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Dispersed Camping

Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping

Campers are Saying

Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping, near Sylva, North Carolina, is a fantastic spot for those who love the great outdoors and don’t mind a little adventure. This area offers a unique camping experience right off the Blue Ridge Parkway, with options to set up camp under towering pine trees or on the mountain's summit for breathtaking views.

Visitors rave about the stunning sunrises and sunsets, with one camper noting, “The clouds are amazing; you are basically in them or above them.” While there are no amenities like drinking water or electric hookups, the freedom to camp in such a beautiful setting is a major draw. Just be prepared for some wind if you choose to camp at the top—one reviewer warned that “the wind is no joke” up there.

For those looking to stretch their legs, the nearby Skinny Dipping Falls is a must-see, just a short hike away. The area is known for its scenic trails and picturesque landscapes, making it a great base for hiking and exploring. While some campers mentioned the proximity to the parking lot can bring in more people, the views and natural beauty make it worth the trip. If you’re after a peaceful escape with stunning scenery, Black Balsam Knob is definitely worth checking out.

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Location

Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping is located in North Carolina

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

35.3293000000005 N
82.8946000000011 W

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Access

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

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Available
  • AT&T
    Available
  • T-Mobile
    Available

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

Reviews

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5 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 15, 2024

10/10

I actually cannot stop thinking about my weekend camp here. So beautiful and lots of places to camp. Not a hard hike in either. A lot of day hikers through out the day. Lots of flies bc of dog poop but it’s worth it.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping by Celine T., August 15, 2024
  • Review photo of Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping by Celine T., August 15, 2024
  • Review photo of Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping by Celine T., August 15, 2024
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Feb. 17, 2023

The wind is no joke

The sunset was breathtaking and the hike was very fun but if you are camping overnight, expect wind gusts that are capable of snapping tent poles. There is very little wind coverage at the top of the mountain.

Siteoff grid
Month of VisitJanuary
  • Review photo of Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping by John R., February 17, 2023
  • Review photo of Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping by John R., February 17, 2023
  • Review photo of Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping by John R., February 17, 2023
  • (9) View All
Reviewed May. 14, 2022

Great camping spot!

Lots of places to set up camp. We set up below the mountain, but there are spots at the top as well. The clouds are amazing you are basically in them or above them. Definitely worth the trip!

Also recommend checking out skinny dipping falls it is about 5 miles away and about a mile round trip. Lots of fun and cool rocks to climb on. 

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping by matt E., May 14, 2022
  • Review photo of Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping by matt E., May 14, 2022
  • Review photo of Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping by matt E., May 14, 2022
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Jul. 8, 2021

Free, easy, and beautiful

Perfect for tent camping right off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Campsites are next to the road under the pine trees or you can camp on top of the mountain. It’s an easy 20-30min hike to the top of the mountain with tall grass and a wide open view to see the sunrise and sunset!

Siteyou can camp anywhere
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping by Peter H., July 8, 2021
  • Review photo of Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping by Peter H., July 8, 2021
  • Review photo of Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping by Peter H., July 8, 2021
  • (14) View All
Reviewed Nov. 5, 2020

Dispersed Camping with Great Views Close

Although you can camp just about anywhere in Pisgah National Forest, there are specific sites near the trailhead to Sam Knob. This area is known as Black Balsam. There are no RV sites, and you have to hike about a hundred yards or less to the sites, unless you camp on the bald. The sites had lots of roots, so it was difficult to find a level site without roots all over the area. With that said, it is a good place to camp, and it is just a short walk to the pit toilet, which is also at the trailhead. There are fire pits, but there are no lantern hangers or tent pads. Expect to hear lots of cars and people during the busy months about 200 feet away. Because of that, a better place to stay is at the top of Sam Knob, which you can do. That was a better choice for me since I try to stay away from crowds as much as I can. However, you cannot clear or make a new spot; you have to“find” a spot in which you do not disturb the area. You will need a freestanding tent since you will probably be pitching it on solid rock. 

The biggest problem with staying on the knob is the weather. Unfortunately, it poured rain and was windy when I was there. I expected it to be windy, but mixed with the rain, it made it unpleasant. Sam Knob is a heather bald, so that gives you a little privacy. However, expect a hikers to end up there since it is a hiking destination and the views are great. 

Overall, it is a good place to camp, but there will be people close by no matter where you pitch your tent, whether it is a hundred yards from the parking lot or up on top of Sam Knob.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping by Myron C., November 5, 2020
  • Review photo of Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping by Myron C., November 5, 2020
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping?

    Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping is located at 6059 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is available, AT&T is available, and T-Mobile is available.