Best Dispersed Camping near Jefferson, NC

Jefferson, NC is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Jefferson is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Jefferson, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Jefferson, North Carolina (17)

    1. Whitetop

    5 Reviews
    Whitetop, VA
    18 miles

    "Nice spot to pitch a tent or for car camping. Whitetop mountain has some of the best views in VA and is very popular for watching sunsets."

    "Great view but the drive in is a bumpy rock terrain so some clearance is a must .

    Signal at the hill top T-mobile 2 bars LTE"

    2. Scales Trailhead Basecamp

    3 Reviews
    Troutdale, VA
    18 miles

    "Yes, the road in is rocky (& not short...probly 45 mins from the road to the campground), but anything with Subaru Outback ground clearance will be fine.

    The campground itself is great! "

    "Once reaching the off road trail my partner got nervous, feeling as if our Forrester wouldn’t make it up. My advice… come prepared. I got. Flat on the way up and was able to make it to my campsite."

    3. Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

    6 Reviews
    Damascus, VA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 265-5100

    "At the intersection of the North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia state lines, sits this national forest which offers multiple dispersed camping areas along Bear Creek."

    "Coordinates take you right to the site and there’s a small gravel road you can pull into. The campsite is directly off the forest road, maybe 20 feet."

    4. Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

    11 Reviews
    Sugar Grove, VA
    27 miles
    Website

    "Located in the Mount Rogers Recreation Area, there are multiple free national forest camping spots along the creek, just off Hwy 58. The sound of the creek seemed to drowned out all road noise."

    "It is a little close to the main road, as others have mentioned, but it was still removed enough for me to feel remote. The creek is loud and the trees offered privacy."

    5. Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he

    13 Reviews
    Linville Falls, NC
    42 miles
    Website

    "We hiked down to the gorge and also enjoyed the dispersed camping available right along the riverside, which was pretty cool but... that hike back up is a DOOZY especially with a pack on."

    "Lots of pull offs off a dirt road. Beware if you’re coming from the south google tries to take you through private property."

    7. Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area

    3 Reviews
    Butler, TN
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 735-1500

    "Stayed a night out here while traveling, scary narrow rocky trails, but beautiful streams and mountains"

    8. Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC

    4 Reviews
    Jonas Ridge, NC
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 257-4200

    "This is one of many forest roads in this area with free camping. I went during the week and had the entire area to myself."

    "very nice and beautiful camped right next to the upper creek. the state road was in good shape but steep narrow and lots of switch backs but well worth it"

    9. Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry

    3 Reviews
    Roan Mountain, NC
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 689-9694

    "Beautiful 6000’ bald off the AT and along the state line between North Carolina and Tennessee, plenty of places to pitch a tent. Firewood is scarce so bring a lantern and cook stove."

    "The Appalachian Trail is frequently referred to as The Green Tunnel because of the amazing wormhole effect of trees, rhododendron and other vegetation that shroud your views. But not here!"

    10. Steele Creek

    3 Reviews
    Jonas Ridge, NC
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 652-2144

    "There’s a nice big spot at the end of the trail where you could rooftop tent/car camp, but the actual site is about 100’ away."

    "This is my favorite spot in the pisgah national forest . I have stayed at all the free campsites around and left my review for each. This is by far the quietest, nicest, cleanest , site yet !"

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 17 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Jefferson, NC

63 Reviews of 17 Jefferson Campgrounds



Guide to Jefferson

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Jefferson, North Carolina, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots to pitch a tent and enjoy the great outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Dispersed campers should check out Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

  • Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites features multiple sites along Bear Creek, providing ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and fishing.
  • Campers can enjoy the sound of the creek while being surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery, making it a picturesque spot for relaxation.
  • Be prepared to pack out any trash, as some visitors have noted litter left behind by others, emphasizing the importance of leaving no trace.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Jefferson, North Carolina

Stunning views at Whitetop for dispersed campers

  • Whitetop offers breathtaking views and is a fantastic location for watching sunsets, making it a favorite among campers seeking scenic beauty.
  • The drive up can be a bit intimidating for first-timers, but the stunning vistas make the journey worthwhile.
  • With limited cell service, this spot allows for a true escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, perfect for those looking to disconnect.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Jefferson, NC is Whitetop with a 4.2-star rating from 5 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 17 dispersed camping locations near Jefferson, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.