Within Nantahala National Forest, Mooney Gap Backcountry Group Campsite provides free group camping for backpackers near the Appalachian Trail. This hike-in site sits close to the Mooney Gap trailhead and offers access to Albert Firetower. The US Forest Service allows campfires, pets, and alcohol at this dispersed location. Water access requires planning since no source is immediately available on-site, though the proximity to the parking area makes carrying supplies manageable. Campers should stick to established trails, as some paths don't connect back to main routes. The site works well for boondocking near Nantahala National Forest groups planning AT section hikes.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsMooney Gap Backcountry Group Campsite is located in North Carolina near Otto
Coordinates
35.03738911 N
83.47039627 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 11/19/25
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 11/19/25
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Features
For Campers
- Drinking Water
- 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 Mooney Gap Backcountry Group Campsite needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 41 min from Gainesville, GA
- 1 hr 48 min from Asheville, NC
