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Facilities

Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Butner lake WMA

Butner Lake WMA, near Butner, North Carolina, is a straightforward spot for those looking to enjoy some rustic camping without the frills. This area is perfect for tent camping or car camping, with easy access right off the road and a few small sites tucked away in the woods.

Visitors have noted that it’s a great place for a quick overnight stay, especially if you’re passing through. One camper mentioned, “Works perfectly, especially in a pinch,” highlighting its convenience. While the amenities are minimal—think fire rings and a place to hang your gear—many appreciate the peace and quiet, especially during hunting season when the crowds thin out.

The surrounding nature is a big draw, with plenty of trees and open spaces to soak in the outdoors. If you’re comfortable with a more primitive experience, this location offers a chance to disconnect and enjoy a night under the stars. Just remember, it’s free camping, so you can save some cash while enjoying the great outdoors.

Description

Fish and Wildlife Service

Free camping from September 1 - February 28, and March 31 - May 14. Designated as Hunter Camping, accessible to all.

Access Map: https://www.ncwildlife.org/Portals/0/Hunting/Game-Land-Maps/Piedmont/Butner-Falls-of-Neuse.pdf

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Location

Butner lake WMA is located in North Carolina

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

36.15930971 N
78.75584055 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Stay Connected

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

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • 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 Butner lake WMA needs a permit.

Contact

General Info


Reviews

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4.0

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8 Reviews

Reviewed Apr. 1, 2024

terrific spot to pull up for a night

first time doing any type of dispersed camping but it was really easy to find, just off the road in the woods, just follow the coordinates and its a lil past, look for the signs, with lil sites to pull my car up to deeper in the woods, though you can still see the headlights coming from the road.

I'm not a hunter but no one else was there and I pulled up at 10pm and left 6am on the first day of open season.

Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Butner lake WMA by S H., April 1, 2024
Reviewed May. 17, 2023

Great small sites

Right off the road, easy access and perfect sites for 1 car and a tent. Only open during hunting seasons though.

Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Jan. 26, 2022

Very Small and not made for trailers.

This is a small road and if you had a camper of any size it would take you a while to turn around.    Very few places.   Like someone said earlier this is a place to pitch a tent or to Car Camp.

Reviewed Oct. 12, 2021

Very basic camping

Very easy to get too, right off interstate. very primitive but you have a decent signal if you need to park and get work done. Great spot to sleep if you are passing through!

Month of VisitOctober
Reviewed Sep. 11, 2020

Free during hunting season

Very primitive, but close to town if you need anything.  Sites are very close together, no privacy.  Most campers are here to hunt so are gone most of the day.  It was not crowded when I was there during the week. I was only there on a Tuesday.

Month of VisitSeptember
Reviewed Aug. 24, 2019

Very rustic dispersed camping

You have a fire ring and a line to hang things from thats about it here, really nice place to camp if youre comfortable not having a toilet. Saw one other person here come in with a 30 foot trailer, didnt think he would fit but found a spot just fine. And the best part is its FREE CAMPING!!

  • Review photo of Butner lake WMA by Max O., August 24, 2019
  • Review photo of Butner lake WMA by Max O., August 24, 2019
  • Review photo of Butner lake WMA by Max O., August 24, 2019
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of Butner lake WMA?

    Butner lake WMA is located at 328 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Butner lake WMA?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Butner lake WMA, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Butner lake WMA?

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