Top Free Dispersed Camping near Horse Shoe, NC

Searching for a dispersed campsite near Horse Shoe? Dispersed camping means that no facilities or amenities are provided, so that you can truly disconnect and get back to nature. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Horse Shoe, NC (30)

    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed

    1. Pisgah National Forest Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    29 Photos
    506 Saves

    The Pisgah National Forest is a land of mile-high peaks, cascading waterfalls, and heavily forested slopes. Comprised of over 500,000 acres, the Pisgah is primarily a hardwood forest with whitewater rivers, waterfalls and hundreds of miles of trails. This national forest is home of the first tract of land purchased under the Weeks Act of 1911 which led to the creation of the national forests in the eastern United States. It is also home of the first school of forestry in the United States, now preserved at the Cradle of Forestry in America historic site, and boasts two of the first designated wilderness areas in the east. The Pisgah, Grandfather and Appalachian Ranger Districts are scattered along the eastern edge of the mountains of western North Carolina and offer visitors a variety of opportunities for outdoor recreation and enjoying the natural beauty of the mountains. Camping and Day-use Information Enjoy camping or a picnic at one of the many day-use areas. A list of camping and day-use areas in the Pisgah National Forest can be found here Recreation Maps Nantahala & Pisgah National Forest Maps Directions to Frequently Requested Places NC Arobretum and Bent Creek Area Blue Ridge Parkway South Blue Ridge Parkway North Pisgah Ranger District Cradle of Forestry Cradle of Forestry (Scenic Route) The Biltmore House Mt. Mitchell Be Safe The national forests in North Carolina offer a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. From the mountains to the sea, there are many exciting adventures awaiting your visit to these national forests. Please keep in mind that all outdoor recreational activities on the Croatan, Pisgah, Nantahala and Uwharrie national forests, including activities at recreation sites, have inherent risks due to the natural setting in which they occur. Always remember, your safety is your responsibility. Waterfall Safety for the Summer.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4 and #5
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4 and #5
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4 and #5
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

    4. Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    2 Photos
    145 Saves

    Within the Pisgah Ranger District there are 65 disbursed roadside camping sites that are available on a first come - first serve basis. These campsites are located alongside gravel roads throughout the district and include a parking area, tent pad, and fire ring. Toilet facilities and drinking water are not available. Trash pick-up is not provided. Trash must be collected and disposed of properly. Failure to remove or properly dispose of trash is a crime and law enforcement officers will issue citations for littering if trash is strewn about or not properly disposed of. The following regulations must be adhered to and are strictly enforced by Law Enforcement Officers. • Roadside camping is allowed at designated campsites only. Signs designating a legal campsite show a camping_ symbol and a site number (for example "AC-3" for Avery Creek site 3). • The National Forests in North Carolina have a policy which allows for campers to occupy a roadside campsite for a maximum of 14 days out of a 30 day period. If a camper changes locations or moves to another campsite, it cannot be within 10 miles of previous site, the maximum stay limit of 14 days applies to all sites occupied. • All vehicles must be parked along road shoulders without blocking traffic. • Campfires are allowed only within the metal fire ring provided on the site, Building of additional fire rings is not allowed. AJJ camping equipment and tents must remain on the designated tent pad. • Collecting 'dead and downed' :firewood in the forest is permitted for camp fires. It is illegal to cut, chop, or saw live or standing trees or other live growth. Do not chop into or drive nails into live trees. • It is illegal to establish and set up a campsite for the purpose of reserving a camping place. The campsite must be occupied on the night it is set up by a minimum of one person. • It is illegal to leave a camp unattended for period of more than 24 hours. • It is illegal to fail to remove all camping equipment, personal property, trash, and refuse from a campsite when vacating or leaving that area or site. • It is mandatory that all human waste be buried at least 6 _inches deep and a minimum or 200 feet from a stream. trail, or campsite. • Alcoholic beverages are prohibited on Avery Creek Road (FSR 477) and Lickstone Road (FSR 97). Prohibition is 1000 feet to either side of the road, campsites, trails or roads leading off of either of the aforementioned. Warning: Unattended property and equipment in these areas can be an easy target for criminal activity. Protect your property by locking valuables out of site. Access to these campsites is easy by any vehicle. If you see anyone stealing anything from a roadside campsite or parking area near a public trailhead, picnic, or recreation area please call 911 to report it or call USPS Law Enforcement at the Pisgah District Ranger Station at 828-877-3265

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b

    5. 475b

    2 Reviews
    8 Photos
    32 Saves

    Within the Pisgah Ranger District there are 65 disbursed roadside camping sites that are available on a first come - first serve basis.

    Toilet facilities and drinking water are not available. Trash pick-up is not provided. Trash must be collected and disposed of properly. Failure to remove or properly dispose of trash is a crime and law enforcement officers will issue citations for littering if trash is strewn about or not properly disposed of.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Henderson Reservoir Dispersed Site #1
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Site #2
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Site #2
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Site #2

    7. Wash Creek Dispersed Site #2

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    34 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Victor Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Victor Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Victor Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Victor Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Victor Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Victor Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping

    9. Blue Valley Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    16 Photos
    156 Saves

    Dispersed camping in the Blue Valley area. Approximately 22 dispersed sites are available, and most have fire rings and picnic tables. A pit toilet is available. Please pack in and pack out. Wilson Lake is a short distance away offering fishing, swimming, a short trail, and wildlife viewing and birding.

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Firewood Available
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunburst Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunburst Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunburst Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunburst Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunburst Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Sunburst Dispersed Camping
Showing results 1-10 of 30 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Horse Shoe

88 Reviews of 30 Horse Shoe Campgrounds


  • m
    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
    Aug. 19, 2024

    Pisgah National Forest Dispersed

    Stunning

    It's beautiful up there although there's not many campsites. I stayed at the second one up the dirt road. It wasn't officially designated but it was used as a campsite. You'll need four wheel drive to get in and out of it though. The road is long but you'll see a bunch of cool waterfalls and at the end of the road there is a great hiking trail with a beautiful waterfall. The dirt road goes on for a long time but it's in good condition so keep driving and you'll find a spot. There's really only 4 viable spots on that road but man is it gorgeous. Go to ranger road and keep going up. Do not follow google maps it will take you to a private driveway where there's a sign saying "no camping, your app is wrong, turn around now".

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping

    10/10

    I actually cannot stop thinking about my weekend camp here. So beautiful and lots of places to camp. Not a hard hike in either. A lot of day hikers through out the day. Lots of flies bc of dog poop but it’s worth it.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mountain Rest Mountain Top
    Aug. 12, 2024

    Mountain Rest Mountain Top

    Hilltop camping with hiking trails

    Great spot with room to turn around. Shaded and at trailhead of a trail down to creek and near a second trail to a waterfall. Had a few people during the day but evenings were totally quiet. A bit of extra vehicle clearance is helpful...slow and steady gets you to a great spot. No services here but good dispersed spot.

  • Adam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Pisgah National Forest Dispersed

    Love Big Ivy

    Easy access to water. Not a lot of theft. People with aggressive dogs do come here and think it's okay to have them off a leash. But that's everywhere anymore. The area is beautiful and one of the better places I've stayed.

  • Adam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old North Carolina 105 Road - Dispersed Spot
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Old North Carolina 105 Road - Dispersed Spot

    Horrible

    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. And my camp got raided by a thief. I just can't recommend the Gorge anymore, used to be one of my favorite places but it has taken a serious dive. Probably won't go back.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FS 289 Pull Off
    Jul. 3, 2024

    FS 289 Pull Off

    Good location

    Another review recommended an off-road vehicle or a jeep to get here. In dry conditions, I got here just fine in an Outback Wilderness, and 5 minutes later a Prius drove up. There’s a bit of trash but I’ve seen worse. Definitely bring bug repellent. The creek is only a few feet away from the campsite.

  • Dylan S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b
    Jun. 2, 2024

    475b

    Isolated spot for car camping or tent camping

    Road is a little rough but not terrible. 3-4 spots to park around this hairpin with 3 camping spots lotuses in the middle. Little runoff creates a creek that is nice to listen to but only deep enough to get feet in.

  • Forrest S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b
    May. 23, 2024

    475b

    Several walk up sites with easy access

    This is a great first-come-first-serve location with several sites.

  • Adam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mills River Dispersed
    Apr. 20, 2024

    Mills River Dispersed

    Theft

    They have a long term camper they refuse to run off and he will steal from you. Camp at your own risk, watch your stuff like a hawk. I'd really recommend Sunburst or Big Ivy instead of North Mills really.

  • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off
    Apr. 1, 2024

    Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off

    Great overnight stay near Blue Ridge Parkway

    Although this is not an official camp site, I arrived later than intended and with no other campsites open, I stayed the night here. There’s a stream that runs along the clearing, making some great natural white noise for sleeping. The forest road is very bumpy and narrow, but high clearance is not needed. Very low light pollution and the bare trees allowed for some great star gazing.

  • Jim M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FS 289 Pull Off
    Mar. 20, 2024

    FS 289 Pull Off

    Great dispersed site in the Pisgah NF

    Great Campsite along the Smoky Mountain 1000 Overland route. You need a good off road capable vehicle to access this site but it is very peaceful with a nice stream running by. Tent camping near the jeep or a high clearance overland teardrop should make it back here ok but not recommended for regular RV's.

  • H
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Site #2
    Mar. 10, 2024

    Wash Creek Dispersed Site #2

    Roomy spot in middle of nowhere

    It is a roomy site immediately off the road, a surprisingly well maintained gravel road. My class C had no problems making its way along and fitting in the roomy semicircle next to the tent and fire pit pad. There is a babbling brook next to the site for great ambience. We were able to fit our 30ft motorhome and car into the site with no problem. But avoid blocking the emergency access road to the side. Also, be prepared to completely disconnect from civilization since you can't even make calls here. Beautiful site to relax!

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paint Creek Corridor
    Mar. 4, 2024

    Paint Creek Corridor

    Paint Creek Dispersed Camping

    The national forest service website says there are dispersed camping site throughout the corridor; however, I was only able to locate one and luckily it was vacant. There are several spots along the road that may have been for dispersed camping as some point but are now clearly marked with no camping signs. I did enjoy my stay here but I’m a little disappointed in the website saying there were multiple sites … i has to drive almost 4 hours to get there and would have been super disappointed if I arrived to no spots. Also a lot of trash in the area of the site sadly.

  • I
    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
    Oct. 22, 2023

    Pisgah National Forest Dispersed

    Beautiful but impossible to find

    We drove for what felt like forever at the Big Ivy Trailhead and only ever found one labeled campsite. We gave up and camped in an unofficial spot.

    It was gorgeous! But there’s not much there and the drive is long.

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 27, 2023

    Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful views

    If you take your time and they are available there are a few spots on both sides of the road with wonderful views the begging of the road from either side is easy enough to get down but in the middle it gets really rough would not recommend driving all the way through with out an SUV or better clearance and 4 wheel drive the road got worse while I was there from the rain biggest con for me is I use a pump filter to fill up water no camp sight that I could find had access to the river that runs along this road so make sure to bring plenty of bottled water and the road has a lot of traffic at-least one person a day has stopped to ask me questions while I was laying in my hammock

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4 and #5
    Jul. 25, 2023

    Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4 and #5

    Great camping spot

    First the sight is beautiful and most have a beautiful trout stream close by when navigating if using Apple Maps pay attention to where it is routing you mine wanted me to walk through the woods for an hour to get here it’s easier to find if you navigate to north mill’s campground first second there are signs about being a high crime area and they are not kidding while I was out picking up a few things at ingles someone came by and took my tent and sleeping bag that was inside I wouldn’t leave anything valuable to mark it as your sight and I have T mobile and I lost service about 10 mins from the campground and had no signal while staying there

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed
    Jul. 20, 2023

    Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

    Very Dispersed

    It was a great site, although there are only a few campsites on the road to it. We ended up driving to the top and someone already claimed it, so we had to go back down to a less convenient spot. The campsites are very secluded and quiet.

  • Dai C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed
    Jul. 1, 2023

    Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

    Gorgeous group camping area

    Beautiful free group camping area with large parkinglot. All dirt roads back here. Beautiful waterfall (whaleback falls I think?) just a quick 15 minute walk across the river and up the trail (follow Daniel ridge trail loop from parking lot). Not much free fall action for nature bathers, though there is enough water flow to lean in and get all that grease out of your hair! Big boulders to climb on at the base of the falls.. be careful as wet rocks are slippery. Serene and gorgeous forest all around you.

    Zero phone connection whatsoever (T Mobile 5g / LTE). Greater earth love connection a thousandfold. Highly recommend.

    <3

  • a
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed
    Jul. 1, 2023

    Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

    Roadish side/semi primitive

    I love Pigah. It doesn't seem to matter what season! With that said:

    • remote- you have to want to get up here but it's really easy to do once you drive it a few times.

    *clearly marked spots. I am actually located at ucc-2. ** The Dead End spot.

    *Creek is located very close nearby. But not on the clear spots for tents.

    *Not for big rigs, RVs, etc. It's a tent or as I use the tree tent.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Mills River Dispersed
    May. 5, 2023

    Mills River Dispersed

    Beautiful, mostly peaceful, inconvenient

    *this is just for the free campsites- there appears to be paid campsites and maybe RV hook ups very close by.

    Pros:

    1. Gorgeous lush forest
    2. ice-cold flowing stream (in May) immediately off most camp spots
    3. well maintained and leveled places to pitch a tent.
    4. except for occasional cars, very very peaceful and far from any urban life or freeway.

    Cons:

    1. No cell service (Verizon) without driving 10 minutes, and then patchy for another 10-15
    2. camp spots are mostly immediately off the road. It’s a very isolated place, so you have inconsistent privacy and peace and quiet.
    3. several cars drove by and woke me up after 11pm.
    4. the dirt road to get there as well as the pull off for the campsite are rough and a bit dangerous for low/regular cars. It’s doable but you should go very slow and watch out for giant holes and ridges. I bottomed out going into the parking space, and I lifted my Prius 1.5in

    TO NOTE: Google maps incorrectly told me to take a right once I was on the dirt road that doesn’t exist. Just ignore it and keep going forward.

    Explored up to campsite 4 the next day. Campsite 3 is a larger group site and a bit further off the road.

    It’s not true “dispersed” camping because they have designated site you are supposed to stay at. Im not sure how many there are, but I only got up to #4, driving about 5-10 min down the dirt road.



Guide to Horse Shoe

Camping near Horse Shoe, North Carolina, offers a fantastic escape into nature with a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails around the campgrounds. Many campers enjoy the nearby hiking options, like the trails at Elkmont Campground, where one reviewer mentioned, "We did one of our hikes from our site—the Little River Trail to Cucumber Gap, and it was beautiful."
  • Fishing: Cast a line in the local rivers and lakes. Campers at Davidson River Campground have noted, "There is a nice swimming hole at camp and the bathhouses are well kept," making it a great spot for fishing and relaxing.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One visitor at Smokemont Campground shared, "I love all the elk and other wildlife," highlighting the area's rich biodiversity.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Greenbrier Campground stated, "The bathrooms were amazing," which is a big plus for many families.
  • Scenic Views: Many campgrounds offer breathtaking views. One happy camper at Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground said, "The views are awesome at this park," making it a perfect backdrop for your camping experience.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Asheville East KOA are great for kids, with pools, playgrounds, and themed activities. A reviewer mentioned, "There is a pool, playground, gaga ball pit, and fishing," making it a hit for families.

What you should know:

  • Privacy Concerns: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Cosby Campground noted, "The sites were cramped with little privacy," so be prepared for a more communal experience.
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Smokemont Campground lacks showers, which some campers found inconvenient.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be aware of wildlife, especially bears. A visitor at Greenbrier Campground mentioned, "Due to the amount of black bears in the area, they’re very vigilant about keeping trash in trash cans."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of family-friendly activities. Campers at Lake Powhatan enjoyed the "nice hike around the lake and the fun little lake beach," perfect for kids.
  • Pack Snacks: Keep everyone energized with snacks. A family at Bear Den Family Campground found that "the kids loved the playground and there were a lot of other kids to make friends with."
  • Choose the Right Site: Look for sites that offer more space. One camper at Table Rock State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are gravel, but it’s very large gravel that is difficult to walk on," so consider your family's needs when selecting a spot.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Asheville East KOA noted, "The layout isn’t super attractive," which can be a concern for larger rigs.
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds are near train tracks. One camper at Asheville East KOA mentioned, "Trains come through near the park at all hours of the day and night," so be ready for some noise.
  • Use Online Resources: Download offline maps before you go. A visitor at Greenbrier Campground recommended, "I would recommend downloading offline maps, as there is little cell service between the campground and downtown Gatlinburg."

Camping near Horse Shoe, North Carolina, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With beautiful scenery and plenty of activities, it's a great spot to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Horse Shoe, NC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Horse Shoe, NC is Pisgah National Forest Dispersed with a 4.6-star rating from 12 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Horse Shoe, NC?

    TheDyrt.com has all 30 dispersed camping locations near Horse Shoe, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.