Dispersed camping options near Cedar Grove, North Carolina offer primitive outdoor experiences within the rolling terrain of the central Piedmont region. The Uwharrie Mountains, among the oldest mountain ranges in North America at over 500 million years old, provide modest elevations ranging from 300 to 1,000 feet. Fall and spring bring moderate temperatures ideal for backcountry exploration, while summer campers should prepare for high humidity and temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F.
What to do
Kayak camping on Little River: Access remote camping spots by paddling the Little River from the boat ramp where Pekin Road crosses the waterway. "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," notes a camper about Uwharrie National Forest.
OHV trail exploration: Many dispersed camping areas provide access to off-highway vehicle trails for day trips. "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," reports one visitor about their camping experience.
Backpacking multi-day routes: Connect multiple camping areas via the trail systems. "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," explains a backpacker at Robbins Branch Trail.
What campers like
Seclusion and privacy: Most dispersed sites offer significant distance from other campers. "We stayed in 2 different dispersed primitive sites and they were both great. Plenty of space and trees and privacy," shares one camper about their experience in the area.
Availability of water sources: Creek access near many camping spots provides both practical resources and natural ambiance. "Along the Uwharrie trail. Water available on both sides of camp/trail," notes a camper who gave the area five stars.
Well-maintained trail systems: The network of paths connecting camping areas receives regular upkeep. "Very nice trails. Well maintained. Not marked the best... signs at intersections. Plenty of creeks. Hike in for dispersed camping," comments a visitor to Birkhead Mountain Wilderness Area Dispersed.
What you should know
Hunting season safety: During deer hunting season, bright clothing is essential for visibility. "Make sure to wear bright colors during hunting season because there are a ton of people out deer hunting in this area," warns one experienced camper.
Permit requirements: Some areas require overnight permits available from local vendors. "There are 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," explains a camper.
Site cleanliness expectations: Practice pack-in, pack-out principles at all dispersed sites. "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," advises a visitor to Dispersed Camping off Falls Dam Trail.
Tips for camping with families
Select sites with easier access: For families with young children, choose camping areas with shorter hiking distances. "This campsite is on the Mountains to Sea Trail for those that are doing that. There's lots of shade and it is very peaceful. It is pretty flat for your tent and there are fire rings," shares a camper at Shallow Ford Natural Area.
Pack additional water: Limited access to treated water necessitates bringing extra supplies for children. "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," explains one camper about rustic camping near Cedar Grove.
Plan for wildlife encounters: Prepare children for possible wildlife sightings with proper precautions. "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," reports a hunter who frequently camps in the area.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many rustic camping areas demand appropriate vehicles. "This is a great area for dispersed campers with 4WD or AWD. It's pretty popular so head out early to secure your spot," advises one camper with experience bringing vehicles to primitive sites.
Generator considerations: Plan power needs carefully before arrival. "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," explains a camper who brought a pop-up camper to the area.
Limited turnaround space: Many forest roads have restricted space for larger vehicles. "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," notes a visitor who camped at multiple locations in the Uwharrie area.
