Dispersed camping opportunities near Matamoras, Pennsylvania extend through the western Catskills and Delaware Water Gap regions. Several primitive camping areas offer alternatives to developed campgrounds within a 45-minute drive radius. Winter temperatures in this region often drop below freezing between November and March, with summer highs typically ranging from 75-85°F. Most sites require campers to pack out all trash and follow standard Leave No Trace principles.
What to do
Hiking access to remote sites: The Denning Trailhead area offers primitive camping spots approximately 1.5 miles from the trailhead. According to Ali B., "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."
Trail exploration: Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides access to extensive hiking networks. Jason R. noted, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."
Hammock camping options: The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 provides suitable trees for hammock setups. Katharine T. reports, "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. Good trees for hammocking."
What campers like
Bear safety features: Appalachian Trail campsites include practical storage solutions. As Katharine T. mentions, "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."
Quiet, off-grid experience: Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed offers secluded camping without crowds. Dawn M. explains, "If you like dispersed camping, like me- this place is good. There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it's quiet & off the beaten path."
Shaded parking areas: Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides basic amenities for overnight parking. Benjamin H. simply states, "It's a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many dispersed camping areas near Matamoras have rough access roads. At Hickok Brook, Corey advises, "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."
Limited parking: Free camping areas often have restricted parking capacity. At Hemlock Ridge MUA, Dawn M. notes, "The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight."
Permit regulations: Camping on state land requires proper permits. Gregg T. warns from his experience at Hickok Brook, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Water planning: No potable water exists at most free camping sites near Matamoras. The Appalachian Trail campsite requires planning, as Katharine T. advises, "No Water (nearest is sunfish pound- easy hike about a 1 round trip)."
Bug protection: Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed visitors should prepare for insects. Cory D. warns, "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."
Site selection: When seeking free camping near Matamoras, Pennsylvania, look for established sites. At Hickok Brook, Gregg T. notes, "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."
Tips from RVers
Small RV considerations: Most dispersed camping areas near Matamoras cannot accommodate large rigs. At Hickok Brook, Corey cautions, "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."
Supply planning: No services exist at most free camping locations. Gregg T. recommends, "Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY."
