Best Dispersed Camping near Easton, PA

Dispersed camping options near Easton, Pennsylvania include the Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 in nearby Columbia, New Jersey and Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania. The Appalachian Trail site requires hikers to access on foot, while Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers drive-in access. These primitive sites provide basic accommodations for backpackers seeking free camping experiences in the region.

The Appalachian Trail campsite has specific regulations visitors must follow. No alcohol, pets, or ground fires are permitted at this location. Bear boxes are provided for proper food storage. According to reviews, the site offers both communal and secluded spots suitable for tent and hammock camping. The terrain is somewhat sloped, making hammock camping preferable for some visitors. Several campers noted the site is small but well-maintained and provides good trees for hammocking.

Water access is limited in the area, requiring advance planning. No drinking water is available at either campsite. Hikers must stock up at Dunnfield Creek Natural Area or plan a round-trip hike to Sunfish Pond, approximately one mile from the Appalachian Trail site. The Worthington State Forest, which contains the Appalachian Trail site, designates this as the only legal camping area within forest boundaries. The site itself is unmarked but recognizable as a camping area along the trail. A permit is required for camping at Thunder Swamp Trailhead, so visitors should secure proper documentation before arrival.

Map showing campgrounds near Easton, Pennsylvania

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Easton, Pennsylvania (4)

1. Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2
2 Reviews
Shawnee on Delaware, NJ
24 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!"
2. Bake Oven Knob
1 Review
Andreas, PA
27 miles
"This spot is both part of the Appalachian Trail and a day hiking area for the Bake Oven Knob, which is a high point on the Blue Mountain ridge of the Appalachian Mountains near Germansville, Pennsylvania"

3. Appalachian Trail Campsite
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Palmerton, PA
21 miles
4. Thunder Swamp Trailhead
2 Reviews
Unity House, PA
33 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."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Easton, PA

4 Photos of 4 Easton Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Easton, PA

2 Reviews of 4 Easton Campgrounds

R
Renee Z.
Scout
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.
Guide
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 Easton

Dispersed camping near Easton, Pennsylvania, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of options available, campers can enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors while exploring the scenic beauty of the region.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Easton, Pennsylvania

Always check for water sources before heading out; for instance, at the Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, the nearest water is a hike away at Sunfish Pond.

Scenic views for dispersed campers

If you're looking for stunning vistas, the Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 offers great views, making it a perfect spot for those who appreciate natural beauty.

Safety and amenities while free camping near Easton

For those concerned about safety and cleanliness, the Rest Area I-84 provides a secure environment with clean facilities, making it a reliable choice for solo travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Easton, PA is Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Easton, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

Best Dispersed Camping near Easton, PA

Best Dispersed Sites Near Easton, Pennsylvania (4)

1. Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2

2. Bake Oven Knob

3. Appalachian Trail Campsite

4. Thunder Swamp Trailhead