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Best Dispersed Camping near Cedar Grove, NC

18 Reviews

Uwharrie National Forest provides several dispersed camping opportunities near Cedar Grove, North Carolina, with primitive sites scattered throughout the 50,000-acre woodland. The forest features multiple backcountry camping areas along trails and waterways, with notable options including Birkhead Mountain Wilderness Area and sites along the Uwharrie Trail. While some areas require hiking in, others permit vehicle access at designated points. Shallow Ford Natural Area and dispersed sites near Falls Dam Trail also offer primitive camping experiences in the region.

Access to many dispersed camping areas varies by location and season. Sites along the Uwharrie Trail often require hiking several miles, while some forest road pull-offs accommodate vehicles but may need high clearance or 4WD capability. Little River access points combine kayak/boat-in camping opportunities with hiking options. Most dispersed sites lack amenities such as drinking water, toilets, or trash service. During hunting seasons, wearing bright colors is essential for safety. Fire restrictions apply in some areas, with established fire rings present at many frequently used sites.

The primitive camping experience in this region provides solitude and natural surroundings for those seeking off-grid camping options. The Uwharrie Trail system connects many camping areas, allowing backpackers to create multi-day trips. Water sources from streams are available near many sites but require filtration. Wildlife viewing opportunities enhance the camping experience, though visitors should practice proper food storage. Birkhead Mountain Wilderness receives positive reviews for its trail system and creek access. "The tent sites are nice, clean and level," noted one camper at Uwharrie, while another mentioned that "there are plenty of established camping spots" throughout the forest.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Cedar Grove, North Carolina (5)

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Cedar Grove, NC

18 Reviews of 5 Cedar Grove 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 Cedar Grove

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Cedar Grove, North Carolina, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. This region offers several well-reviewed spots perfect for those looking to escape into the wilderness.

Scenic Trails for Dispersed Campers

  • The Uwharrie National Forest features numerous trails that provide a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience, ideal for those preparing for longer hikes like the Appalachian Trail.
  • With multiple trailheads, such as the 23/27 trailhead, campers can easily access established campsites and enjoy the convenience of overnight parking for backpacking adventures.
  • The Birkhead Mountain Wilderness Area Dispersed offers well-maintained trails that lead to beautiful creeks, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful hike-in camping experience.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Cedar Grove

  • Campers at the Shallow Ford Natural Area can enjoy the tranquility of the Mountains to Sea Trail, which provides ample shade and a serene environment for relaxation.
  • Fishing and swimming opportunities abound near the water, especially for those who choose to camp at the Dispersed Camping off Falls Dam Trail, where the sounds of nature enhance the experience.
  • For those who enjoy primitive camping, the Uwharrie National Forest offers a variety of scenic spots that allow for a true escape into nature, complete with fire pits and beautiful surroundings.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out the Uwharrie National Forest

  • This area is known for its diverse camping options, allowing visitors to set up camp almost anywhere along the trails, making it a favorite among seasoned campers.
  • The forest is pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry companions along to enjoy the great outdoors with you.
  • With amenities like drinking water and toilets available at certain locations, the Uwharrie National Forest strikes a balance between comfort and the ruggedness of dispersed camping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Cedar Grove, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cedar Grove, NC is Uwharrie National Forest with a 4.3-star rating from 16 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Cedar Grove, NC?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Cedar Grove, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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