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Best Dispersed Camping near Lehigh Valley, PA

2 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania centers primarily on several Appalachian Trail access points and trailheads where overnight parking or primitive camping is permitted. Bake Oven Knob provides a dual-purpose area serving both as an Appalachian Trail section and day hiking destination, with two large parking lots where overnight stays are possible. The Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers similar overnight parking options. Across the border in New Jersey, the Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 near Columbia serves as a free dispersed camping option for hikers traversing this section of the trail.

Access varies considerably between sites, with some requiring hiking while others permit drive-in access. The Appalachian Trail campsites generally require hike-in or walk-in access, while Thunder Swamp Trailhead features drive-in capability. Most sites enforce strict regulations, including fire bans and permit requirements at some locations. None of the dispersed sites provide amenities such as drinking water, toilets, or trash service. Visitors should prepare accordingly with adequate water supplies. A review noted that the nearest water source to the Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite is "Sunfish pond, easy hike about a 1 round trip."

These primitive camping areas offer both solitude and strategic positioning along hiking routes. At Bake Oven Knob, a visitor mentioned, "I've overnighted in my van here a bunch, no problems," noting the area provides access to "a high point on the Blue Mountain ridge of the Appalachian Mountains." The Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides a simple but functional base for exploration, with one camper describing it as "a gravel parking lot with plenty of shade" where "no one bothered me." The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 receives praise for its balance of community and privacy, with a reviewer commenting there are "plenty of space" with options for both communal and "secluded spots" as well as "good trees for hammocking."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania (4)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Lehigh Valley, PA

4 Photos of 4 Lehigh Valley Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Lehigh Valley, PA

2 Reviews of 4 Lehigh Valley 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.

  • 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!

Guide to Lehigh Valley

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of options, campers can enjoy the great outdoors while embracing the simplicity of a more rustic experience.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania

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 great choice for those hiking through Worthington State Forest.

Sunfish Pond: A must-visit for dispersed campers

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at public camping areas in Lehigh Valley?

Public camping areas in Lehigh Valley typically offer basic amenities. At Thunder Swamp Trailhead, you'll find a shaded gravel parking lot that serves as a simple overnight spot with access to extensive hiking trails, including the Saw Creek trail that leads to a marsh area. Most dispersed sites in the region are primitive with few facilities. Come prepared with your own water, as potable water sources are limited or unavailable at these locations. These areas primarily serve as access points to wilderness rather than developed campgrounds.

What are the rules and regulations for primitive camping in Lehigh Valley?

Primitive camping in the Lehigh Valley area follows standard backcountry protocols, especially along the Appalachian Trail. At Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, proper bear safety is required with bear boxes provided for food storage. The area has designated spaces for camping - some more secluded than others. Many sites are best suited for hammock camping due to sloped terrain. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and camp only in established sites. Some areas have seasonal restrictions, particularly during fire season, so check with land management agencies before your trip.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in Lehigh Valley?

Free dispersed camping options in the Lehigh Valley area include Bake Oven Knob, which offers overnight parking for vans and vehicles. This spot sits along the Appalachian Trail near Germansville, Pennsylvania, featuring two large parking lots with space for overnight stays. Many visitors report no issues staying here, as it serves both AT hikers and day visitors to the scenic knob overlook on Blue Mountain ridge. The area provides good access to hiking trails and natural scenery without fees.

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