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Map showing campground location near Balsam Grove, North Carolina
Camper submitted image from Courthouse 1 -- Pisgah National ForestView 11 Photos
RoadsMap showing campground location near Balsam Grove, North Carolina

Courthouse 1 -- Pisgah National Forest

3 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Free camping along a gravel forest road, Courthouse 1 sits beside a creek in Pisgah National Forest with two fire pits and drive-in access. No facilities means no toilets, and the creek-hugging terrain makes it genuinely difficult to get 200 feet from water for waste disposal, a real constraint tent campers should plan around. The flat ground on the far side of the creek adds another practical wrinkle. Bring a trowel and research Leave No Trace protocols before arriving. Courthouse Falls is roughly a half-mile hike up the road, making this a workable base for that trip. Campers looking for camping spots near Balsam Grove will find this one of the more rustic options in the area.

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Map & DirectionsCourthouse 1 -- Pisgah National Forest is located in North Carolina near Balsam Grove

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

35.25503619 N
82.889387 W

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Connectivity

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    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 7/27/26
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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 7/27/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Courthouse 1 -- Pisgah National Forest

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5 Stars

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1 Star

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34%
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33%
33%

2.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Visitors appreciated the peaceful creek-side setting and proximity to Courthouse Falls. However, primitive conditions with no facilities and access challenges were common concerns.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Aug. 9, 2021

Nice site right next to creek

This site was perfect being right next to the water. Only problem is the main flat area is on the other site of the creek but other than that it was a beautiful spot.

Siteon a turn right on the creek
Month of VisitAugust
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  • Review photo of Courthouse 1 -- Pisgah National Forest by Noah S., August 9, 2021
Reviewed Aug. 1, 2021

Dispersed Camping Site Close to Courthouse Falls

To get to this camping area, you have to travel down a forest road with a gravel bed. It is in a great spot, other than being beside the road. There are two fire pits and both places are beside the creek. Since it is primitive camping, there are no facilities, but you get the benefit of being away from people. However, to do the business of going to the“bathroom,” there will not be much privacy. Another problem is that you are encouraged to do your dirty work at least 200 feet away from water sources. That presents a problem since it’s difficult to go 200 feet away unless you climb a cliff or walk down the road. Nevertheless, staying here is so peaceful because you hear the sounds of the creek all night long. The biggest attraction, other than the solitude, is Courthouse Falls. To get there, it’s best to drive further up the road(and I do mean“up”) and park beside the road. There will be a trail sign on the left just past one of the bridges, and the hike is about a half mile or less. When I went, I walked past the falls because I heard the water but didn’t see the falls because of all the dense foliage. I finally got back to the falls to take pictures. I found out too late that there is a side trail somewhere that takes you to the base of the falls. If I ever go back, I will try to find that trail. Normally, I would give this camping area four or five stars, but there was standing water near the campsite, and finding a place to do your private duty was difficult. A small RV or travel trailer MIGHT be able to park here, but be aware of the bumpy gravel road. Overall, it was a good experience and I would recommend it, especially for tent campers.

SiteCH1
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Courthouse 1 -- Pisgah National Forest by Myron C., August 1, 2021
  • Review photo of Courthouse 1 -- Pisgah National Forest by Myron C., August 1, 2021
  • Review photo of Courthouse 1 -- Pisgah National Forest by Myron C., August 1, 2021
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Frequently Asked Questions

What private campgrounds are near Pisgah National Forest?

While Courthouse 1 is a primitive forest site within Pisgah National Forest itself, the surrounding area has several private campground options. These private facilities typically offer more amenities like showers, electrical hookups, and camp stores compared to the primitive experience at Courthouse 1. For travelers seeking a balance between forest proximity and modern conveniences, check with the Pisgah National Forest visitor center for recommendations on nearby private campgrounds that suit your specific needs and camping style.

Do you need camping permits in Pisgah National Forest?

Primitive camping at Courthouse 1 and similar dispersed sites in Pisgah National Forest typically doesn't require advance permits, but there are regulations to follow. The forest operates on a first-come, first-served basis for these primitive sites. However, some areas within the forest may have specific restrictions or seasonal permit requirements. Contact the Pisgah Ranger District office before your trip to verify current regulations and whether any fire restrictions are in place.

What amenities are available at Pisgah National Forest campgrounds?

Courthouse 1 is a primitive campsite without facilities or developed amenities. It features two fire pits and creekside camping, but lacks toilets, running water, or garbage service. Campers need to pack in all supplies and pack out all trash. The site is accessible via a gravel forest road, which may present challenges during inclement weather. For those seeking more amenities, Pisgah National Forest also offers developed campgrounds with vault toilets, picnic tables, and potable water, but Courthouse 1 provides a more rustic, off-grid experience.

Where are the best camping spots in Pisgah National Forest?

At Courthouse 1 in Pisgah National Forest, the best camping spots are located right beside the creek. There are two distinct sites, both with fire pits and creek access. The main flat camping area is situated across the creek, providing an excellent spot for tent setup. This primitive campsite offers a secluded experience away from developed campgrounds, though its location beside a road means you'll have some passing traffic. The creekside location makes it particularly appealing for those who enjoy the sound of running water while camping.

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