Dispersed camping sites near Little Switzerland, North Carolina range in elevation from 2,500 to 6,000 feet within Pisgah National Forest. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing at higher elevations, with summer highs rarely exceeding 85°F. Several camping areas require stream crossings that become impassable after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Swimming at natural pools: Steele Creek offers multiple swimming spots with small waterfalls. "This area is beautiful and pure peace compared to the others in the area! There is 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," notes camper Kylie B.
Hiking to waterfalls: Upper Creek in Pisgah National Forest provides access to several waterfall trails. "There are numerous waterfalls to hike to, one of which is a short hike from the end of the road," explains Robin B. The trails range from beginner-friendly to moderate difficulty.
Night sky viewing: Free camping near Little Switzerland at Old NC 105 Dispersed offers exceptional stargazing from ridge-top sites. "Old NC 105 is a dirt road which goes on for miles with views both sides. Some spots are very shaded deep into the trees while others afford superb views of the gorge and distant Lake James," according to Andy K.
What campers like
Creek sounds: Many campers prefer sites positioned near moving water for natural white noise. "I got the best spot in all the dispersed sites here. Big space, right next to the creek. All I heard was the water and some faint crickets hanging on in November. Best part, No highway sound!" reports David H. at Upper Creek.
Privacy between sites: Steele Creek provides more secluded camping options. "This is 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," states Kylie B.
Forest camping availability: Midweek visits substantially increase chances of finding prime sites. "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," notes Robin B. about Upper Creek. Weekend arrivals often require arrival before 3pm to secure desirable spots.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require careful driving. At Victor Road Dispersed, "The road is initially pavement but quickly turns to packed gravel. The road is a little rough in spots, but I had zero issues in my Honda Accord," explains Kevin G.
Water planning: Drinking water is generally unavailable. "My favorite spot in the pisgah national forest...biggest con for me is I use a pump filter to fill up water no camp sight that I could find had access to the river that runs along this road so make sure to bring plenty of bottled water," advises David P.
Cell service: Coverage varies dramatically by location. "My Starlink worked great! Road coming in is winding and you have to cross a submerged bridge. A few cars went by, but it's not a thru road, so they passed again shortly after," mentions Christie S. about National Forest Road/Steele Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: National Forest Road/Steele Creek offers natural water play areas. "This place is spectacular, a lovely creek/river with swimming pools. Campfire rock rings. There's probably about 10 spots," reports Brianna W.
Bug protection: Insect activity increases near water sources. "The sound of the creek was nice but I did get eaten alive by mosquitos and I found a tick on my chair so be on the lookout," warns Brenna M. about Steele Creek. Ticks remain active even during cooler months.
Site selection: Most sites accommodate tents better than vehicles. "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, and it was already taken," notes Michael W.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: Some roads require higher clearance vehicles. In Linville Gorge Wilderness, "The road was a bit rough in spots but 4x4 isn't necessary. I hiked down to the river where the waterfall is and that was pretty cool. Moderate difficulty on that trail," explains Monte W.
Leveling challenges: Finding level spots can be difficult. "Worst case scenario you'll have to choose a spot without a view but there are so many pull off spots that I wouldn't be too worried about not finding one, you just may be not as secluded and able to see another camper," advises Sam C.
Creek crossings: Some routes require fording water. "We drove up on a Saturday and it wasn't too crowded, definitely people around but plenty of open campsites. There were a couple of good washouts in the road, so 4WD or AWD would be recommended but maybe not required," notes Raquella about Linville Gorge.
