Best Dispersed Camping near Long Pond, PA

Dispersed camping options near Long Pond, Pennsylvania include several primitive sites suitable for backpackers and hikers. The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 in nearby New Jersey provides free camping with bear boxes but no water sources. Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania requires permits for overnight stays. Hickok Brook in New York features lakeside tent sites with picnic tables. These areas primarily serve hikers seeking primitive camping experiences away from developed facilities.

Water access is limited throughout these dispersed sites. According to reviews, campers at the Appalachian Trail site must "stock up on water at Dunnfield Creek natural area or wait until Sunfish Pond," as no water is available at the campsite itself. Pack in all necessary water or bring reliable filtration systems. Bear boxes are provided at some locations, but proper food storage is essential throughout the region. No ground fires are permitted at the Appalachian Trail site.

Access varies significantly between locations. Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers drive-in access, while the Appalachian Trail site requires hiking in. Several campers noted that Hickok Brook has "very rough roads with huge potholes," requiring vehicles with good clearance. The camping areas themselves are generally small with limited spots. Permits are required for camping on New York state land near Hickok Brook; contact the appropriate county ranger office before arrival. The Appalachian Trail site is particularly suitable for hammock camping due to its terrain and available trees, though tent sites can be found as well.