Best Dispersed Camping near Fogelsville, PA
Dispersed camping options near Fogelsville, Pennsylvania include two notable sites within driving distance. The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 in Columbia, NJ offers free primitive camping accessible by hiking in. Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania provides drive-in access but requires permits. Both locations serve as strategic overnight points for backpackers traversing this section of the Appalachian 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 lacks drinking water sources, making it essential to stock up at Dunnfield Creek Natural Area or plan a side trip to Sunfish Pond. Campers report the area works well for hammock camping but may present challenges for tent setup due to sloped terrain.
Thunder Swamp Trailhead requires advance permits for overnight stays. The trailhead serves as an access point to the Thunder Swamp Trail System within the Delaware State Forest. Visitors should prepare for self-sufficient camping with no amenities or facilities available. Several campers noted that while the Appalachian Trail site offers "plenty of space" with "secluded spots," it lacks a shelter structure that some hikers expect. The site balances community areas with more private camping zones, making it suitable for different camping preferences.
Both locations require proper wilderness ethics including pack-in, pack-out practices. Weather in this region can change rapidly, particularly in spring and fall. Proper bear-resistant food storage is essential throughout the Pennsylvania and New Jersey sections of the Appalachian Trail corridor.
