Best Dispersed Camping near Lake Junaluska, NC

Dispersed camping near Lake Junaluska offers several free primitive sites within Pisgah National Forest. Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites, Black Balsam Knob, and Wash Creek provide no-cost options for tent and small vehicle camping. Most sites feature basic fire rings but no other amenities. According to reviews, Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites is "free and close to great views of the mountains near the Blue Ridge Parkway," though campers should expect "a lot of day use hikers" during peak seasons.

Access to most dispersed sites requires careful navigation on unpaved forest roads. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for reaching FS 289 Pull Off, where one camper noted "you need a good off-road capable vehicle to access this site." Many roads contain potholes and rough sections, particularly after rain. No drinking water is available at any sites; campers must bring their own supply or filter from streams. Cell service is extremely limited or nonexistent throughout the area.

Weather conditions vary significantly with elevation. Blue Ridge Roadside sites are "fairly high in elevation, so it gets cool at night" even during summer months. Pack appropriate sleeping gear for potentially cold nights. Fire regulations follow standard Forest Service rules, with established fire rings at most sites. Campers should practice Leave No Trace principles, as several reviewers mentioned accumulated trash at popular sites. Most locations accommodate only small groups and are not suitable for RVs or large trailers. Sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. During summer weekends and holidays, early arrival is essential to secure a spot.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Lake Junaluska, North Carolina (46)

    1. Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites

    8 Reviews
    Balsam Grove, NC
    15 miles
    Website

    "Right off the road, the short couple yards dirt road entrance to the campsite had a couple big pot holes that requires accurate driving around, but the campsite had at least three spots for seclusion for"

    "Good place for me to overnight, there are no facilities, the entrance is a bit hidden google maps will get you very close look for the small tent sign on your right when headed away from the parkway my"

    2. Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping

    6 Reviews
    Balsam Grove, NC
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    "Perfect for tent camping right off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Campsites are next to the road under the pine trees or you can camp on top of the mountain."

    "You MUST camp outside of 1000ft from road. You WILL get investigated by park Rangers, which stepped up enforcement of this stupid, pointless law around 2 years ago."

    3. FS 289 Pull Off

    2 Reviews
    Hartford, NC
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 257-4200

    "You need a good off road capable vehicle to access this site but it is very peaceful with a nice stream running by."

    "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."

    4. Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Balsam Grove, NC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    "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)."

    "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."

    5. Sunburst Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Waynesville, NC
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 577-4910

    $25 / night

    6. Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off

    2 Reviews
    Mills River, NC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    "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."

    7. Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4 and #5

    3 Reviews
    Mills River, NC
    19 miles

    "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"

    "I was looking for an easy and free site to post up for several days near Asheville and this was all I needed.

    Primitive site and right next to another."

    8. Upper Cove Creek - UCC2 Dispersed

    1 Review
    Brevard, NC
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    "Not 100% sure it is a spot as it is not marked but signs may have been damaged and it does show a tent symbol on the forest service map."

    9. 475b

    2 Reviews
    Brevard, NC
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

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

    "Road is a little rough but not terrible. 3-4 spots to park around this hairpin with 3 camping spots lotuses in the middle."

    10. Mills River Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Mills River, NC
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

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

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Lake Junaluska, NC

96 Reviews of 46 Lake Junaluska Campgrounds



Guide to Lake Junaluska

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lake Junaluska, North Carolina, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With various options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites

  • Located in Canton, this area offers a peaceful setting with the soothing sounds of Flat Laurel Creek nearby, making it ideal for relaxation.
  • Campers can enjoy the freedom of no permits required and the ability to have fires, enhancing the outdoor experience.
  • With easy access for both drive-in and walk-in camping, Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites is a convenient choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Lake Junaluska, North Carolina

  • When visiting Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping, be prepared for strong winds at higher elevations, especially if camping overnight.
  • This location is known for its breathtaking views and proximity to hiking trails, making it a great base for outdoor adventures.
  • Remember to pack out what you pack in, as this area is popular with day hikers and can get busy during peak seasons.

Scenic spots for dispersed camping enthusiasts

  • Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed offers secluded sites surrounded by beautiful forest, perfect for those seeking tranquility away from the crowds.
  • The area features a gorgeous waterfall nearby, providing a refreshing spot to cool off after a day of hiking.
  • With no amenities available, campers should come prepared with all necessary supplies, including water and food, to fully enjoy their stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Lake Junaluska, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Lake Junaluska, NC is Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites with a 3.6-star rating from 8 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 46 dispersed camping locations near Lake Junaluska, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.