Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Bakersville, NC is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Bakersville is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Bakersville, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.
"There's no signs that this is a campsite at all other than the fire pits, but the sites were tucked away and you could pull your car right up"
"We often camp in and around the Linville Gorge area, mostly in the primitive campsites down in the Gorge on Linville River."
"Free sites, first come first serve. Definitely some disrespectful neighbors but sites aren't closely packed."
"There are three campsites located in Victor Road."
"This was truly one of my most memorable campsites I’ve ever stayed at."
"This is one of many forest roads in this area with free camping. I went during the week and had the entire area to myself."
"Camping spots are available all along the road some with better views than others."
"Great camping spot with access to the creek for swimming"
LegendJust on the edge of Watauga Lake sits this free dispersed camping area that is perfect for tent camping only. This is a park outside the gate and walk your gear in type of place, some bring your IKEA bags or a wagon. Opportunities for fishing and boating are abundant. Most of campsites are large, very shaded, and have at least one fire ring. A handful of sites have direct water access, and are more private.
There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or even pit toilet, so come prepared. The only major problem is that folks tend to leave a ton of trash around, so we spent about an hour cleaning the entire campground. Please Leave No Trace! Also, we would not recommend camping here on a busy weekend because the road is very close and the trucks are very loud!
The nearest town is Butler, which is small but offers the basics such as groceries and gas.
GuideThe 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.
GuideThis was our first stop on our first trip to North Carolina and now we don’t want to leave! We drove the entire road between Lake James and Linville Falls and there are tons of good spots for boondocking and hiking. About 5 camping spots along the road have breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, hills and valleys. Those spots are obviously the first to go, so come early or on a weekday for those. Otherwise, there are a ton of other great spots. The road itself is all dirt and gravel and can get a little rough. It’s much easier with a 4WD vehicle, but we saw sedans and minivans driving it.
GuideThis is my favorite spot in the pisgah national forest . I have stayed at all the free campsites around and left my review for each. This is by far the quietest, nicest, cleanest , site yet ! There are plenty of sites to pick from all along the creek , all of which appear to be well maintained , each with a fire ring . The road is pretty well maintained other than a few spots that you have to crawl through on the corners specifically. I drive a Toyota Camry that sits fairly low and I made it fine . My favorite part is definitely The creek , it is a great spot to swim so we are excited about that . There is a walking trail at the end of the road about 100 feet from our site , that had the best swimming hole at the end of it , where you can jump in. It has a couple small waterfalls to add to the ambience. The site is very clean other than some glass that I’ve been picking up . Definitely highly recommend these camp sites out of any others in the pisgah national forest! this area is beautiful and pure peace compared to the others in the area !
TravelerThere 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.
TravelerSeveral dispersed camping sites where you can easily park a vehicle. There are several along Roses Creek road and along New Ginger Cake road.
GuideThis is one of many forest roads in this area with free camping. I went during the week and had the entire area to myself. The ground wood for campfires is very abundant and many of the sites are appropriate for groups. There are numerous waterfalls to hike to, one of which is a short hike from the end of the end of the road.
RangerGreat free primitive camping. If all you need is a fire and a tent, this is the spot for you. The Linville Loop is also an amazing 3-4 day backpacking trip for anyone up to the challenge.
RangerThese 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.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Bakersville, North Carolina, where nature lovers can find serene spots to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, there's something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Bakersville, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Bakersville, NC is Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping with a 4.4-star rating from 21 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Bakersville, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 25 dispersed camping locations near Bakersville, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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