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Best Dispersed Camping near Asheville, NC

109 Reviews

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.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Asheville, North Carolina (34)

    1. Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4 and #5

    5 Reviews
    Mills River, NC
    9 miles

    "First the sight is beautiful and most have a beautiful trout stream close by when navigating if using Apple Maps pay attention to where it is routing you mine wanted me to walk through the woods for an"

    "I was looking for an easy and free site to post up for several days near Asheville and this was all I needed. Primitive site and right next to another."

    2. Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off

    2 Reviews
    Mills River, NC
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    "The forest road is very bumpy and narrow, but high clearance is not needed. Very low light pollution and the bare trees allowed for some great star gazing."

    3. Pisgah National Forest Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    Barnardsville, NC
    19 miles

    "I stayed at the second one up the dirt road. It wasn't officially designated but it was used as a campsite. You'll need four wheel drive to get in and out of it though."

    "There is free camping all through out these woods & plenty of water access. Trails out the wazoo! Our doggies love the trails & there are quite a few family friendly paths."

    4. Henderson Reservoir Dispersed Site #1

    2 Reviews
    Mills River, NC
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    5. Mills River Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Mills River, NC
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    "*this is just for the free campsites- there appears to be paid campsites and maybe RV hook ups very close by."

    6. Wash Creek Dispersed Site #2

    1 Review
    Mills River, NC
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    7. Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping

    6 Reviews
    Balsam Grove, NC
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    "Perfect for tent camping right off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Campsites are next to the road under the pine trees or you can camp on top of the mountain."

    "You MUST camp outside of 1000ft from road. You WILL get investigated by park Rangers, which stepped up enforcement of this stupid, pointless law around 2 years ago."

    8. Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites

    8 Reviews
    Balsam Grove, NC
    24 miles
    Website

    "Right off the road, the short couple yards dirt road entrance to the campsite had a couple big pot holes that requires accurate driving around, but the campsite had at least three spots for seclusion for"

    "Good place for me to overnight, there are no facilities, the entrance is a bit hidden google maps will get you very close look for the small tent sign on your right when headed away from the parkway my"

    9. Upper Cove Creek - UCC2 Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Brevard, NC
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    "Not 100% sure it is a spot as it is not marked but signs may have been damaged and it does show a tent symbol on the forest service map."

    "There’s a shallow creek that runs next to this spot."

    10. Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Balsam Grove, NC
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    "All dirt roads back here. Beautiful waterfall (whaleback falls I think?) just a quick 15 minute walk across the river and up the trail (follow Daniel ridge trail loop from parking lot)."

    "With that said:

    • remote- you have to want to get up here but it's really easy to do once you drive it a few times.

    *clearly marked spots. I am actually located at ucc-2. ** The Dead End spot."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Asheville, NC

94 Photos of 34 Asheville Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Asheville, NC

109 Reviews of 34 Asheville Campgrounds

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2021

    Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites

    Free Camping but Lots of Foot Traffic

    There are two great things about this campsite. It’s free, and it is close to great views of the mountains near the Blue Ridge Parkway. Located off of Highway 215, you do hear road noise, but that is not too much of a problem. During the day, you get a lot of day use hikers since the largest campsite is right beside the trail. There is a large flat area to set your tent if you are lucky enough to be the first one there, and there is a fire pit. Beyond that, there are no facilities. You can hear the sounds of water all night long from Flat Laurel Creek. The last time I was in that area, I tried to cross Flat Laurel Creek over slippery rocks against my better judgment, and the weather was in the upper 30s. I fell, got soaked, and nearly froze to death. This time, it was summer and I learned to cross in my bare feet despite the fact that the rocks were dry this time. The trail eventually takes you to Sam’s Knob, which offers beautiful views, and there is lots of scenery along the way. This campsite is fairly high in elevation, so it gets cool at night. Don’t make the mistake of taking a summer sleeping bag. You could, but you take a chance of being cold even during the peak of summer. This is not a good place for RVs or travel trailers. It is mainly for tent camping even though you do not have to hike in. Just make sure to take water or a water filter. Overall, I recommend this campsite if you are going to hike somewhere else during the day. However, you will not get solitude of any kind here because of all the day hikers.

  • Jim M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 20, 2024

    FS 289 Pull Off

    Great dispersed site in the Pisgah NF

    Great Campsite along the Smoky Mountain 1000 Overland route. You need a good off road capable vehicle to access this site but it is very peaceful with a nice stream running by. Tent camping near the jeep or a high clearance overland teardrop should make it back here ok but not recommended for regular RV's.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 5, 2020

    Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed Camping with Great Views Close

    Although you can camp just about anywhere in Pisgah National Forest, there are specific sites near the trailhead to Sam Knob. This area is known as Black Balsam. There are no RV sites, and you have to hike about a hundred yards or less to the sites, unless you camp on the bald. The sites had lots of roots, so it was difficult to find a level site without roots all over the area. With that said, it is a good place to camp, and it is just a short walk to the pit toilet, which is also at the trailhead. There are fire pits, but there are no lantern hangers or tent pads. Expect to hear lots of cars and people during the busy months about 200 feet away. Because of that, a better place to stay is at the top of Sam Knob, which you can do. That was a better choice for me since I try to stay away from crowds as much as I can. However, you cannot clear or make a new spot; you have to“find” a spot in which you do not disturb the area. You will need a freestanding tent since you will probably be pitching it on solid rock. 

    The biggest problem with staying on the knob is the weather. Unfortunately, it poured rain and was windy when I was there. I expected it to be windy, but mixed with the rain, it made it unpleasant. Sam Knob is a heather bald, so that gives you a little privacy. However, expect a hikers to end up there since it is a hiking destination and the views are great. 

    Overall, it is a good place to camp, but there will be people close by no matter where you pitch your tent, whether it is a hundred yards from the parking lot or up on top of Sam Knob.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 25, 2023

    Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4 and #5

    Great camping spot

    First the sight is beautiful and most have a beautiful trout stream close by when navigating if using Apple Maps pay attention to where it is routing you mine wanted me to walk through the woods for an hour to get here it’s easier to find if you navigate to north mill’s campground first second there are signs about being a high crime area and they are not kidding while I was out picking up a few things at ingles someone came by and took my tent and sleeping bag that was inside I wouldn’t leave anything valuable to mark it as your sight and I have T mobile and I lost service about 10 mins from the campground and had no signal while staying there

  • Alyssa E.
    Jul. 27, 2021

    Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful, safe, peaceful, and fast cell service!

    There are so many sites tucked along this dirt road and some incredible views! I spent almost 14 days here and almost didn't want to leave! The dirt road must've been regraded in the past year as it is easily drivable. I stayed in several sites further up the road and they're all good options! There is traffic, but not much. I have 5G service on both Verizon and Sprint/Tmobile (Verizon has a better signal). Lake James State Park has water at the picnic shelters. The water pump at the Catawba River entrance allows you to connect a hose to it while the Paddy Creek is better for using containers. I'm not confident it's potable water though there's no sign saying it's not. I was using jugs at Paddy Creek and noticed tiny things in the water. Went to Catawba and didn't find anything in the water, but filtered it to be safe.

  • Julie L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 16, 2021

    Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he

    Good Times at the Gorge!

    These are pretty decent sites. You just pull off the road, set up and enjoy the camping experience. 
    We hiked down to the gorge and also enjoyed the dispersed camping available right along the riverside, which was pretty cool but... that hike back up is a DOOZY especially with a pack on. I would recommend it. The payoff of the views is highly worth any trail difficulties. 
    This was a really clean, well respected area. I liked to see that most other campers were clearly doing their part to Leave no Trace.

  • K
    May. 15, 2021

    Victor Road Dispersed

    On the fly

    My husband and I took a road trip and needed to find a spot to car camp last minute in the area. The narrow road to go up/down is alittle sketchy but we made it. The first two spots were taken so we drove to the end where it seperated to private drives. There was a fire pit and a trail that we didn't explore. Our 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee didn't take up much space. There was plenty of space for a wider vehicle or multiple. There's literally no amenities which was no issue for us since we had what we needed, no cell service(Verizon) but no issues for us. We enjoyed the peace and quiet, other than the stream near by. Other than a deer that left its tracks nearby, nothing bothered us. --Visited May 9th-10th--

  • Tony F.
    Aug. 7, 2020

    Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites

    Very nice, great location

    Really isn't much to this campsite. Right off the road, the short couple yards dirt road entrance to the campsite had a couple big pot holes that requires accurate driving around, but the campsite had at least three spots for seclusion for both tent camping and car camping, which I did. Also, there's a little trail to a waterfall after you go down the old logging road and follow the path across the creek. Very short, very easy about 0.5 mile or less from the creek. Also, very close to the Blue Ridge Parkway makes it a great spot.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 4, 2024

    Paint Creek Corridor

    Paint Creek Dispersed Camping

    The national forest service website says there are dispersed camping site throughout the corridor; however, I was only able to locate one and luckily it was vacant. There are several spots along the road that may have been for dispersed camping as some point but are now clearly marked with no camping signs. I did enjoy my stay here but I’m a little disappointed in the website saying there were multiple sites … i has to drive almost 4 hours to get there and would have been super disappointed if I arrived to no spots. Also a lot of trash in the area of the site sadly.

Guide to Asheville

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Asheville, North Carolina, where nature lovers can find serene spots to pitch their tents and enjoy the great outdoors. With stunning landscapes and a variety of activities, these locations offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Asheville

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Wash Creek

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Asheville, North Carolina

  • Always check your navigation before heading to Mills River Dispersed, as GPS can sometimes lead you astray; it's best to have a backup plan.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities at sites like Sunburst Dispersed Camping, where you’ll need to bring your own water and supplies.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings, especially at popular spots like Wash Creek Dispersed Site #2, where theft has been reported; securing valuables is essential for a worry-free stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Asheville, NC?

Pisgah National Forest offers numerous free dispersed camping options around Asheville. Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping features multiple sites along a dirt road with incredible mountain views, suitable for extended stays. For those seeking riverside camping, Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section provides pull-offs along Kistler Memorial Highway with opportunities to camp near the river (though the hike back up is challenging). Both areas are accessible via dirt roads that most standard vehicles can navigate, though conditions may vary seasonally.

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in North Carolina forests around Asheville?

Dispersed camping in National Forests around Asheville follows several key regulations. In areas like Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping within Pisgah National Forest, camping is typically limited to 14 consecutive days. Camp at least 100 feet from water sources, trails, and developed recreation areas. Use existing fire rings where available, and check current fire restrictions—permits may be required seasonally. Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites and similar areas require visitors to pack out all trash. Bear-resistant food storage is strongly recommended. Some areas may have seasonal closures or require free permits, so check with the appropriate ranger district before your trip.

Is car camping allowed at dispersed sites near Asheville and what should I bring?

Car camping is permitted at many dispersed sites near Asheville. Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites offers multiple spots suitable for both tent and car camping right off Highway 215, with easy access to mountain views along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Victor Road Dispersed also accommodates car camping, though the narrow access road requires careful driving. For car camping essentials, bring a self-contained water supply, portable toilet or waste bags, food storage containers to prevent wildlife encounters, fire tools if fires are permitted, and extra layers for variable mountain temperatures. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash.

What is the best season for dispersed camping around Asheville and how does weather affect camping options?

Late spring through early fall (May-October) offers the best conditions for dispersed camping around Asheville, with summer providing reliable access to higher elevation sites like FS 289 Pull Off. Fall brings spectacular foliage but increased competition for sites. Winter camping is possible at lower elevations, as demonstrated by campers at Paint Creek Corridor, though mountain roads can become impassable after snow or heavy rain. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers but unpredictable precipitation. Weather affects road conditions significantly—high-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing remote sites year-round, and many forest roads may close entirely during winter months. Always check recent weather reports and road conditions before heading out.

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