Best Dispersed Camping near Matamoras, PA

Looking for the best Matamoras dispersed camping? Here you'll find a diverse selection of places to camp, including remote dispersed camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Find dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Matamoras, PA (6)

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Showing results 1-6 of 6 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Matamoras

6 Reviews of 6 Matamoras Campgrounds


  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
    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.

  • Corey The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickok Brook
    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.
    Camper-submitted photo from Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2
    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!

  • Ali B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping
    Sep. 28, 2020

    Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

    Dispersed primitive camping

    Great camping spots about 1.5 mile hike in from Denning Trailhead. A lot of spots right by the river. Great spot to camp and then wake up to hike to tabletop/ peekamoose mountain. (near the top of tabletop there is also a lean-to for camping).

  • Cory D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed
    May. 28, 2019

    Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    A place to sleep near the gunks

    This isn't a fancy campsite and has no amenities. There is a small(10 car) parking lot and a trail that runs thru 80 acres of forest. Camping is allowed anywhere 150ft from the trail. Normal LNT rules apply. Bugs are relentless. Many climbers stay there for access to the gunks.

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2
    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.


Guide to Matamoras

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Matamoras, Pennsylvania, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations to choose from, you can enjoy the great outdoors while embracing the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Scenic Lakeside Retreats for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience the tranquility of Hickok Brook, where you can set up camp near the water and enjoy peaceful views. Just remember, it's a hike-in site, so pack accordingly.
  • For those looking for a rugged adventure, Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers a drive-in access point, but be prepared to secure a permit before your visit.
  • If you prefer a more accessible option, the Rest Area I-84 provides a safe and clean environment for a quick overnight stay, perfect for solo travelers or those on a road trip.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Matamoras, Pennsylvania

  • Always check for permits before heading to places like Thunder Swamp Trailhead, as some areas require them for camping.
  • Bring all necessary supplies when visiting Hickok Brook, as there are no amenities available and it's a hike back to town for any essentials.
  • Be mindful of the local wildlife and practice Leave No Trace principles, especially in areas like Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, where camping is allowed throughout the forest.

Hiking and Exploration Opportunities for Dispersed Campers

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Matamoras, PA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Matamoras, PA is Hickok Brook with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Matamoras, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.