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Best Dispersed Camping near Jessup, PA

4 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Jessup, Pennsylvania centers around several primitive sites in the surrounding region. Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania provides drive-in access for dispersed camping, though a permit is required. Additional options include Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 near Columbia, New Jersey, approximately 30 miles from Jessup. Hickok Brook in New York state and Russell Brook Road offer alternatives for those willing to travel slightly farther north, with Hickok Brook accessible via hiking trails and Russell Brook Road allowing vehicle access.

Access conditions vary significantly between sites. Thunder Swamp Trailhead features extensive hiking opportunities along the trail system. Hickok Brook requires good vehicle clearance to reach the trailhead, with reviews noting "very rough roads with huge potholes." The Appalachian Trail campsite prohibits ground fires, alcohol, and pets, and provides bear boxes for food storage. Most sites lack amenities such as drinking water, toilets, or trash service. Campers must pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Permits are required at Thunder Swamp Trailhead but not at Hickok Brook or Russell Brook Road.

These primitive camping areas provide varying experiences based on location and terrain. The Appalachian Trail site balances community and solitude, with one camper noting it has "plenty of space" with "secluded spots too" and "good trees for hammocking." Water access is limited, with the "nearest water at Sunfish Pond, about a mile round trip." Hickok Brook features lakeside tent sites described as "beautiful but buggy" in reviews. A visitor mentioned "there are only 3 spots" and advised to "bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town." Thunder Swamp Trailhead parking was described as "chill for a night" with "tons of hiking" opportunities, particularly along Saw Creek trail leading to marsh areas.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Jessup, Pennsylvania (5)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Jessup, PA

7 Photos of 5 Jessup Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Jessup, PA

4 Reviews of 5 Jessup 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 Jessup

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Jessup, Pennsylvania, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Jessup, Pennsylvania

  • The Rest Area I-84 is a safe and clean option for solo travelers, providing a welcoming environment with other campers and truckers around.
  • For a more secluded experience, consider Hickok Brook, which offers a quiet atmosphere but requires a hike-in, so be prepared to carry your gear.
  • If you're looking for a unique experience, the Thunder Swamp Trailhead requires a permit, ensuring a less crowded environment for those who plan ahead.

Dispersed campers should check out Hickok Brook

  • Located in New York, Hickok Brook features only a few spots, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature.
  • The area is accessible only by hiking or walking, so it's essential to bring all necessary supplies with you, as there are no amenities nearby.
  • Be mindful of the local regulations, as camping spots may not always be clearly marked, and it's advisable to check in with park rangers if you're unsure.

Scenic spots for nature lovers near Jessup

  • The Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 offers stunning views and well-maintained facilities, perfect for those hiking the trail.
  • This site is free and provides bear boxes for food storage, ensuring a safe camping experience while enjoying the natural surroundings.
  • Although there are no water sources directly at the site, nearby Sunfish Pond is an easy hike away, making it a great spot to replenish your supplies.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Jessup, PA is Thunder Swamp Trailhead with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

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

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