Top Free Dispersed Camping near Hot Springs, NC

Want to go dispersed camping near Hot Springs? The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Hot Springs, NC (24)

    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
    507 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 FS 289 Pull Off
    Camper-submitted photo from FS 289 Pull Off
    Camper-submitted photo from FS 289 Pull Off
    Camper-submitted photo from FS 289 Pull Off

    2. FS 289 Pull Off

    2 Reviews
    5 Photos
    77 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Paint Creek Corridor
    Camper-submitted photo from Paint Creek Corridor
    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 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 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
    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

      8. Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

      3 Reviews
      2 Photos
      146 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 Henderson Reservoir Dispersed Site #1
      Camper-submitted photo from Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry
      Camper-submitted photo from Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry
      Camper-submitted photo from Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry
      Camper-submitted photo from Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry
      Camper-submitted photo from Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry
      Camper-submitted photo from Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry
    Showing results 1-10 of 24 campgrounds

    Recent Dispersed Reviews In Hot Springs

    53 Reviews of 24 Hot Springs 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".

    • 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.

    • 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.

    • Courtney R.
      Camper-submitted photo from Moon Hill Bridge
      Jun. 7, 2024

      Moon Hill Bridge

      Moon Hill Bridge

      It's a cute cozy spot that is on either side of the road. Every spot has an area for a fire and also your car and tent. The only downside is that sometimes it does get trashy and there are a few people who live here.

    • 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.

    • HThe Dyrt PRO User
      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 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.

    • J
      Camper-submitted photo from Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping
      Feb. 17, 2023

      Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping

      The wind is no joke

      The sunset was breathtaking and the hike was very fun but if you are camping overnight, expect wind gusts that are capable of snapping tent poles. There is very little wind coverage at the top of the mountain.

    • Ethan B.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites
      Jan. 20, 2023

      Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites

      Snowy wonderland

      I saw the campsite it's a beautiful campsite but someone was already there I decide to camp at the top. The cords where I camped at the time they had roads closed off due to weather. If you take the parkway rd up to the Beech Gap you can park to the side of the road just be aware it's not a designated campsite so be respectful of the area. Woke up to beautiful views.

    • I
      Camper-submitted photo from Victor Road Dispersed
      Sep. 3, 2022

      Victor Road Dispersed

      Several spots leading to creek

      Great spot off of blue ridge parkway. There are several spots (at least 5 or so), but expect many to be occupied. The best spot appears to be at a creek crossing before the road splits. Not sure what is up there. Road is smooth, at least until the creek crossing. Several hunting cabins provide shelter as well.

    • Claire K.
      Camper-submitted photo from Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites
      Jun. 21, 2022

      Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites

      Love the stream and not bad sites

      I stayed two nights during Labor day weekend so might of been a bit more busy that weekend. Seems to be about 5 sites. 3 on the water and two more towards the road. you have to cross the river to access the other two and the terrain is a bit bumpy so many more hammock camping there. At night it’s a bit more peaceful than during the day since there isn’t any people parking to hike then. Even if people are camping near you the stream creates a nice sound barrier so you don’t really hear them. Very nice to fall asleep to the sound of the stream. I stayed for 2 nights and my stuff wasn’t messed with when i was gone hiking even though there’s a lot of foot traffic during the day. I will be returning to camp here again. Absolutely no cell service though. Some pictures included are photos from a nearby hiking spot at waterrock knob

    • matt E.
      Camper-submitted photo from Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping
      May. 14, 2022

      Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping

      Great camping spot!

      Lots of places to set up camp. We set up below the mountain, but there are spots at the top as well. The clouds are amazing you are basically in them or above them. Definitely worth the trip!

      Also recommend checking out skinny dipping falls it is about 5 miles away and about a mile round trip. Lots of fun and cool rocks to climb on. 

    • Claire K.
      Camper-submitted photo from Victor Road Dispersed
      May. 11, 2022

      Victor Road Dispersed

      Peaceful and Fun

      The site we stayed in is the first couple on the left a couple minutes after you turn onto Victor road. There was an old house that one was on the plot of land but is gone now and only the chimney still stands. Enjoyable to build fires in and very scenic. Creek also visible from this site. Lots of cars do drive down the road though which is a bit annoying. Even an older gentleman stopped to talk to us about the land and house that used to reside there. We enjoyed our stay and definitely will be back.



    Guide to Hot Springs

    Camping near Hot Springs, North Carolina, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the fire, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

    What to do:

    • Hiking: Explore the trails around the area. Campers love the access to trails like the Appalachian Trail. One reviewer from Cosby Campground mentioned, "It was a bit of a drive to the park and depending on traffic it could take a while. Otherwise it’s a clean and decent campground."
    • Fishing: The rivers and lakes nearby are great for fishing. A visitor at Davidson River Campground said, "Davidson River Campground is perfectly situated for outdoor activities, plenty of hiking, good fishing, mountain biking and climbing available all within a stone's throw from camp."
    • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A camper at Cades Cove Campground noted, "Had numerous sightings of wildlife even in the campground."

    What campers like:

    • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Greenbrier Campground highlighted, "The bathrooms were amazing. The site had okay Verizon cell service with 2 bars around 30-40mbps."
    • Scenic Views: Campgrounds in the area offer stunning views. One visitor at Elkmont Campground said, "The campground is beautiful and the park rangers were awesome."
    • Family-Friendly Activities: Many campgrounds have activities for kids. A reviewer at Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground mentioned, "The staff is very helpful, and they keep the campground clean."

    What you should know:

    • Site Privacy: Some campgrounds have closely packed sites. A camper at Cades Cove Campground noted, "Most sites are close together, and there is no brush to divide them."
    • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Cosby Campground mentioned, "It’s a clean and decent campground, but there are no showers."
    • Wildlife Precautions: Bears are common in the area. A camper at Cades Cove Campground warned, "Do not forget to remove the drip pan on the Blackstone!!!! Doing so just irritates the bears."

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and organized activities. A parent at Asheville East KOA shared, "There is a pool, playground, gaga ball pit, golf car rentals, fishing and splashing in the Swannanoa River."
    • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A camper at Lake Powhatan said, "We had a lot of fun at our glamping campsite. The gorgeous tent was on a platform and included a large bed and decorated interior."
    • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water. A reviewer at Davidson River Campground noted, "There is a nice swimming hole at camp and the bathhouses are well kept."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Asheville East KOA mentioned, "We stayed in Section A which was extremely tight for navigating, parking, and camping."
    • Use Online Resources: Check campground websites for updates on amenities. A visitor at Bear Den Family Campground said, "The bathrooms were some of the cleanest we've seen."
    • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A reviewer at Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground noted, "This campground is very close to a main road with lots of traffic and street noise."

    Camping around Hot Springs, NC, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and family-friendly activities. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Hot Springs, NC?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Hot Springs, 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 Hot Springs, NC?

      TheDyrt.com has all 24 dispersed camping locations near Hot Springs, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.