Best Dispersed Camping near Banner Elk, NC

Alaska offers a diverse range of camping experiences across its vast wilderness areas, with numerous established campgrounds providing access to stunning natural landscapes. Campgrounds like Homer Spit Campground and Eklutna Lake Campground in Chugach State Park accommodate various camping styles including tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and cabin options. The region includes several state park campgrounds, national forest sites, and city-operated facilities that provide different levels of amenities, from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks with electric, water, and sewer connections.

Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping in Alaska, with most campgrounds operating from May through September. Winter camping is available at select locations like Riley Creek Campground in Denali National Park, which remains open year-round. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during the peak summer months when tourism increases. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and visitors should prepare for mosquitoes, wildlife encounters, and potentially challenging access roads. As one camper noted about Tangle Lakes Campground, "Tangle lakes campground has nice clean sites, lots of hiking (some a small drive) boat launch, bathrooms can be a bit of a walk from some sites. In mid August the little nats were horrible but that's camping in Alaska!"

Waterfront camping locations receive consistently positive reviews, with lakeside and riverside sites being particularly popular. Mendenhall Lake Campground offers views of the famous Mendenhall Glacier, while Seward City Campgrounds provides oceanfront RV sites with walking access to boat excursions and the Alaska Sea Life Center. Campgrounds in the Kenai Peninsula region serve as convenient bases for fishing excursions. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant throughout Alaska's campgrounds, with bears and other wildlife frequently spotted. A visitor to Mendenhall Lake Campground remarked, "Bears frequent this area and sometimes wolves too. If you are looking for that wild Alaska experience you can have it here. Lots of hiking around there." Campers consistently mention the spectacular mountain views, glacier access, and pristine natural settings as highlights of camping in Alaska.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Banner Elk, North Carolina (23)

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

    13 Reviews
    Linville Falls, NC
    15 miles
    Website

    "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."

    "Lots of pull offs off a dirt road. Beware if you’re coming from the south google tries to take you through private property."

    2. Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry

    3 Reviews
    Roan Mountain, NC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 689-9694

    "Beautiful 6000’ bald off the AT and along the state line between North Carolina and Tennessee, plenty of places to pitch a tent. Firewood is scarce so bring a lantern and cook stove."

    "The Appalachian Trail is frequently referred to as The Green Tunnel because of the amazing wormhole effect of trees, rhododendron and other vegetation that shroud your views. But not here!"

    3. Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping

    21 Reviews
    Linville, NC
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 257-4200

    "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!"

    "Absolutely beautiful area and one of my new favorite wilderness areas on the east side of the country."

    4. Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC

    4 Reviews
    Jonas Ridge, NC
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 257-4200

    "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."

    "very nice and beautiful camped right next to the upper creek. the state road was in good shape but steep narrow and lots of switch backs but well worth it"

    5. Steele Creek

    4 Reviews
    Jonas Ridge, NC
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 652-2144

    "There’s a nice big spot at the end of the trail where you could rooftop tent/car camp, but the actual site is about 100’ away."

    "This 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 !"

    6. Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area

    3 Reviews
    Butler, TN
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 735-1500

    "Stayed a night out here while traveling, scary narrow rocky trails, but beautiful streams and mountains"

    7. Old NC 105 Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Linville Falls, NC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 652-2144

    "Old NC 105 is a dirt road which goes on for miles with views both sides. Camping spots are available all along the road some with better views than others."

    "Coordinates are accurate to get you to this gravel road along a ridge top. Easy pull-in spots for cars and vans next to the road, several with great views of the valley and gorge."

    8. National Forest Road/Steele Creek/Nates Place Dispersed Campsite

    1 Review
    Jonas Ridge, NC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 652-2144

    "Know that there is no signal when you are out there."

    9. Old North Carolina 105 Road - Dispersed Spot

    2 Reviews
    Linville, NC
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 257-4200

    "Great place with lots of shade"

    10. Victor Road Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Little Switzerland, NC
    30 miles

    "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."

    "Nearly right at mile marker 342 Long gravel road, couple/few camping spots along the way, mostly on the left."

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Showing results 1-10 of 23 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Banner Elk, NC

95 Reviews of 23 Banner Elk Campgrounds



Guide to Banner Elk

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Banner Elk, North Carolina, where nature meets tranquility. With stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities, these spots offer a perfect escape for both novice and seasoned campers.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Banner Elk, North Carolina

  • Many dispersed camping areas, like Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping, provide easy access along gravel roads, making them suitable for cars and vans, though a vehicle with higher clearance is recommended.
  • Be prepared for primitive conditions; sites often lack amenities such as drinking water and toilets, so bringing your own supplies is essential for a comfortable stay.
  • Respect the environment by following Leave No Trace principles, especially in popular spots like Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC, where maintaining cleanliness is crucial for preserving the natural beauty.

Scenic Views While Free Camping Near Banner Elk

Hiking and Exploration for Dispersed Campers

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Banner Elk, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Banner Elk, NC is Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he with a 4.2-star rating from 13 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Banner Elk, NC?

TheDyrt.com has all 23 dispersed camping locations near Banner Elk, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.