Best Dispersed Camping near Creedmoor, NC

Several dispersed camping options exist near Creedmoor, North Carolina, with Butner Lake Wildlife Management Area serving as the primary location for primitive camping. This WMA offers basic sites with minimal amenities located just off the interstate. Camping at Butner Lake WMA operates seasonally, open September 1 to February 28 and March 31 to May 14, coinciding with hunting seasons. Two other dispersed camping areas within driving distance include Hibernia State Recreation Area near Henderson and Shallow Ford Natural Area in Elon.

Access to Butner Lake WMA camping areas consists of small pull-off sites suitable for tents and smaller vehicles. The narrow access road presents challenges for larger trailers or RVs, though some campers report successfully navigating with careful maneuvering. Sites lack amenities such as drinking water, electricity, or toilets. Campers must pack out all trash. Fire rings are available at most sites, and fires are permitted when no bans are in effect. All campers must possess a valid hunting or fishing license, which costs approximately $30 and can be purchased at nearby stores.

The dispersed camping areas provide basic overnight accommodations with varying levels of seclusion. Most sites at Butner Lake WMA are positioned close together with limited privacy, though the area remains relatively quiet during weekdays. Cell phone coverage is generally adequate for those needing to stay connected. The location offers convenience for travelers passing through, being just minutes from town amenities. A recent review noted the area is "very primitive, but close to town if you need anything." Another camper mentioned it "works perfectly, especially in a pinch" for no-cost tent camping. Nearby lakes provide recreational opportunities within short driving distance.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Creedmoor, North Carolina (3)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Creedmoor, NC

4 Photos of 3 Creedmoor Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Creedmoor, NC

11 Reviews of 3 Creedmoor Campgrounds


  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 26, 2022

    Butner lake WMA

    Very Small and not made for trailers.

    This is a small road and if you had a camper of any size it would take you a while to turn around.    Very few places.   Like someone said earlier this is a place to pitch a tent or to Car Camp.

  • Donnelle The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 12, 2025

    Butner lake WMA

    Quiet, Discreet and Welcoming

    My fiance and I camped out a little longer than the actually extension period for individuals, but never had a problem. Several others have showed up to camp out a couple days but were gone shortly. For the most part it was just us. And whatever it is running around in the woods. I heard many coyotes elks and a an owl but nothing never stumbled to our campsite close enough to get a look at it other than one young fox which was running away when we pulled in one late night. I think the animals are aware that the campground is human territory so they stay away. It's at 10 different spots to set up with your car parked right next to your tent. Our Boost mobile wi-fi worked perfectly fine. There is a lake 2 mins away one way and another 7 mins away the other way. The city dump is also 2 mins away. And town is 5 mins away. I wish the gates never closed because we would still be there.

  • Max O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2019

    Butner lake WMA

    Very rustic dispersed camping

    You have a fire ring and a line to hang things from thats about it here, really nice place to camp if youre comfortable not having a toilet. Saw one other person here come in with a 30 foot trailer, didnt think he would fit but found a spot just fine. And the best part is its FREE CAMPING!!

  • S H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 1, 2024

    Butner lake WMA

    terrific spot to pull up for a night

    first time doing any type of dispersed camping but it was really easy to find, just off the road in the woods, just follow the coordinates and its a lil past, look for the signs, with lil sites to pull my car up to deeper in the woods, though you can still see the headlights coming from the road.

    I'm not a hunter but no one else was there and I pulled up at 10pm and left 6am on the first day of open season.

  • Linda The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 24, 2022

    Shallow Ford Natural Area

    Peaceful camping

    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. Someone left me a bundle of wood. I hear the river in the background and lots of birds and squirrels. I would highly recommend this place.

  • Donnelle The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Butner lake WMA

    Be Advised!

    All Campers MUST have a fishers/hunters license. Rangers wrote us a warning ticket for not having our own, but we are headed to Walmart to get one for about $30

  • Joe F.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 17, 2023

    Butner lake WMA

    Great small sites

    Right off the road, easy access and perfect sites for 1 car and a tent. Only open during hunting seasons though.

  • B
    Sep. 11, 2020

    Butner lake WMA

    Free during hunting season

    Very primitive, but close to town if you need anything.  Sites are very close together, no privacy.  Most campers are here to hunt so are gone most of the day.  It was not crowded when I was there during the week. I was only there on a Tuesday.

  • Erin B.
    Mar. 18, 2021

    Butner lake WMA

    Warning Seasonally Open!

    Only open Sept 1 to Feb 28th and March 31 to May 14


Guide to Creedmoor

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Creedmoor, North Carolina, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of options available, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Creedmoor, North Carolina

  • For a convenient and cost-free experience, check out Butner Lake WMA, which offers easy access and allows for both tent and car camping.

Enjoy peaceful surroundings while free camping near Creedmoor

  • If you're looking for a serene escape, Shallow Ford Natural Area provides a tranquil setting with plenty of shade and the soothing sounds of nature.

Outdoor activities for dispersed campers near Creedmoor

  • For those interested in hiking, Hibernia State Rec Area is accessible by boat or on foot, making it a unique spot for adventurous campers seeking a more remote experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Creedmoor, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Creedmoor, NC is Butner lake WMA with a 4-star rating from 10 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Creedmoor, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.