Dispersed camping near Connelly Springs, North Carolina takes place along forest service roads and undeveloped areas within Pisgah National Forest. Most primitive camping spots require a short drive on unpaved roads, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,800 feet creating distinct temperature differences between valley and ridge sites. Old NC 105 offers free dispersed camping with varying degrees of site development depending on previous camper maintenance.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 1-3 miles from camp: South Mountains State Park features an 80-foot waterfall accessible via hiking trails near the family campground. A visitor notes: "I searched 'best waterfalls in NC' and this park did not disappoint. We stayed for 3 nights- family campsite (sites 6-9 are best IMO) was used as basecamp. We also had a primitive site that we backpacked to for a night." (South Mountains State Park Family Campground)
Fishing in stocked waters: Julian Price Park Campground provides lake fishing with boat rentals available during summer months. The lake is hatchery supported, making it ideal for casual anglers. "Julian Price Park is a beautiful campground just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. We enjoy this campground on the weekends throughout the fall and spring as it is less occupied."
Mountain biking on designated trails: The region offers approximately 16.5 miles of mountain bike trails that intermix with hiking routes. At Bear Den, "The campground is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains...so beautiful! Quiet campground with hiking trails, small fishing lake, playgrounds, an arcade room, and camp store. One of the hiking trails leads to a waterfall."
What campers like
Creek access from campsites: Several campgrounds feature streamside sites that provide natural water features and ambient sounds. At Steele Creek Park, "A lot of the sites have water beside them. Bathrooms were clean. There is a store on property that has things you may have forgotten and a grill." (Steele Creek Park & Campground)
Remote camping with mountain views: Along Old NC 105, dispersed sites offer views of Table Rock Mountain and the surrounding valleys. One camper explains: "About 5 camping spots along the road have breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, hills and valleys. We headed up the road from Lake James to find this stunning view down into the gorge from our site." (Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping)
Proximity to Blue Ridge Parkway: Several campgrounds provide easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway's scenic drives and overlooks. "Being right on the Parkway was awesome and provided some great driving and hiking close by. The staff were very helpful. We camped at C13 which was right across from the large playground in November."
What you should know
Water access varies by site type: Developed campgrounds provide potable water, while dispersed sites require you to bring your own. At Indian Springs Campground, "The closest water source is a creek 0.6 miles (1.2 miles round trip) away- filter it- the walk back to camp is a steep uphill."
Seasonal road conditions: Access roads to dispersed sites can deteriorate after rain. For Old NC 105, a camper reports: "The dirt road goes for about 13 miles. Would recommend a 4x4, but I've seen all kinds of vehicles travel the entire road from minivans to Honda accords."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically based on elevation and terrain. South Mountains State Park has "NO cell service which is a big draw for us. Far from a town, so don't forget anything. Rangers are helpful and will bring firewood (charge for the wood)." (Linville Falls Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway)
Tips for camping with families
Sites near playgrounds: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Bear Den, "We camped at C13 which was right across from the large playground in November. No noise issues, but it was dark by 6:30pm. May be different in the Summer. My daughter had a blast and we could keep an eye on her while we worked/played at the site."
Bathroom access considerations: Developed campgrounds have varying bathroom facilities. One camper at South Mountains notes: "Bath facilities are new and kept clean. Very quiet with NO cell service which is a big draw for us."
Weekend vs. weekday crowds: Peak season weekends can be difficult to secure spots, especially at popular locations. "We camped from mid-September and had a great time. These are the cleanest bathrooms we've ever seen. The on-site store is a life saver and the hosts are very helpful."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: RV sites with electrical connections are limited in the immediate area, so reservations are essential. At Thousand Trails Green Mountain, "We spent 14 nights here Oct 2020. Not one day where we disappointed. Beautiful park with full hook ups. People here where super friends and there are people working on the park keeping it clean everyday." (Thousand Trails Green Mountain)
Campsite terrain assessment: Many sites require careful positioning due to uneven terrain. A visitor to Indian Springs explains: "The site was fairly level, and the electric, water & sewer were well maintained and easy to access. Verizon cell service was excellent because there is a tower close-by."
Access road considerations: Roads to some camping spots near Connelly Springs require careful navigation. "If you can handle driving up and down the gravel road, you will love this campground. It is definitely a hidden gem, and one of the best experiences we have had."
