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Dispersed Camping

Albert Mountain Firetower Dispersed Campsite

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Albert Mountain Firetower Dispersed Campsite is located near the Appalachian Mountains in North Carolina. The area features rugged terrain with elevations that can influence temperatures, ranging from 30°F in winter to 85°F in summer. Nearby attractions include the Appalachian Trail and the scenic views from Albert Mountain Firetower.

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Location

Albert Mountain Firetower Dispersed Campsite is located in North Carolina

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

35.05256421 N
83.47765336 W

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Connectivity

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    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Albert Mountain Firetower Dispersed Campsite needs a permit.

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2 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 25, 2021

This one's for the hikers

You can access this campsite by various means, but do your research and save yourself as many steps, because make no mistake, this is a serious hiking trail (a mile to a mile and a half, depending on route) up to the Fire Tower. 

Part of the Appalachian Train, once you park your car or hike in, you'll make your way uphill over crude-cut rocks, tree roots, and muddy, narrow paths. Hiking poles are strongly recommended. The path down is just as treacherous as the path up, as moisture from the mountain drips down over craggy footholds. 

While the path is popular with hikers, anyone camping should consider using a very small pack, especially since some of the trails have nothing but a chasm on one side. 

Once you make it to the Fire Tower, however, all is forgiven. The site from the bottom is breathtaking, and you can see, well, forever. Heading up the tower (the very top is closed to visitors and mothballed), you get an almost full 360º panorama of the surrounding valleys and mountains. 

The camp site itself is very rustic, no amenities other than a rock fire ring, and does not face the vistas. There's a weak LTE signal at the top, but be prepared to lose your signal along the way.

Side note: I came through the Coweeta Hydrological Laboratory, which has numerous signs posted that you cannot camp there. However, it's part of the larger National Forest and it's not exactly clear where camping begins to be allowed, as there were several rustic sites along the trail at the upper end.

If you do come driving through the Coweeta Hydrological Laboratory path, be prepared for narrow, steep gravel lanes. And keep in mind that if you do park your car on one of the (few) spaces available, you're going to be very far from it, and the site didn't appear to be patrolled in any way.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Albert Mountain Firetower Dispersed Campsite by William S., September 25, 2021
  • Review photo of Albert Mountain Firetower Dispersed Campsite by William S., September 25, 2021
  • Review photo of Albert Mountain Firetower Dispersed Campsite by William S., September 25, 2021
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Dec. 13, 2020

Incredible View

This campground is located at the top of Albert Mountain right next to the fire tower. It is along a section of the AT and is a great place to camp for the night. This site is also accessible via car by driving up the forestry road though you will still have to hike in a short way. The site itself is a small clearing with a little built up firepit. There is plenty of space for 1-2 tents and it is somewhat protected by shrubs. Overall it's worth camping at this site since you can climb up the tower to get an incredible view for either sunrise or sunset. When we were here the gate to the top of the firetower was locked but you could still get up the stairs and have a nice view.

  • Review photo of Albert Mountain Firetower Dispersed Campsite by Asher K., December 13, 2020
  • Review photo of Albert Mountain Firetower Dispersed Campsite by Asher K., December 13, 2020
  • Review photo of Albert Mountain Firetower Dispersed Campsite by Asher K., December 13, 2020
  • (16) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Albert Mountain Campground?

Albert Mountain Firetower Dispersed Campsite is a primitive camping area with minimal amenities. The site is a basic dispersed camping location without developed facilities. There are no restrooms, running water, electrical hookups, or trash services. Campers should come prepared to be self-sufficient with all necessary supplies including water and waste disposal bags. The main attraction is the fire tower itself and the natural surroundings.

How do I hike to the Albert Mountain Fire Tower from the campground?

The Albert Mountain Fire Tower is conveniently located right next to the campground at the top of Albert Mountain. The campsite is situated along a section of the Appalachian Trail. If arriving by car, you'll need to drive up the forestry road and then hike in a short distance to reach the campsite and fire tower. Be prepared for a challenging hike - depending on your route, it's approximately a mile to a mile and a half up to the Fire Tower with serious elevation gain. The trail is part of the Appalachian Trail system, so it's well-maintained but steep.

What's the best time of year to camp on Albert Mountain?

The best time to camp on Albert Mountain is during late spring through early fall when weather conditions are most favorable. Summer offers pleasant temperatures at higher elevations, while spring and fall provide spectacular views with seasonal foliage. Winter camping is possible but requires advanced preparation for potentially harsh conditions including cold temperatures and possible snow at this elevation. Check weather forecasts before your trip regardless of season, as mountain weather can change rapidly.