Dispersed camping in the Lehigh Valley region encompasses several primitive sites at elevations between 800-1,500 feet within Pennsylvania's section of the Appalachian Mountains. The area features a mix of deciduous forest terrain with rocky outcroppings and limited water sources. Most primitive camping spots require proper planning as they lack basic facilities and have specific regulations regarding fires and overnight parking.
What to do
Hiking interconnected trail systems: Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides access to extensive hiking opportunities. As visitor Jason R. notes, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh." The trail system connects multiple loops for day hikes or overnight treks.
Rock scrambling at scenic overlooks: Bake Oven Knob offers challenging rock scrambling to reach panoramic views. According to Dani T., "The hike to the overlook is really lovely; short and rocky." The trail to the overlook requires moderate skill navigating uneven terrain but rewards with expansive valley vistas.
Wildlife viewing in protected habitats: The Appalachian Trail Campsite area contains protected forest habitat where campers can observe native wildlife. The natural setting provides opportunities for bird watching during spring migration and fall seasons. Morning hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing chances.
What campers like
Parking lot convenience: Many primitive camping options near Lehigh Valley utilize trailhead parking areas. Benjamin H. describes Thunder Swamp Trailhead as "a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me." These lots provide straightforward vehicle access without the need for backcountry hiking.
Hammock-friendly sites: Some locations particularly suit hammock camping rather than tent setups. Regarding the Appalachian Trail designated site, Katharine T. mentions there are "Good trees for hammocking" and notes the "Perfect balance of community and space" with "plenty of space" including more "secluded spots."
Strategic positioning for section hikers: Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 serves as an important waypoint for long-distance hikers. Renee Z. acknowledges its practicality despite limitations: "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."
What you should know
Water access limitations: Most primitive camping locations near Lehigh Valley lack water sources. At the AT Designated Backpacker site, Katharine T. explains there's "No Water (nearest is sunfish pound- easy hike about a 1 round trip)." Campers should carry sufficient water or plan collection routes.
Bear safety requirements: Some camping areas provide bear boxes for food storage. Katharine T. notes sites are "Well maintained w bear boxes provided." Always store food properly whether bear boxes are available or not.
Parking regulations vary by location: Overnight parking rules differ between sites. For van campers considering Bake Oven Knob, one visitor reports, "I've overnighted in my van here a bunch, no problems." However, always check current regulations as enforcement may change seasonally.
Tips for camping with families
Difficulty assessment: Families should carefully evaluate site accessibility. For the AT campsites, Renee Z. cautions the area is "a little on the small and sloped side for tent camping," which may present challenges for larger family tents or young children.
Navigation challenges: Appalachian Trail Campsite locations can be difficult to locate with minimal signage. As one camper notes, "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."
Alternative accommodations: Families seeking more facilities might consider established campgrounds instead of primitive sites. The primitive options around Lehigh Valley generally lack amenities like toilets, picnic tables, and trash service that families often prefer.
Tips from RVers
Suitable parking lot surfaces: For overnight trailhead parking, surface conditions matter. Benjamin H. confirms Thunder Swamp Trailhead is "a gravel parking lot" which typically provides better stability for vans and small RVs than unpaved alternatives.
Size restrictions: Most primitive camping areas near Lehigh Valley accommodate only smaller vehicles. Large RVs and trailers generally cannot access these locations due to road conditions and parking lot size limitations.
Overnight stealth considerations: When utilizing trailhead parking, discretion improves experiences. Standard practices include arriving near sunset, departing early, maintaining low profiles, and following leave-no-trace principles.
