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Best Dispersed Camping near Tafton, PA

4 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Tafton, Pennsylvania includes several primitive sites on public lands, with options like Thunder Swamp Trailhead in Pennsylvania and Hickok Brook across the border in New York. These areas provide free camping opportunities for those seeking backcountry experiences without developed facilities. The Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2, located in nearby New Jersey, offers another dispersed camping option for hikers traversing this section of the trail.

Access to these dispersed sites varies significantly. Thunder Swamp Trailhead permits drive-in access but requires camping permits. The road conditions can be challenging, with one camper noting it was "chill for a night" with "tons of hiking" opportunities. Hickok Brook features rough roads with "huge potholes" requiring good clearance vehicles, making it unsuitable for RVs or car camping despite being technically drive-in accessible. The Appalachian Trail site is accessible only by hiking in, with no vehicle access.

"Small but kind of your only option," noted one camper about the Appalachian Trail site, highlighting the limited dispersed camping in some areas. These primitive sites typically lack amenities. Hickok Brook campers described it as "beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites" with very limited spots. A ranger reportedly enforces proper camping locations, and permits are required on New York state land. The Appalachian Trail site provides bear boxes and good trees for hammocking but prohibits ground fires. Water sources are limited, with reviews mentioning "no water nearby" at some locations, requiring hikers to stock up at Dunnfield Creek Natural Area or Sunfish Pond when using the Appalachian Trail site.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Tafton, Pennsylvania (5)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Tafton, PA

7 Photos of 5 Tafton Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Tafton, PA

4 Reviews of 5 Tafton Campgrounds

  • R
    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.

  • Corey
    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.
    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!

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    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.

Guide to Tafton

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Tafton, Pennsylvania, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations to choose from, adventurers can enjoy the great outdoors while embracing the freedom of camping without designated sites.

Dispersed campers should check out Hickok Brook

  • Hickok Brook offers a peaceful retreat with only a few spots available, making it ideal for those seeking solitude in nature.
  • Access is limited to hike-in and walk-in, so be prepared to carry your gear for a bit to reach this hidden gem.
  • The area features picnic tables, allowing for a comfortable spot to enjoy meals amidst the scenic surroundings.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Tafton, Pennsylvania

  • When visiting the Rest Area I-84, you'll find a safe and clean environment, perfect for solo travelers or those looking for a quick stop.
  • This location is accessible by car, making it convenient for those who prefer not to hike in with heavy gear.
  • The facilities are well-maintained, with clean bathrooms and vending machines available for snacks and drinks.

Enjoy hiking and nature while free camping near Tafton

  • The Appalachian Trail- Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 is a great spot for those looking to combine hiking with camping, offering ample space and beautiful views.
  • Bear boxes are provided for food storage, ensuring a safe experience while enjoying the wilderness.
  • While there is no water source on-site, a short hike to Sunfish Pond will provide access to fresh water for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Tafton, PA?

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

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

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Tafton, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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