Best Dispersed Camping near Covington, PA
Dispersed camping options near Covington, Pennsylvania include several primitive sites within driving distance. The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 in New Jersey provides free hike-in camping with bear boxes and hammock-friendly trees. Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania offers drive-in access but requires permits. Hickok Brook in New York features lakeside tent sites with picnic tables but limited vehicle access beyond certain points.
Water availability is restricted at these sites. The Appalachian Trail campsite has no water source nearby; campers must stock up at Dunnfield Creek Natural Area or plan a round-trip hike to Sunfish Pond. According to reviews, this site is "small and sloped for tent camping but great for hammocks." Bear boxes are provided, and ground fires are prohibited. The terrain offers a mix of communal and secluded spots.
Road conditions vary significantly between locations. Hickok Brook access requires vehicles with good clearance due to rough roads with large potholes. Several campers noted it is "not RV friendly" despite its scenic lakeside setting. The site has only three designated camping spots, and permits are required for camping on New York State land. Visitors should contact the appropriate county ranger office before arrival. Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides more accessible drive-in options but still requires advance permits. All sites have limited amenities, so campers must pack in all necessary supplies and pack out all waste.