Anna M.
Scout
ScoutOld NC 105 - Dispersed Camping
great spot
got lucky and found a great spot right across the road from beautiful viewpoint. road was busier during the day but calmed down at night. enjoyed our visit
Camping near Linville Falls, NC
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
The Linville Falls area in western North Carolina features diverse camping options along the Blue Ridge Parkway and throughout Linville Gorge Wilderness. Established campgrounds like Linville Falls Campground at Milepost 316.3 provide basic amenities with 70 sites for tents and RVs, while Spacious Skies Bear Den offers full hookup sites with family-friendly facilities. For those seeking more solitude, dispersed camping is available along Old NC 105 and within the Linville Gorge Wilderness, where primitive sites offer stunning mountain views. The region's camping landscape ranges from developed facilities with showers and electric hookups to remote backcountry sites accessible only by foot.
Camping conditions vary significantly by season, with most established campgrounds operating from April through October. As one camper noted, "I recommend camping no earlier than June unless you don't mind the cold. Nights can get chilly in the mountains." Many primitive sites in Linville Gorge require advance notification to rangers about camping plans. Dirt and gravel roads accessing dispersed camping areas can be rough but are generally passable with standard vehicles. According to a visitor, "The road is all dirt and gravel and can get a little rough. It's much easier with a 4WD vehicle, but we saw sedans and minivans driving it." Bear activity necessitates proper food storage, with bear lockers available at some campgrounds.
Proximity to natural attractions represents a major draw for campers in the area. The Linville Falls trails range from easy to strenuous, with the Gorge Trail offering what reviewers call "amazing views of falls." Fall foliage season attracts significant crowds, with one visitor noting, "We went the third weekend in October and the fall leaf color was gorgeous!" Hammock camping is popular due to abundant trees, with some sites allowing hammock setup near the falls. Trout fishing in Linville River provides additional recreation during appropriate seasons, though fishing regulations apply. Limited cell service exists throughout the region, though some private campgrounds offer WiFi access. Campers consistently praise the area for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty.
Best Campgrounds near Linville Falls (329)
1. Spacious Skies 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."
"Located directly off Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 324.8 Spruce Pine N.C. Site are level well shaded with a little separation from neighboring sites."
from $24 - $999 / night
Check Availability2. Linville Falls Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
"Another lovely campground along the BRP, close to Linville Falls and gorge, picnic area and visitor center."
"Don't miss Linville Falls, but especially don't miss the drive up to an amazing lookout over Linville Falls Gorge if your vehicle can handle a pretty bumpy drive up the mountainside."
from $30 - $45 / night
Check Availability3. Roan Mountain State Park Campground
"Fire pits you had to walk up to but were away from tents, which I liked. Bathhouse was clean, well lit, pretty warm showers. Campground was very clean and has a lot of amenities."
"Great tent pads with running water located right next to every pad. Plenty of hiking and biking to do. Pool and playground for the kids to enjoy, a great place for easy camping."
4. Julian Price Park Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
"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."
"This campground is on a beautiful lake. There is no swimming on the lake(its pretty shallow) but awesome for kayaking and paddleboarding."
from $30 / night
Check Availability5. Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping
"This was our first stop on our first trip to North Carolina and now we don’t want to leave!"
"Headed up the road from Lake James to find this stunning view down into the gorge from our site. Technically, the GPS coordinates for this site will take you a little further up the road."
6. Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
"We often camp in and around the Linville Gorge area, mostly in the primitive campsites down in the Gorge on Linville River. We stayed before Hurricane Helene but haven't been back since then."
"Take 221 to linville falls, right on 183, and right onto kistler memorial highway. It’s a dirt road but no issues with my Subaru Forester. I camped here in December 2020 and didn’t see anyone else."
7. Mountain River Family Campground
"Love this family owned campground tucked away by the Toe River near Spruce Pine NC and the BRP. Linville Falls. Eat at Famous Louise’s."
"This is the kind of campground we would feel good about our kids biking around in the evening as they chase fire flies and meet new friends! "
8. Grandfather Campground
"The campsite is always clean and friendly staff are there ready to answer questions on where to hike, eat and about the wildlife that's in this area of Western North Carolina."
"The positives: Location: very close to Grandfather Mountain entrance and BRP. There are plenty of stores, restaurants, antiques nearby too."
from $35 - $42 / night
Check Availability9. Table Rock Campsites (Linville Gorge Wilderness)
"My photos are from the Linville Falls side of the old highway that goes past the falls parking lot. Spaces are first come, first served dispersed camping. Leave no trace!"
"Be sure to have 4WD (preferably a off-roading vehicle) to make it up some parts of the road.
The spot was massive and could easily fit 5+ vehicles and sleep 20 comfortably."10. Steele Creek Park & Campground
"The close proximity to Linville Falls, Blowing Rock and the Blue Ridge Parkway was perfect. We will definitely be back to explore the area more."
"Friends of my went and paddled the Wilson Gorge close by. Tubed down the river, just plenty to do for a weekend trip."
Drive Time
- 1 hr 1 min from Johnson City, TN
- 1 hr 16 min from Asheville, NC
- 1 hr 18 min from Kingsport, TN
Recent Camping Photos near Linville Falls, NC
584 Photos of 329 Linville Falls Campgrounds
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Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
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Linville Falls Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
marisa
Mountain River Family Campground
The Dyrt
Mountain River Family Campground
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Springmaid Mountain Cabins and Campground
Lori H.
Spacious Skies Bear Den
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Old NC 105 Dispersed
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Tranquil Highlands Campground
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Tranquil Highlands Campground
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Table Rock Campsites (Linville Gorge Wilderness)
Recent Reviews near Linville Falls, NC
1436 Reviews of 329 Linville Falls Campgrounds
- AArlene E.Scout
Campfire Lodgings
Beautiful views
Full hookups. Campground has several sites with million dollar views and a viewing point for the non view campsites to use. We would recommend it for Asheville area rv camping.
- kkathy U.Scout
Buck Creek
Amazing
I’m thrilled to give this campground my highest recommendation! The owners and staff couldn’t have been more accommodating, helpful and kind! We called that morning because the campground we were booked at turned out to be awful. They fit us in and then we ended up extending our stay. We had to keep moving sites because they had other campers coming in, but it was worth it! Our favorite sites was 54 and 27. Some sites are close, but all are on the creek so you don’t notice it at all! Nothing better than waking up to the sound of water! The campground location is perfect, 20-30 minutes from things to do like hiking and wineries.
Mike F.ScoutDoe River Landing
Ahhh-mazing
We arrived and easily got to our spot. There’s a river just behind our spot and only a handful of RVs and cabins. Our GPS wanted us to pass the turn to the campground, we had to make a U turn to get in…. Of course, on the second approach we saw the entrance signs (my bad). It looks like it is best to approach from the west (Hampton?), it was a sharp turn entering from the east (Roan Mountain). We settled in and got to relaxing quickly.
- EEric W.
GuideSugar Hollow Campground
Arrive with 1/2 tank of fuel!
It was a long day of travel for me anyways. I arrived around 17:15 and the ranger was nowhere to be seen. Honor system was full out the form and pay cash before you go find your site.
This place is better for tent campers and those with rigs 20ft and under. Our 30ft bumper-pull was no match for the narrow sites due to trees. Most sites were not level either. As advertised, no sewer hook-up, and bring at least a 50ft hose for water…better yet, bring a 100ft hose and an additional splitter. The birds were nice to hear. It was quiet throughout the night also, mainly because there were only about 10 campers in the whole park (it holds about 78).
The bathhouses were clean and bright; but only shower curtains for doors on the toilets—reminded me of my deployment to Afghanistan.
Fuel…the hill to get in and out of the park is very steep! And if you spend time trying to fit your rig into any site you might think you can fit into but can’t, you’re going to need enough fuel to make it to the next gas station! If your rig is longer than 30ft and it’s not a 5th wheel, look elsewhere.
Personally, I won’t be stopping here again. The overall park was nice; but for $20/night, it wasn’t worth the stress.
- SSara M.Guide
Doe River Landing
What a fantastic find - small, family-owned campground in mountain heaven
Doe River Landing is a small, delightful RV and cabin camping park that sits on the banks of the Doe River in the Roan Mountain valley of TN. We enjoyed our stay enough that we extended a few extra days. Five shaded, landscaped RV sites offering water/electric are located about 20 yards from the river’s edge. An additional site offers a fully-outfitted rental RV. Sites are pea gravel and mostly level. Luxury rental cabins(5) are available along with a truly awesome rental pavilion outfitted for larger group gatherings. The friendly hosts live in a home nearby and were around daily during our stay.
For a small family campground the amenities are super nice. The top-notch children’s playground and toy shed obviously delighted guest’s children. Wi-Fi signal is strong enough for streaming. Nice, clean bathhouse. Public grills are available. Hiking trails meander along the river and up through their woods.
There are few places we enjoy more than the Roan Mountain area for camping. The location is fantastic and even peak summer temperatures are usually comfortable. Roan Mountain State Park is minutes away for hiking and a slew of activities, while the top of Roan Mountain houses the famous wild Rhododendron Gardens. The AT and multiple hiking trails run along the top of the mountain.
There were only a few considerations with this venue.
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The sites are mostly level although we needed two OxBlocks in each of the sites we stayed in. One needed leveling front-to-back, the other side-to-side. When Hurricane Helene scoured the area it likely left some dips in the parking pads.
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The bathhouse contains one toilet and shower, both housed in the same room which can tie them up for long periods.
3) There may be some day and night traffic noise as large trucks involved in repairs from Hurricane Helene are still active.
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The approach is rather challenging. New lighted signage helps identify where their single-lane entrance road takes a HARD fork off US-19E. Be sure to check the Directions tab on their website. If you are arriving from the north (through Elizabethton) you will be able to pull directly onto Bob Ray Rd.(entrance to the right of the little Bible church). Approaching from the south on US-19E is more difficult. Bob Ray Rd basically runs parallel to US-19E which requires essentially a U-turn across 2-3 lanes to accomplish. The host suggests turning through the closed fruit stand parking lot(on the left within sight of the entrance) but we weren’t sure about it given on-coming traffic. We elected to drive~ 2 miles further down 19E and U-turn across the left shoulder.
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Bob Ray Rd is a single-lane road. Based on timing for check-in/check-out you are unlikely to meet another RV coming at you(thankfully!)
Multiple choices for food in the area. The Whiteway Grill– less than 5 minutes away- offers fabulous breakfasts. Smoky Mountain Bakers is beyond awesome! Wood-fired pizza for dinner and breakfast plates from simple sandwiches to breakfast burritos, pancakes and French toast. We find excuses to eat here during the week. Every meal we’ve had at Puerto Escondido Mexican restaurant was huge(as in leftovers) and tasty.
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- SSherry S.
TravelerUpper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC
Very nice!
I camped on Forest Road 982. There were quite a few people camping along this road, but I found a really good spot by the large creek. The campsites are pretty far from each other so the privacy is good. I stayed one night. Will definitely go back.
- KKatie M.Scout
Dark Ridge HideOut (Adults Only)
Awesome private campground!
The owner was super nice and gave us all the info we needed! Very close to the falls to swim at and hike to (wear hiking shoes to get to the falls) over all great quiet little campground!
- JJanet P.Scout
Roan Creek Campground
Constant harassment from owners
This campground is not 420 friendly! It’s Tn where MJ is illegal. We have RX but we were harassed non stop. One day the owner said to smoke by River, next day somewhere else! Owner also would snoop around my camper to upset my Belgian Mal. We spent a miserable summer here May-Nov. Never again! All was ok until we set up!
Guide to Linville Falls
Dispersed camping in the Linville Falls area offers access to remote sites along Old NC 105, with elevations ranging from 2,500-3,000 feet providing cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands. The gravel forest road winds for approximately 13 miles between NC 181 and the Blue Ridge Parkway, with multiple primitive campsites situated along ridgelines and at scenic overlooks. Weather patterns can shift rapidly, with temperature differences of 15-20 degrees between daytime and nighttime, even during summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple streams in the area provide trout fishing options, especially near Roan Mountain State Park Campground. "We camped on the river and looks like they are making some improvements to the property," notes one camper at Grandfather Campground. Another visitor mentioned, "A creek to fly fish in... very quiet, very outdoorsy, fire pits, close to Mast General Store, close to restaurant and Grandfather Mountain!"
Hiking to Hebron Rock Colony: This unique geological formation offers scrambling opportunities over massive boulders with swimming holes along the route. A camper at Julian Price Park Campground reports, "There is a hiking trail that goes around the lake. There's also a trail that you can access from the park that leads to Hebron Rock Colony which is an incredible hiking trail. The trail follows a river with lots of great swimming holes and the rock colony is incredible."
Waterfall exploration: Multiple cascades beyond the main Linville Falls attract fewer crowds. "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," shares a visitor to Spacious Skies Bear Den.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many dispersed sites provide isolation despite increasing popularity. A camper at Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping notes, "If you take your time and they are available there are a few spots on both sides of the road with wonderful views. The beginning of the road from either side is easy enough to get down but in the middle it gets really rough."
Winter camping options: Several campgrounds operate year-round with notably fewer visitors during cold months. According to a Julian Price Park Campground visitor, "My children and I camped in the tent only loop, as a base for adventures in Boone, Grandfather Mountain, and the BRP. The roads were in need of maintenance, but everything else was great!"
Cave exploration: Unusual rock formations create natural shelters used by campers. One adventurous group at Table Rock Campsites shared, "A couple buddies and I went camping on Table Rock, found a cave, crawled through it for about 100 feet and found the most beautiful camping spot we have ever seen."
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "We had the last drive up site towards the top of the mountain facing Morganton, which was gorgeous. Not very secluded and not much flat ground but a great view. The last night was beautiful and the stars were incredible."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many dispersed sites requires careful driving. A visitor to Old NC 105 advises, "I saw a lot of reviews about absolutely needing an AWD vehicle with good clearance but I maneuvered my way through the road with my little Hyundai. You definitely need to be a confident driver if you do that though."
Bathroom facilities: Amenities vary significantly between campgrounds. A camper at Linville Falls Campground shared, "The bathroom facilities were very clean and made the stay much easier, especially since we were camping with kids." Conversely, at Julian Price Park, a visitor noted, "The restrooms in A loop are old and need updating. There are no showers in A loop. The only showers are between B and D loops."
Site selection strategy: Campsite quality can vary dramatically within the same area. A Table Rock camper advises, "I looked at other campsites, but the one we chose couldn't have been more perfect. Other than cooking and sleeping, you will not want to spend a whole lot of time at the campsite because of the trails and the views."
Traffic noise: Some sites experience unexpected vehicle disturbance. A camper at Old NC 105 reported, "The car traffic is horrible, even in the middle of the night. Even until 4am we could hear and see cars driving up and down this terribly bumpy gravel road."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer developed play areas for children. At Spacious Skies Bear Den, a visitor notes, "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."
Cabin options: Alternative accommodations suit families new to camping. "We stayed in a 'Cozy Cabin'. They are bigger than they look in the picture. There is a countertop next to the front door and plenty of room for all of our gear. There is a water spigot and electrical outlet on the outside and two outlets inside the cabin," reports a camper at Spacious Skies Bear Den.
Pet-friendly areas: Many campgrounds accommodate dogs with dedicated spaces. A visitor to Mountain River Family Campground shared, "Not only were the pets included, but they have a dog park area that they can run free and stretch their legs!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup variability: Electric service differs between campgrounds. At Grandfather Campground, a visitor notes, "We stayed here 10 days in our 34-foot travel trailer and were very happy with our stay. The sites are fairly level, long but a little narrow. Because of the slope, there isn't much 'yard' space, just a platform with a picnic table."
Site leveling challenges: Terrain creates parking difficulties at some campgrounds. A Grandfather Campground visitor advised, "The site was quite un-level side to side, and we couldn't get our trailer completely level side to side. The site was a bit tough to maneuver into (doable, though!)"
Bridge access limitations: Some campgrounds have narrow entrance points. The Mountain River Family Campground reviewer mentioned, "When you turn into the campground, you will cross a narrow 1-lane bridge across Watagua Creek."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Linville Falls, NC?
What camping is available near Linville Falls, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, Linville Falls, NC offers a wide range of camping options, with 329 campgrounds and RV parks near Linville Falls, NC and 19 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Linville Falls, NC?
Which is the most popular campground near Linville Falls, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Linville Falls, NC is Spacious Skies Bear Den with a 4.7-star rating from 51 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Linville Falls, NC?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Linville Falls, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 free dispersed camping spots near Linville Falls, NC.
What parks are near Linville Falls, NC?
What parks are near Linville Falls, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 27 parks near Linville Falls, NC that allow camping, notably Pisgah National Forest and W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir.
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