Dispersed camping opportunities near Asheboro, North Carolina extend beyond the Uwharrie National Forest, with several primitive sites scattered throughout the region's rolling Piedmont terrain. The area sits at elevations between 500-1,000 feet, creating moderate temperature variations between seasons. Camping is typically most comfortable during spring and fall when temperatures range from 50-75°F, while summer humidity can make tent camping more challenging.
What to do
Fishing at multiple access points: Lake Tillery Family Campground offers convenient shore fishing with several species available. Campers report: "Great spot, great fishing. Beautiful area, lots of space on the lower ground, gorgeous views from the higher ground, and some damn good fishing."
Disc golf courses: Cedarock Park features two complete disc golf courses with a total of 36 holes. A visitor notes: "The park is also home to 6 miles of hiking trails and 6 miles of equestrian trails. There are two fantastic disc golf courses (I personally enjoy the Wellspring course)."
Historical exploration: Visit the 19th-century farm recreation at Cedarock Park to understand regional farming history. One camper mentioned: "There is a historical farm restored to the late 1800s time period" with demonstrations of period farming techniques during special events.
Wildlife observation: The remote settings provide opportunities for wildlife sightings. At Uwharrie Hunt Camp, a camper humorously noted: "Been camping here for about a year, still haven't seen big foot yet... but I'm still hopeful."
What campers like
Affordability of campsites: Several locations offer extremely budget-friendly options. One visitor to Uwharrie Hunt Camp was surprised: "$5 per night...What? What? We hit this campground right at the perfect time of year, BEFORE the opening day of off-road vehicle season in April."
Proximity to water features: Deep Water Trail Camp provides direct water access that campers appreciate. According to a review: "It was a nice spot, big open camping spots that are first come first serve. We brought our two pups & they had a blast playing & laying in the water!"
Mineral discoveries: The quartz formations in the region attract rock enthusiasts. A camper shared: "We enjoyed our weekend at this fantastic spot! The big pieces of quartz we found were gorgeous, and so was the view at the water!"
Private camping spots: For those seeking solitude, East Morris Mountain offers exceptional privacy. A visitor explained: "Only three sites on this little out of the way fire trail. We go to the end of the road for complete privacy. No amenities other than a fire pit."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many primitive sites require appropriate transportation. At Deep Water Trail Horse Camp, a visitor warned: "I would highly recommend 4WD if you're going all the way to the water sites. I attempted in my van and made it down to a sweet spot, but was stuck in the mud."
Seasonal closures: Some camping areas have restricted availability. Regarding East Morris Mountain, a camper pointed out: "This camp site is only open during hunting season," limiting access during certain months.
Park closing times: Some campgrounds lock gates after hours. At Cedarock Park, a camper cautioned: "The downside is they lock the gate at night and no one else is there so if you have an emergency or just need to leave you can't, you're literally stuck."
Trash management issues: Pack out all trash, as this is a common problem. A concerned visitor at Deep Water Trail Camp observed: "People. Why? Why are there piles of trash being left at campsites? I bagged up 4 large bags of garbage that some college aged kids just left."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Lake Curriher Wilderness offers a playground and paddle boat rentals that appeal to children. A visitor mentioned: "It's nice to have a little store (in the office) to grab bait, snacks, or other goodies."
Creek access for play: Several sites feature shallow water perfect for children. One family at Cedarock Park shared: "We used the fire pit and the kids played in the creek. While staying at the park we went on hikes, fished, and played disc golf. It was a great time!"
Noise considerations: Some sites experience road noise that might disturb light sleepers. A family noted: "The only downside is the road noise at night - it was very loud. Next time we will bring something to help quiet the noise."
Security presence: Some campgrounds have staff nearby for added security. A camper at Lake Curriher Wilderness appreciated: "The gates close at 5pm during the fall/winter. Slightly around that time, the retired police chief came around to introduce himself and give his cell number."
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: For RV campers, most tent camping sites near Asheboro have significant access limitations. At San-Lee Park, a visitor clarified: "Reservations are not taken, but rather, tent campers (no RV's welcomed here, just tents) can book a campsite on a first-come, first-served basis."
RV site spacing: The few campgrounds that do accommodate RVs typically have limited privacy. A visitor to San-Lee Park explained: "It's almost like one big group site. The sites have fire pits, grills, tables, and there are a couple of water spigots on the site."
Seasonal considerations: RV campers should plan around peak usage times. At Uwharrie Hunt Camp, a visitor noted: "The campground is a quaint, and only $5 per night! With only 6 sites and what appears to be an over-sized parking lot right next to it, the lot accommodates the OHV trailers."
