winter and I was unable to get cell reception with Verizon.

  • 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!

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Hickok Brook

    Small, don't blink you'll miss it.

    There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping. Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY. Really is a nice quiet place. It's Labor Day weekend, see how many people try to cram in to the very limited camping area. Where I originally camped was not a spot, according to Ranger. Had to move next to the lake. Need a permit on NY state land. Contact Rangers office of whatever county.

Guide to Carbondale

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Carbondale, Pennsylvania, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of options available, campers can enjoy the great outdoors while experiencing the freedom of camping away from traditional sites.

Safe and Clean Spots for Dispersed Campers

  • The Rest Area I-84 is a well-reviewed location that offers a sense of security, especially for solo travelers. Many visitors have noted the cleanliness of the facilities, making it a comfortable stop for overnight stays.
  • This area is popular among truckers and other campers, providing a lively atmosphere without feeling isolated. It's a great choice for those looking for a safe place to rest.
  • With no permit required, this spot is convenient for spontaneous trips, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful night under the stars without the hassle of reservations.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Carbondale, Pennsylvania

  • When visiting Hickok Brook, be prepared for a hike-in experience. This location has limited spots, so it's essential to arrive early to secure a place.
  • Make sure to bring all necessary supplies, as there are no motor vehicles allowed beyond the parking area. This ensures a more immersive experience in nature.
  • Keep in mind that a permit is required for camping on New York state land, so check with local rangers before your trip to avoid any surprises.

Beautiful Lakeside Experiences While Free Camping Near Carbondale

  • The Hickok Brook offers stunning lakeside views, perfect for those who appreciate scenic beauty while camping. Just be aware that the area can be buggy, so pack some insect repellent.
  • Accessing the camping spots may require a vehicle with good clearance due to rough roads, making it less suitable for RVs but ideal for tent campers seeking a picturesque setting.
  • For those looking for a more secluded experience, the Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 provides ample space and well-maintained areas with bear boxes for food storage, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Carbondale, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Carbondale, PA is Hickok Brook with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Carbondale, PA?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Carbondale, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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