Dispersed camping near Millrift, Pennsylvania offers primitive experiences in the Delaware River watershed region. The surrounding forested highlands range from 800 to 1,200 feet in elevation, creating varied terrain for overnight stays. Most sites in this tri-state area require visitors to pack out all waste, as the region primarily consists of undeveloped, permit-regulated camping zones.
What to do
Fish mountain streams: Hemlock Ridge MUA provides access to several small streams where overnight campers can fish. One visitor reported, "There's no spectacular mountain views from above, but rather a quiet peaceful wooded area & although I only seen/stayed at one camping spot which is literally at about the required 150ft from the road, you can set up your own camp anywhere."
Hike to mountaintops: Denning Trailhead leads to significant elevation gains and lean-to shelters. According to a camper, "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."
Set up riverside camp: Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping offers water access for those willing to hike in. The sites are scattered along waterways, with a camper noting, "Great camping spots about 1.5 mile hike in from Denning Trailhead. A lot of spots right by the river."
What campers like
Secluded environment: Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed receives praise for its privacy. A visitor shared, "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."
Bear boxes for food storage: Certain Appalachian Trail sites include practical amenities for backpackers. One hiker mentioned, "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."
Shaded parking areas: Thunder Swamp Trailhead offers overnight parking for self-contained campers. As one visitor noted, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many sites around Millrift have minimal to no connectivity. At Hemlock Ridge, campers report "barely even a signal here," while other locations have similar limitations.
Water planning essential: Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 lacks immediate water access. A backpacker advised, "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."
Road conditions vary dramatically: Access to Hickok Brook requires appropriate vehicles. One camper warned, "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."
Permit requirements differ by state: New York state lands often require advance permission. At Hickok Brook, a camper learned this firsthand: "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
Limited facilities for children: Most dispersed sites lack conveniences. At Hickok Brook, visitors should prepare accordingly: "Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY."
Insect preparation: Hickok Brook and surrounding areas experience significant bug activity. One camper described their experience as "Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites," while another location was described as having "bugs are relentless."
Site capacity constraints: Parking limitations affect group size possibilities. At Hemlock Ridge, "The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight," limiting the number of vehicles for family outings.
Tips from RVers
High-clearance vehicles only: Rough access roads dominate the dispersed camping landscape. One RVer at Hickok Brook explained, "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."
Trailhead overnight options: Thunder Swamp Trailhead serves as a functional overnight spot for self-contained vehicles. A camper reported, "It's a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
Limited room for larger rigs: Most dispersed areas have tight parking. Hemlock Ridge exemplifies this limitation where "the parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight," making standard RVs impractical at most sites.
