Pisgah National Forest offers extensive dispersed tent camping near Linville, North Carolina, with sites located along forest service roads at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet. Summer temperatures in this region typically reach daytime highs of 75-85°F, with nighttime lows dropping to 55-65°F. Most dispersed camping areas require campers to position tents at least 100 feet from water sources and 200 feet from developed recreation areas.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Several campgrounds provide direct access to waterfall hikes, including Mortimer Campground where a "1/2 mile round trip hike to a waterfall on the property" is available according to camper Tanner G. The nearby Wilson Creek area offers additional waterfall access points within short hiking distance.
Swimming holes: Natural swimming areas are abundant near tent camping sites throughout the region. At Steele Creek, campers find "access to the creek for swimming" as noted by Kenny L., with another camper mentioning "a walking trail at the end of the road about 100 feet from our site, that had the best swimming hole at the end of it, where you can jump in."
Mountain summit hiking: For experienced hikers, tent camping serves as a base for challenging summit treks. The Mount Mitchell trail starts near some camping areas and rises 3,600 feet over 5.5 miles to the summit. As one camper described the Black Mountain Crest Trail, it "has beautiful views, and is moderate to strenuous, with some ups and downs, rocks, boulders, steps and ropes."
What campers like
Creek-side tent spots: Many campers specifically seek tent sites adjacent to flowing water. At Black Bear Campground, "camp site are far enough away from each other some are close enough for couple families together" according to Lisa D., while Robin B. notes the sites "have tent pads and 2 parking spots. Many of the sites are a short walk from the car which affords privacy."
Fire rings and cooking options: Most established campgrounds provide fire rings at each site, though styles vary. At Briar Bottom Group Campground, "Each site has a fire ring and two grills" as described by Katy S., making meal preparation easier for tent campers.
Private camping setup: Tent campers appreciate secluded sites with natural separation. At Steele Creek, one camper noted it's "by far the quietest, nicest, cleanest, site yet! There are plenty of sites to pick from all along the creek, all of which appear to be well maintained, each with a fire ring."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many tent camping areas require travel on unpaved roads. Regarding Steele Creek, camper Michael W. advises "Road wasn't too bad, only a spot or 2 on the switchback that were probably best for a 4 wheel drive vehicle, but I'm sure most cars would be fine." Similar conditions exist throughout the region.
Site availability timing: Arriving early is essential for securing prime tent sites, particularly at non-reservable locations. For Pisgah National Forest Dispersed sites, Mike M. suggests: "Get there early as possible as people can post up for a week there."
Tent placement challenges: The mountainous terrain creates limitations for tent positioning. At many sites, Michael W. observed "all but 1 site were best for tents" indicating the terrain favors tent camping over other accommodation types, though finding level spots can require searching.
Tips for camping with families
Shelter access: When tent camping with children, sites with built-in rain protection are valuable. Katy S. describes Briar Bottom's amenities: "Each campsite has a huge covered shelter with a number of picnic tables underneath, which is super nice in the rain."
Multiple tent accommodation: For family tent camping, some sites better accommodate group setups. At Camp Attocoa, Jay H. notes the owner "will haul you and your gear in and out," making access easier for families with children and multiple tents.
Swimming safety: Family-friendly swimming spots vary in accessibility and safety. One camper at Steele Creek reported the area has "a couple small waterfalls to add to the ambience" near swimming holes, though parents should note water temperatures remain cool even in summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most dispersed tent camping areas near Linville have significant RV limitations. Michael W. noted about Steele Creek: "Maybe I missed this in the reviews, but all but 1 site were best for tents. I drove in to camp in my car and there was only 1 spot, which is by the creek crossing."
Trailer accessibility: Small trailers can access some tent-focused campgrounds with preparation. At Mortimer Campground, Cody B. reports: "We stayed in a tent. Had some friends stay next to us in a class b. A small trailer would fit, nothing big. No W/E/S but great place."
Tent-focused alternatives: When full hookups aren't available, tent camping becomes the practical option. Many RVers who typically prefer hook-ups opt for tent camping in this region due to the limitations, with one camper at Black Bear Campground noting their sites "have tent pads and 2 parking spots."
