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Best Dispersed Camping near Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

4 Reviews

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, PA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (4)

    1. Thunder Swamp Trailhead

    2 Reviews
    Unity House, PA
    7 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."

    2. Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2

    2 Reviews
    Shawnee on Delaware, NJ
    13 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!"

    3. Hickok Brook

    2 Reviews
    Barryville, NY
    25 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."

    4. Appalachian Trail Campsite

    Be the first to review!
    Palmerton, PA
    43 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

7 Photos of 4 Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

4 Reviews of 4 Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area 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.

  • 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 Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in Pennsylvania, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. This area offers a variety of unique camping experiences, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Pennsylvania

  • Make sure to bring all necessary supplies, as sites like the Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 do not provide drinking water or restroom facilities.
  • Be prepared for a hike-in experience; many spots, including Hickok Brook, require you to carry your gear to the site, so pack light and efficiently.
  • Familiarize yourself with local regulations, as some areas may have restrictions on campfires and require permits, such as at the Thunder Swamp Trailhead.

Dispersed campers should check out Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2

  • This site offers a mix of community and solitude, with well-maintained areas and bear boxes for food storage, making it a safe choice for backpackers looking to enjoy the trail.

Enjoy scenic views while free camping near Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

  • The Hickok Brook area provides beautiful lakeside tent sites, perfect for those who appreciate nature's tranquility and stunning landscapes, though be mindful of the bugs during warmer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free camping in Delaware Water Gap?

Free camping options in Delaware Water Gap are limited to a few specific locations. Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers a free overnight parking option in a shaded gravel lot that campers report is peaceful and unbothered. This trailhead provides access to extensive hiking trails, including the Saw Creek trail leading to marshland areas. Another option is trailside camping along designated sections of longer trails like the Appalachian Trail. Remember that while these options are free, they're primitive with no facilities, so you'll need to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Always verify current regulations before your trip.

What are the regulations for primitive camping in Delaware Water Gap?

Primitive camping regulations in Delaware Water Gap require staying only in designated areas, with no true dispersed camping allowed throughout the park. At Hickok Brook, primitive camping spots are limited (only about 3 sites), and access requires vehicles with good clearance due to rough roads with large potholes. Some areas prohibit motor vehicles beyond certain points. Pack-in/pack-out principles apply to all waste, and no services are available. Bear-safe food storage is required, with bear boxes provided at some locations like the Appalachian Trail campsites. Campfires may be restricted seasonally. Be prepared for complete self-sufficiency, as the nearest supplies are typically at least 10 minutes away in small towns.

Is dispersed camping allowed in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area?

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, but only in designated areas. The park has specific backpacker campsites along the Appalachian Trail, like Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, which is designed for primitive camping. These designated sites typically have some basic amenities like bear boxes but lack water sources. True dispersed camping (camping anywhere you choose) is not permitted in the recreation area. Always check with park authorities before your trip as regulations may change seasonally, and permits might be required for overnight stays.

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