Best Dispersed Camping near Asheville, NC
Pisgah National Forest hosts several free dispersed camping areas within 30-40 minutes of Asheville, with Wash Creek and Mills River areas providing the most options. These primitive sites typically feature level tent pads, established fire rings, and some offer creek access with no other facilities. Access is via maintained gravel roads that can be navigated in standard vehicles, though some sites require high clearance.
Theft has been reported at several locations, particularly at Wash Creek and Mills River dispersed sites. One camper warned, "They have a long term camper they refuse to run off and he will steal from you." Multiple sites near water provide natural ambiance but can become problematic during heavy rain. Cell service is nonexistent at most locations, with several visitors noting complete disconnection from civilization. As one visitor mentioned, "No cell service without driving 10 minutes, and then patchy for another 10-15." Some areas including portions of Pisgah National Forest remain closed for flood reconstruction as of mid-2025.