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Dispersed Camping

Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he

About

National Forest

Welcome to Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping in the Western Section of North Carolina. This spot is a gem for those who love a no-frills, back-to-nature camping experience. If you’re looking for a place where you can just pull off the road, set up your tent, and enjoy the serenity of the wilderness, you’ve found it.

The area offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Some visitors have mentioned that the road up to the campsites can be a bit steep and bumpy, so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended. But don’t worry, even if you only have a car, you might still make it through—just take it slow and steady.

One of the standout features here is the allowance of campfires, which is a big plus for those who enjoy sitting around the fire under the stars. Pets are welcome too, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure. And if you’re worried about amenities, you’ll be pleased to know that there are toilets and drinking water available, making your stay a bit more comfortable.

The campsites are scattered along the road, with some offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. There are also a few group-sized sites, perfect for those camping with friends or family. If you’re into hiking, there are trails nearby that offer a great way to explore the area.

Linville Gorge Wilderness is about 30 minutes from the nearest town, so while you’re out in the wild, you’re not completely isolated. This makes it easy to pop into town if you need to restock supplies or just want a change of scenery.

So, pack your gear, grab some firewood, and head out to Linville Gorge Wilderness for a camping experience that’s both rugged and rewarding.

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Location

Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he is located in North Carolina

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

35.95119070493702 N
81.93492842564883 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
    Available
  • AT&T
    Available
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • WiFi
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • Pull-Through Sites

Reviews

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5 Stars

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1 Star

59%
10%
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0%

4.0

out of 5

12 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 21, 2023

Breath Taking views

The road up to the campsites is pretty steep and bumpy. Wouldn't recommend a car but saw several go through. There are a handful of sites on either side of the road. Some have steep drop offs off the side of the mountain so be careful. A few group sized sites with misc trails to wonder. Very quiet and serene but only 30 minutes from town.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Sara S., June 21, 2023
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Sara S., June 21, 2023
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Sara S., June 21, 2023
Reviewed Mar. 21, 2023

Good rest

Very primitive but a great and free place to get some dark pea e and quiet

Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Arthur D., March 21, 2023
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Arthur D., March 21, 2023
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Arthur D., March 21, 2023
Reviewed Feb. 20, 2023

Easy

It was very easy to get a spot but there weren’t great views and there is not much to do

Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by John R., February 20, 2023
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  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by John R., February 20, 2023
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Apr. 2, 2022

Off of NC-105

We drove up on a Saturday and it wasn’t too crowded, definitely people around but plenty of open campsites. There were a couple of good washouts in the road, so 4WD or AWD would be recommended but maybe not required. Several good spots to pull in with a vehicle. We found a big spot but it was right next to the road (most of the campsites were), but it was still quiet enough - only one car that drove by at night.

We had a view of Table Rock and plenty of space for the two of us and our dog.

3 stars because of the proximity of the campsites to the road, as well as many of the campsites needing to be picked up after the last campers (we checked out at least 10 other spots before deciding where we wanted to stay).

Overall, a nice visit!

Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Raquella 🥸., April 2, 2022
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Raquella 🥸., April 2, 2022
Reviewed Mar. 6, 2022

So very useful

I love how they get me where I'm going

Sitewarrior creek
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Aug. 9, 2021

Quick Stop for the night

It was very packed lots of people. Seemed very beautiful except the only spot we found was on a hill and it was very rocky but it was good enough for the night.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Noah S., August 9, 2021
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Reviewed Jul. 8, 2021

Isolated and gorgeous

Primitive campsites for tent/ENO camping. Which is personally my favorite kind of camping. It’s simple and has breathtaking views

Siteanywhere
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Peter H., July 8, 2021
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Peter H., July 8, 2021
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Peter H., July 8, 2021
Reviewed Apr. 16, 2021

Good Times at the Gorge!

These are pretty decent sites. You just pull off the road, set up and enjoy the camping experience. 
We hiked down to the gorge and also enjoyed the dispersed camping available right along the riverside, which was pretty cool but... that hike back up is a DOOZY especially with a pack on. I would recommend it. The payoff of the views is highly worth any trail difficulties. 
This was a really clean, well respected area. I liked to see that most other campers were clearly doing their part to Leave no Trace.

SiteDispersed
Month of VisitFebruary
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Julie L., April 16, 2021
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Julie L., April 16, 2021
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Julie L., April 16, 2021
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Dec. 27, 2020

Nice spot off a dirt road

Lots of pull offs off a dirt road. Beware if you’re coming from the south google tries to take you through private property. Take 221 to linville falls, right on 183, and right onto kistler memorial highway. It’s a dirt road but no issues with my Subaru Forester. I camped here in December 2020 and didn’t see anyone else. Plenty of wood, but not much of a view from my camp anyway. Lots of camps.

Reviewed Nov. 3, 2020

Perfect Primitive Camping/Backpacking

Great free primitive camping. If all you need is a fire and a tent, this is the spot for you. The Linville Loop is also an amazing 3-4 day backpacking trip for anyone up to the challenge.

  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Jolie L., November 3, 2020
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Jolie L., November 3, 2020
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Jolie L., November 3, 2020
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Sep. 28, 2020

Ok

Stayed here a for a few nights in July of 2020. Rain was an issue and bugs were pretty bad. Lots of sites along the road with fire pits. Very difficult to get a fire started due to how damp everything was. The road was a bit rough in spots but 4x4 isn’t necessary. I hiked down to the river where the waterfall is and that was pretty cool. Moderate difficulty on that trail.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Monte W., September 28, 2020
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Monte W., September 28, 2020
  • Review photo of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he by Monte W., September 28, 2020
  • (6) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he have RV hookups?

According to TheDyrt.com, Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he has water hookups and sewer hookups.

What is the elevation of Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he?

Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he is located at 3279 feet.

Are fires allowed at Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

Does Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he have wifi?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he does have wifi.

Is there cell phone reception at Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he?

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