Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping, near Linville, North Carolina, is a fantastic spot for those who crave a primitive camping experience surrounded by nature. This area offers a mix of serene campsites along a rugged road, perfect for setting up your tent and enjoying the great outdoors.

Visitors rave about the breathtaking views and the peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal location for a quiet getaway. Many appreciate the freedom to have campfires and the fact that it’s free to camp here, which is a big plus for budget-conscious adventurers. As one camper noted, “It’s simple and has breathtaking views,” highlighting the beauty of the surroundings.

The area is known for its accessibility, with several pull-off spots along the dirt road, although a vehicle with good clearance is recommended. Campers have enjoyed hiking down to the gorge and exploring nearby trails, with some mentioning the rewarding views after a challenging hike. 

While the campsites are close to the road, they still provide a sense of isolation, allowing you to unwind and connect with nature. Whether you’re looking to relax by the fire or embark on a hiking adventure, Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping offers a unique experience for those ready to embrace the wild.

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

Linville Falls is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Linville Falls, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Linville Falls, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Linville Falls

The Best Camping Near Linville Falls, North Carolina

Great camping


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. 

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. 

Perfect Primitive Camping/Backpacking

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. 

Nice spot off a dirt road

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.

Good Times at the Gorge!

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

Isolated and gorgeous

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.

Quick Stop for the night

So very useful 

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! 

Off of NC-105 

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

Easy

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

Good rest 

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. 

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

Real photos from real campers