Dispersed camping opportunities in the Pisgah National Forest near Shelby, North Carolina offer primitive camping experiences along forest roads with elevations ranging from 2,500 to 3,500 feet. These free rustic camping sites are typically located along ridgelines or follow creek beds, creating varied experiences depending on terrain. The area experiences mild summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F during day and cooler mountain nights often dropping below 60°F.
What to do
Waterfall hunting: Multiple swimming holes and small waterfalls are accessible from the dispersed sites along Steele Creek. "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," notes a camper at Steele Creek.
Creek exploration: Several creek-adjacent sites provide cooling options during warmer months. At National Forest Road/Steele Creek, one visitor explains, "This place is spectacular, a lovely creek/river with swimming pools. Campfire rock rings. There's probably about 10 spots."
Ridge hiking: The forest roads themselves offer hiking options with overlooks. A camper at Old NC 105 Dispersed notes, "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. Some spots are very shaded deep into the trees while others afford superb views of the gorge and distant Lake James."
What campers like
Cell service variations: Connectivity differs significantly between areas. A visitor to Old NC 105 Dispersed shared, "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. Most have primitive fire rings. Great cell service."
Creek sounds: Many campers appreciate the natural soundtrack at creek-side sites. "Spent two nights here at a site right next to the creek, which was awesome listening to the running water as you fall asleep," reports a camper at Upper Creek.
Spacious sites: Some areas accommodate larger camping groups. One camper at Upper Creek noted, "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. The ground wood for campfires is very abundant and many of the sites are appropriate for groups."
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Forest roads can deteriorate rapidly after rain. A camper at Victor Road Dispersed reported, "The road is initially pavement but quickly turns to packed gravel. The road is a little rough in spots, but I had zero issues in my Honda Accord."
Site availability timing: Prime camping spots fill quickly, especially those with views. "I got here late, around 5 pm on Saturday, so I had difficulty finding a spot. There was lots of sites but they were all filled up," notes a visitor to Steele Creek.
Traffic levels: Some forest roads experience significant traffic, particularly on weekends. A camper at Old North Carolina 105 Road shared, "The camp site appears okay. Water sources are non-existent. Traffic was insane. Got attacked by someone's unrestrained dog, this is getting to be an issue everywhere it seems. Constant dust in the air from traffic."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for water access: Creek-side sites provide natural entertainment for children. At Upper Creek, a camper noted, "a two mile long gravel road that parallels with a beautiful river with a bunch of pull offs to camp or hangout at. will be coming back again soon."
Arrive early on weekends: Securing family-friendly sites requires planning. "The best spots were already taken, I got the last 'scenic' spot but it was beautiful. Wide open views... lots of areas for bigger group if that's what you need," shared a visitor to Old NC 105.
Bring insect protection: Ticks and mosquitoes can be prevalent in summer months. One Steele Creek visitor warned, "The sound of the creek was nice but I did get eaten alive by mosquitos and I found a tick on my chair so be on the lookout."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions matter: Most rustic camping near Shelby accommodates smaller RVs only. A visitor to Victor Road Dispersed shared, "Great place by Blue Ridge Pkwy. Not very far off Pkwy, we had no problem getting there with our Artic Fox truck camper and pulling a Jeep. Stayed next to a creek at the end."
Site limitations for vehicles: Many sites work better for tent camping than RVs. "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," noted a camper at Steele Creek.
Road clearance considerations: Some roads require high-clearance vehicles. A camper at Steele Creek said, "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."
