Dispersed camping near Boone, North Carolina ranges in elevation from 2,500 to 6,000 feet across the surrounding national forests. The area receives approximately 50 inches of rain annually, creating lush forests and numerous creek-fed swimming holes. Forest roads vary significantly in quality, with some requiring high-clearance vehicles while others remain accessible to standard passenger cars.
What to do
Hiking to swimming holes: At Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC, visitors can access multiple water features. "There are numerous waterfalls to hike to, one of which is a short hike from the end of the road," notes a camper who enjoyed the easy access to natural water features.
Wildlife observation: The higher elevation areas provide opportunities for spotting native wildlife. In the Linville Gorge Wilderness area, early morning or evening visits increase chances of seeing deer, various bird species, and small mammals. "I camped here in December 2020 and didn't see anyone else. Plenty of wood, but not much of a view from my camp anyway," reports one winter visitor.
Fishing: Trout fishing is available in several creeks throughout the region during designated seasons. "You may also be able to trout fish in Linville River if it's trout season and you're licensed. Speckled and Rainbow trout are beautiful in this area. Most fall within the 8-12 inch range," advises an experienced camper.
What campers like
Secluded swimming spots: Steele Creek offers natural water features that draw many campers. "The creek is a great spot to swim" with "a couple small waterfalls to add to the ambience," according to a regular visitor who considers it their "favorite spot in the pisgah national forest."
Mountain ridge camping: Camping along Old NC 105 Dispersed provides unique ridgetop experiences. "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," explains a visitor who enjoyed the elevated perspective.
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed areas offer good separation between campsites. At Upper Creek, "The sites are pretty spread out but there are a few within shouting distance," notes a camper who appreciated the balance between isolation and community.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access to many sites requires careful driving, particularly after rain. "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," reports a Steele Creek visitor.
Prepare for variable cell service: Connectivity differs dramatically between locations. At Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping, one camper noted, "We had decent cell service," while most forest sites have minimal or no coverage.
Campsite competition: Popular viewpoint sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "The coordinates take you right to the site and there's a small gravel road you can pull into. The campsite is directly off the forest road, maybe 20 feet," explains a camper about finding available spots.
Tips for camping with families
Scout for flat terrain: Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 offers various terrain options. "There are primitive sites along the foot trail (Linville Gorge Trail) but you still need to call to let the park ranger/main office know when you're planning to camp," advises a family camper who notes the limited flat ground along the trail.
Bring insect protection: Bugs can be problematic in warmer months. "I did get eaten alive by mosquitos and I found a tick on my chair so be on the lookout," warns a summer visitor who recommends bringing proper repellent.
Consider noise levels: Some sites experience significant traffic noise. At Old NC 105, "The car traffic is horrible, even in the middle of the night. Even until 4am we could hear and see car driving up and down this terribly bumpy gravel road," reports a tent camper who found the road noise disruptive.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: National Forest Road/Steele Creek/Nates Place accommodates smaller recreational vehicles but not large rigs. "The terrain is definitely rough but cars, trucks and vans can get down there just not RVs," explains a regular visitor familiar with the access road limitations.
Leveling challenges: Finding level parking for larger vehicles requires scouting. "It's a nice spot with some flat areas to put a tent if you don't mind being close to the road," notes a camper about one of the accessible roadside sites available to smaller RVs.
Tent camping alternatives: Many sites better suit tent camping than vehicle camping. "Maybe I missed this in the reviews, but all but 1 site were best for tents. I drove in to camp in my car and there was only 1 spot, which is by the creek crossing, and it was already taken," advises a visitor who had planned to sleep in their vehicle.
