Dispersed camping near Tannersville, Pennsylvania offers overnight options within Delaware State Forest and along sections of the Appalachian Trail. The area features elevations ranging from 400-1600 feet with mixed hardwood forests dominating the landscape. Most rustic sites in this region require campers to practice Leave No Trace principles with limited or no facilities available.
What to do
Hiking from trailheads: Thunder Swamp Trailhead provides access to extensive trail networks in Delaware State Forest. As camper Jason R. notes, "Trailhead parking was chill for a night. No trouble. Tons of hiking. Went down Saw Creek trail to a marsh."
Rocky overlook exploration: Bake Oven Knob offers a short but challenging hike to panoramic views. "The hike to the overlook is really lovely; short and rocky," reports Dani T., who frequently overnights in the parking area.
Lakeside recreation: Primitive camping spots near water bodies provide fishing and swimming opportunities during warmer months. At Hickok Brook, campers find "beautiful but buggy lakeside tent sites" according to Corey, who visited the area with a pickup truck.
What campers like
Natural seclusion: The dispersed sites throughout the region offer varying levels of privacy. Katharine T. described Appalachian Trail Designated Backpacker Campsite 2 as having "plenty of space. We camped nearer to others but there are secluded spots too."
Hammock-friendly terrain: Many sites feature suitable trees for hammock camping. Katharine T. also noted that AT camping areas are "well maintained w bear boxes provided. Good trees for hammocking."
Parking access: Several trailheads serve as informal overnight spots for self-contained campers. Benjamin H. described Thunder Swamp Trailhead as "a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me."
What you should know
Permit requirements: New York state lands require camping permits obtained from county ranger offices. Gregg T. learned this firsthand 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."
Limited site availability: Most dispersed camping areas contain only a few established spots. At Hickok Brook, Gregg T. observed, "There are only 3 spots where we are. No motor vehicles beyond where I'm camping."
Water access challenges: Plan to carry all necessary water. At Appalachian Trail sites, Renee Z. advises to "stock up on water at Dunnfield creek natural area, or wait until Sunfish pond."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection considerations: Choose sites with level ground for tent setups. Renee Z. cautions that some backcountry sites can be "a little on the small and sloped side for tent camping," making them less ideal for families with multiple tents.
Bear safety precautions: Utilize provided bear boxes at designated sites. Thunder Swamp Trailhead connects to trails with wildlife presence, so proper food storage is essential when venturing into backcountry camping spots.
Supply planning: Pack all necessities before arriving. Gregg T. recommends, "Bring everything with you. It's a hike back to town... there is a small town 10 minutes away. Eldred, NY."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance limitations: High-clearance vehicles are necessary for accessing many rustic camping areas. Corey found Hickok Brook challenging: "The road is very rough with huge potholes so good clearance is a must. It's not a good spot for car camping."
Overnight parking options: Some trailhead parking lots permit overnight stays. Dani T. shares about Bake Oven Knob: "I've overnighted in my van here a bunch, no problems. This spot is both part of the Appalachian Trail and a day hiking area... There are two large lots."
Size restrictions: Most dispersed camping locations near Tannersville cannot accommodate larger RVs. Small vans and truck campers have better success at trailhead parking areas like Thunder Swamp and Bake Oven Knob where overnight parking is typically tolerated.
Scout
