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Map showing campground location near Durham, North Carolina
Camper submitted image from MST Section 23 Falls Lake CampingView 4 Photos
NatureMap showing campground location near Durham, North Carolina

MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping

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SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Free and hike-in only, this authorized campsite sits on private land along Section 23 of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, roughly one mile from roadside parking on Red Mill Road. No water or toilet facilities are on-site. The area includes a shelter, an established fire pit, and seven tent pads sized for two-person tents, making it a functional overnight stop for MST thru-hikers or day-trippers extending into an overnight. Campers who want places to camp near Durham with more facilities will find alternatives, but this site is best suited to Leave No Trace-minded hikers who can self-support fully. A two-night maximum stay applies, and the landowner's continued access depends on campers packing out all trash.

Fee Info

This is on private land. Please respect the surroundings. No fees.

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Map & DirectionsMST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping is located in North Carolina near Durham

Detail location of campground
Private Campground

Coordinates

36.07275571 N
78.83450082 W

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Connectivity

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    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
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    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • 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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Reviews1 Camper Review - MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping

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1 Review

Reviewed Aug. 4, 2020

A great spot for MST hikers

This is a hidden gem for a MST hiker. The campground is located on a private land, has a shelter, a fire pit, and a number of tent sites. It's a hike in only campground, located approximately 1 mile from the roadside parking on Red Mill Road, Durham NC. 

The information can be found here:

There is an authorized camping area available on private property in this section of the Falls Lake Trail(between Red Mill Road and Old Oxford Road). Follow the blue-blazed trail off the MST approximately 1 mile west of Red Mill Road. NOTE: This campsite is on private property. It is a HUGE PRIVILEGE to be allowed to camp at this location. Vandalism, neglect or any trash left at this campsite could result in closing of this campsite by the landowner. No water or toilet facilities are provided. There are seven established campsite pads for 2-person tents. Campsite rules:(1) Practice Leave No Trace ethics.(2) Do NOT leave any trash. Pack it in= Pack it out.(3) There is a 2-night maximum stay.(4) Do NOT explore past a 75 yard radius of the Shelter.(5) NO FIRES except in the established fire pit.

Month of VisitDecember
  • Review photo of MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping by Katy S., August 4, 2020
  • Review photo of MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping by Katy S., August 4, 2020
  • Review photo of MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping by Katy S., August 4, 2020
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Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Falls Lake Campground?

This primitive campground offers basic amenities designed for hikers and backpackers. Facilities include a shelter, a fire pit, and several designated tent sites. The campground is minimalist by design, catering primarily to MST hikers looking for an overnight stop along their journey. There are no electricity, running water, or modern bathroom facilities, so campers should come prepared with all necessary supplies.

Is the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST) section 23 accessible from Falls Lake Campground?

Yes, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST) section 23 is directly accessible from the campground. In fact, the campground is specifically designed for MST hikers and is situated along the trail itself. This makes it an ideal overnight stop for those hiking this section of the MST, allowing direct trail access without detours.

Where is Falls Lake Camping located in Durham, NC?

MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping is located on private land near Red Mill Road in Durham, NC. The campground is a hike-in only site situated approximately 1 mile from the roadside parking area on Red Mill Road. It's positioned along the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST) section 23, making it an ideal stop for hikers traversing this trail system.

Do I need reservations for camping at Falls Lake in Durham?

The MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping area is a specialized hiker campground that may have different reservation policies than the main Falls Lake Recreation Area campgrounds. Since it's on private land and specifically serves MST hikers, it's advisable to check current reservation requirements before planning your trip. Contact the MST trail organization or local trail maintainers for the most up-to-date information about camping at this specific site.

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