This free backcountry site along the Appalachian Trail provides space for one to two tents with an established fire pit in a small clearing. Hikers access the site on foot, and the location can flood after heavy rain according to recent visitors. No water source sits nearby, requiring campers to carry in supplies or hike some distance to find water.
The site sits close to overlook spots and connects to other backcountry camping options, including Bearpen Gap Backcountry Site just 0.3 miles north. While not the most luxurious option in the area, it serves AT through-hikers and backpackers who need a designated camping spot with fire privileges in this section of western North Carolina.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingMooney to Bearpen Gap Backcountry Campground is located in North Carolina
Coordinates
35.0421453 N
83.4712044 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 11/19/25
VerizonLTESome Coverage
AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 11/19/25
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- 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 to Bearpen Gap Backcountry Campground needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 46 min from Gainesville, GA
- 1 hr 54 min from Asheville, NC
