Primitive camping near Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania requires careful planning due to seasonal restrictions and limited facilities. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, with summer highs averaging in the mid-80s. Most dispersed sites in the region have no potable water sources, making water management critical for overnight stays.
What to do
Night hiking opportunities: The Appalachian Trail near Bake Oven Knob offers excellent stargazing potential. "The hike to the overlook is really lovely; short and rocky," notes one visitor to Bake Oven Knob.
Bird watching: The marshlands accessible from Thunder Swamp Trailhead provide habitat for diverse bird species. A camper mentioned, "Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh," indicating the wetland areas within hiking distance of the parking area.
Trail exploration: Multiple interconnected trails originate from trailheads throughout the region. A visitor to Thunder Swamp Trailhead reported, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking."
What campers like
Hammock camping options: Many sites feature sufficient tree spacing for hammock setups. At Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, one camper noted it was "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!"
Balance of community and solitude: Some sites allow for both social and private camping. A visitor reported, "We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too. We'll maintained w bear boxes provided. Good trees for hammocking."
Lakeside camping: Water-adjacent sites provide scenic camping when available. At Hickok Brook, a camper described, "Beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites," highlighting both the appeal and challenges of waterfront primitive camping.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some areas require permits, particularly on New York state land. A camper at Hickok Brook 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."
Road conditions: Access roads to remote sites often require appropriate vehicles. One visitor warned about Hickok Brook: "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping."
Limited capacity: Many primitive sites accommodate only a small number of campers. "There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping," reported a visitor at Hickok Brook, emphasizing the need to arrive early during busy periods.
Tips for camping with families
Water planning: Pack all drinking water needed for your stay or research collection points. One camper at Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 advised, "No Water (nearest is sunfish pound- easy hike about a 1 round trip)."
Navigation considerations: Many sites are unmarked and require careful navigation. A camper noted, "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."
Supply access: Limited access to towns means bringing all necessities. "Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY," advised a Hickok Brook visitor.
Tips from RVers
Trailhead overnight parking: Several trailhead parking areas accommodate overnight stays in vehicles. At Thunder Swamp Trailhead, a van camper described, "It's a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
Multiple parking options: Some areas offer various lots for different vehicle sizes. One experienced camper at Bake Oven Knob shared, "I've overnighted in my van here a bunch, no problems... There are two large lots. You can park and sleep, or hike in and find a place for a tent."
Size limitations: Most dispersed areas have significant restrictions for larger vehicles. A visitor warned, "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."
