Best Dispersed Camping near Rowland, PA
Dispersed camping options near Rowland, Pennsylvania include several primitive sites within driving distance. Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania requires permits and offers drive-in access. Nearby in New York, Hickok Brook provides lakeside tent sites with picnic tables and no permit requirements. According to recent visitors, "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must" at Hickok Brook. The limited camping area contains only three designated spots, and motor vehicles are restricted beyond certain points.
The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 in New Jersey serves hikers with walk-in access. This site prohibits fires, pets, and alcohol, but provides bear boxes and suitable trees for hammock camping. No water is available at this location; campers must stock up at Dunnfield Creek Natural Area or Sunfish Pond. Several hikers noted the site is "well maintained with bear boxes provided" but emphasized the importance of carrying all water. The terrain is somewhat sloped for tent camping but accommodates hammocks well.
For those willing to travel farther, Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping in New York features riverside sites approximately 1.5 miles from the trailhead. These free sites permit fires and allow pets without requiring permits. This area serves as an excellent base camp for hiking to Tabletop and Peekamoose mountains. Russell Brook Road in New York offers additional drive-in dispersed camping without permit requirements. When camping on New York state land, contact the appropriate county ranger office regarding current regulations and restrictions. All dispersed sites require proper waste management and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.
