Primitive camping near Hays, North Carolina centers primarily in the Pisgah National Forest and Washington & Jefferson National Forest where sites sit at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 5,500 feet. Most dispersed campsites follow creek beds and forest service roads through mountainous terrain. Temperature variations can be extreme on higher elevation sites, with frequent wind and fog affecting camping conditions even during summer months.
What to do
Waterfall hunting: Upper Creek in Pisgah National Forest offers several hiking trails to local waterfalls. "There are numerous waterfalls to hike to, one of which is a short hike from the end of the road," notes one camper at Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC.
Swimming in natural pools: Steele Creek provides some of the best creek swimming in the area. "It has a couple small waterfalls to add to the ambience. The site is very clean other than some glass that I've been picking up," reports a visitor to Steele Creek.
Wildlife viewing: Mount Rogers Recreation Area offers opportunities to observe wild ponies. "Amazing sights and wild ponies! The AT provides some great hiking," shares one camper about their experience in the area.
Mountain biking: Forest roads and nearby trails provide excellent mountain biking routes. "Within 3 miles of these spots along the creek, you will find the famous and gorgeous Virginia Creeper Trail, the Whitetop Laurel Creek, and the Appalachian Trail. So bring your bikes, fishing poles, kayaks, and hiking boots."
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many dispersed sites near Hays sit directly beside flowing water. At National Forest Road/Steele Creek/Nates Place, one camper shares, "This place is spectacular, a lovely creek/river with swimming pools. Campfire rock rings. There's probably about 10 spots."
Stargazing opportunities: Higher elevation sites offer exceptional night sky viewing. One camper at Mount Rogers described, "The night sky was one of the most memorable moments from our trip. I've never seen so many stars!"
Privacy between sites: Several areas offer well-spaced campsites. "There are plenty of sites to pick from all along the creek, all of which appear to be well maintained, each with a fire ring," notes a visitor to Steele Creek.
Above-the-clouds experiences: At Whitetop, one camper experienced a unique weather phenomenon: "The next morning was still foggy. As we're getting ready to head out for the day, all of a sudden the sun came out and we were ABOVE THE CLOUDS. It was absolutely stunning."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest service roads require careful navigation. "The road to this site is WILD, but doable! I'll leave photos of the worst spots to help you decide whether or not you should drive up to the top. We drove our 2WD Ford Maverick up the rocky road and it handled it just fine," reports a Whitetop visitor.
Camping preparation: No facilities means bringing all necessities. At Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites, a camper advises, "There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or even pit toilet, so come prepared."
Weather extremes: High elevation sites experience significant wind and temperature fluctuations. "THE WIND IS KILLER. We ended up moving our tent to the other side of the car park at the top. There's a nice little piney forest which provided a little shelter from the wind," warns a camper at Whitetop.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is nearly non-existent in most areas. "There is absolutely no cell service at this camp, you have to go into town or hike a local mountain to get service up high."
Weekend crowds: Weekday visits offer more solitude. "Traffic wasn't bad through the week but weekend it was busy. The next site up had over 25 cars and they were partying pretty loud," notes an Upper Creek visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming hole locations: Identify safe water spots for children. "It has a great spot to swim so we are excited about that. 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."
Site selection timing: Arrive early for best spots, especially on weekends. "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," shares a Mount Rogers National Recreation Area visitor.
Safety considerations: Be aware of wildlife and terrain. "I did get eaten alive by mosquitos and I found a tick on my chair so be on the lookout," warns a Steele Creek camper.
Group-friendly areas: Some sites specifically accommodate larger family gatherings. "Many of the sites are appropriate for groups. The ground wood for campfires is very abundant," notes an Upper Creek visitor.
Tips from RVers
RV site limitations: Most dispersed sites near Hays accommodate small vehicles only. At Scales Trailhead Basecamp, a visitor cautions: "The road in is...'rocky'. High clearance 4wd needed. Not ADV friendly, unless you're very adventurous."
Car camping alternatives: For those unable to use tents, some specific sites work for vehicle camping. "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. There's a nice big spot at the end of the trail where you could rooftop tent/car camp."
Vehicle clearance requirements: Standard passenger cars can access many sites with careful driving. "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."
Pull-through options: Some sites offer easier access for small trailers. "It is a pull-thru so it would be convenient for trailers, too."
