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Best Dispersed Camping near Badin, NC

17 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Badin, North Carolina centers primarily on Uwharrie National Forest, where several primitive sites exist for those seeking undeveloped camping experiences. The forest includes multiple areas designated for dispersed camping, with options ranging from sites along the Uwharrie Trail to secluded spots near the Little River. Birkhead Mountain Wilderness Area also permits free dispersed camping with hike-in access only. Another option is Dispersed Camping off Falls Dam Trail, which accommodates tent, RV, and cabin camping with drive-in access.

Most dispersed sites in Uwharrie National Forest are accessible via unpaved roads, though some areas require 4WD or high-clearance vehicles. Campers should be prepared for completely primitive conditions with no facilities at most locations. Sites along hiking trails like the Uwharrie Trail and Dutchman's Creek Trail require walking in with gear. While fires are generally permitted at established sites, campers must bring their own water or filter from streams. The dispersed camping areas typically have no toilets, trash service, or amenities, requiring strict adherence to leave-no-trace principles.

The dispersed camping experience in this region provides opportunities for solitude and immersion in nature. Multiple creek crossings can become challenging after heavy rainfall, and streams provide water sources for those with proper filtration equipment. The area supports various recreational activities including hiking, off-road vehicle trails, mountain biking, and paddling access points. "This area was one of my favorite areas for dispersed camping in Uwharrie National Forest while living in North Carolina. The area can be accessed by boat on the Little River, or by hiking in," noted a visitor. Another camper advised, "It should be no shock to those familiar with North Carolina's geography that if one is seeking higher altitudes and breathtaking overlooks, Uwharrie is not the place."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Badin, North Carolina (4)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Badin, NC

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Badin, NC

17 Reviews of 4 Badin Campgrounds

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

    Uwharrie National Forest

    Truly Primitive Camping in a National Forest

    Personally, I would give dispersed camping here four or five stars, but I have to be objective from the point of view of many campers. This is not an RV camping area, at least not the dispersed camping area. You cannot drive up to the campsites. There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups. There might be at the more developed campgrounds, but if you are camping along the Uwharrie Trail or the Dutchman’s Creek Trail, it is completely primitive. With that said, I have enjoyed camping in the Uwharrie National Forest. 

    This makes my third time in the Uwharrie National Forest. The first time was with a Royal Ranger Junior Training Trails group when I was a Royal Ranger leader. We camped along the Dutchman’s Creek Trail. The second time was with the Boy Scouts when we were preparing the boys for a longer backpacking trip to Philmont in New Mexico. This time was my third time, and I was by myself. I hiked along the creek at what was marked as campsite 1 along the Uwharrie Trail. It was a short hike and easy to moderate. Unfortunately, it wasn’t far enough away to hear distant noises from Hwy 24, so if you want to get away from traffic noise completely, hiker farther in. 

    Obviously, there are no facilities, so I had to take my own water and a water filter. Since I was close to a stream, I had to take care of personal business about two hundred feet farther away. There was evidence that others had been at this site because of the trash, but as always(and I am not patting myself on the back), I left the site cleaner than I found it. I am sure there are other views, but my favorite view was from Dennis Mountain, which is only about 700 feet above sea level. I didn’t make it to Dennis Mountain this time, and I wish I had taken pictures when I was there before. On my previous trips, I also wish I had taken more photos. Nevertheless, backpacking and camping in the Uwharrie Mountains gives you a sense of being in the wilderness.

  • Marvin D.
    Nov. 11, 2022

    Uwharrie National Forest

    Uwharrie National Forest

    Good challenging hiking, and plenty of campsites along the trails. This is a good place for a 'shakedown hike' if you ever plan on through hiking the AT. There are a few different trailheads, so you are never too far from your car or civilization. 23/27 trailhead has a decent sized parking lot and allows for overnight parking for backpacking etc. Rt 109 trailhead has slightly smaller parking.

    If you are car camping, there are established campsites for that, and you can basically disperse camp anywhere there is a site in the Uwharrie.

  • Wyatt M.
    May. 22, 2019

    Uwharrie National Forest

    Little River National Forest Area

    This area was one of my favorite ares for dispersed camping in Uwharrie National Forest while living in North Carolina. The area can be accessed by boat on the Little River, or by hiking in. Me and my friends would always float our kayaks down the river to a place we called "Bird Dog" and camp for the night. If you are looking for a place that has very little traffic, this is the place you want to go! This area would be limited to dispersed camping due to no campsites. It is a National Forest so be mindful of rules and regulations while visiting!

    link: 

    https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd485941.pdf

     There is a boat ramp where PEKIN ROAD crosses the Little River.  PLEASANT GROVE CHURCH ROAD pretty much cuts right through the area on the PDF.

  • b
    May. 22, 2021

    Uwharrie National Forest

    Uwharrie campground

    The State Forest has camping. We used our pop-up with a generator in rustic locations. There are hiking, horse, OHV, dirt bike, ATV, and mountain bike trails.

  • Misery C.
    Nov. 3, 2021

    Uwharrie National Forest

    Primitive camping

    We primitive camping here at least every other weekend. We love it. Great trails, beautiful scenery. A peaceful experience

  • Sean R.
    May. 30, 2019

    Uwharrie National Forest

    Backpacking In Uwharrie

    It should be no shock to those familiar with North Carolina’s geography that if one is seeking higher altitudes and breathtaking overlooks, Uwharrie is not the place he should go. Notwithstanding, as much of the higher elevations are impassable during the winter months, the forest offers backpackers an opportunity to stay on the trail a few days. The Uwharrie Trail, which pretty much spans the park north/south is about 20 miles point to point. The trailhead is kind of hard to follow sometimes, sections of the trail are prone to flooding and creek crossings can become difficult following heavy rains. Overall, however, the forest is a good place for backpacking in this region of the state. Th streams, provided one has filtration or iodine tablets, provide ample sources of drinking water.

  • Zachary S.
    Nov. 26, 2020

    Uwharrie National Forest

    Dispersed camping

    This is a great area for dispersed campers with 4WD or AWD. It's pretty popular so head out early to secure your spot. Some of the sites may have a little trash left from the last user, so please try to leave it cleaner than you came to. No toilets for disperesed areas. Most sites have rock fire pits and room to set up. Love it here. Plenty of OHV trails as well.

  • Wyatt M.
    May. 22, 2019

    Uwharrie National Forest

    Dispersed camping/hunting area

    This area was a place that I went often to deer hunt in the fall. I have never came across another camper/hunter at this location. It is a good location if you are looking for an area that is away from camp grounds and heavy traffic. I never shot a deer here but they are in the area.  The area is just SW of Troy, NC down HWY 109/24. On the map below, it is the most western forest area. 

    Link to Map: 

    https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd485941.pdf

  • Erica
    May. 26, 2019

    Uwharrie National Forest

    Great off-roading

    First time at Uwharrie and we drove about 5 hours to get there but it was worth it! It’s a huge area with several campgrounds. We stayed in 2 different dispersed primitive sites and they were both great. Plenty of space and trees and privacy! There are a 6 different stores/gas stations that have the overnight passes available for purchase. We got our passes from Eldorado outpost and the attendants there were very knowledgeable and helpful! We also took our Jeep on the OHV trails and had a blast. There are several places you can take a canoe or kayak on and the scenery on the lake was beautiful as well. They also have several hiking trails throughout. Canebrake horse camp is located in Uwharrie and has horse trails throughout. We didn’t come across a park store but they did have showers and bathrooms in the actual campgrounds. There’s a store/gas station (Eldorado Outpost) right down the road and they also have an air compressor for inflating tires (which is handy for off-roading). It was definitely a long drive but we will definitely be making the trip again. We really liked the secluded primitive campsites and the various trails we were able to take our Jeep on.

Guide to Badin

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Badin, North Carolina, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. This area offers numerous spots for those looking to escape into the wilderness without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Badin, North Carolina

  • Make sure to bring your own firewood, as some areas like Uwharrie National Forest do not provide it on-site, but allow campfires.

Dispersed campers should check out Birkhead Mountain Wilderness Area

Enjoy hiking and biking while free camping near Badin

  • For those who love outdoor adventures, Uwharrie National Forest offers a variety of trails suitable for both hiking and biking, making it an ideal spot for active campers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dispersed camping allowed at Badin Lake?

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed at Badin Lake within Uwharrie National Forest. This area offers primitive camping options without designated facilities. Dispersed camping in Uwharrie requires either hiking in or accessing via boat on the Little River. It's important to note that this is not suitable for RVs as you cannot drive directly to most dispersed sites. The forest follows standard dispersed camping regulations, requiring campers to set up at least 100 feet from water sources and trails. No permits are required for dispersed camping, but practice Leave No Trace principles and be prepared to pack out all trash.

Where are the best dispersed camping spots in Badin, NC?

The best dispersed camping spots near Badin are found in Birkhead Mountain Wilderness Area Dispersed, which offers well-maintained trails and creek access. These sites require hiking in but provide privacy and natural surroundings. Another excellent option is along the Little River, accessed by kayak or canoe, where secluded riverside spots are available. For those seeking more accessible options, sites along Robbins Branch Trail offer both drive-in and walk-in access. The best spots tend to fill up early, especially on weekends, so arrive early to secure your preferred location. Look for established sites with existing fire rings to minimize environmental impact.

What amenities are available for dispersed camping near Badin Lake?

Dispersed camping near Badin Lake offers a true primitive experience with minimal amenities. At Dispersed Camping off Falls Dam Trail, you'll find established camping spots, some with rock fire rings, but no formal facilities. There are no toilets, running water, or trash services at dispersed sites - you must pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Some dispersed areas have streams for filtering water (treatment required). Within a short drive, approximately 6 different stores/gas stations provide supplies, ice, and fuel. Cell service varies by location and carrier. Remember that these sites are primitive by design, requiring self-sufficiency and proper preparation.

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