The Uwharrie National Forest region near Midland, North Carolina provides diverse primitive camping opportunities across a 50,000-acre landscape characterized by rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests. Elevations in this area range between 300-1,000 feet, creating a moderate terrain suitable for beginners while still offering challenges for experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Forest roads throughout the area can become difficult to navigate during wet weather, requiring careful planning and appropriate vehicle selection.
What to do
Creek exploration: Multiple water features throughout Uwharrie National Forest support wading and swimming opportunities. "This area can be accessed by boat on the Little River, or by hiking in. Me and my friends would always float our kayaks down the river to a place we called 'Bird Dog' and camp for the night," notes one camper about the Little River National Forest Area.
Hiking preparation: The Uwharrie region serves as excellent training grounds for longer backpacking trips. The moderate terrain and variable conditions create perfect practice conditions. "This is a great area for dispersed campers with 4WD or AWD. It's pretty popular so head out early to secure your spot," advises a visitor about Uwharrie National Forest.
Wildlife observation: Uwharrie forests support diverse wildlife populations, particularly deer. "This area was a place that I went often to deer hunt in the fall. I have never came across another camper/hunter at this location. It is a good location if you are looking for an area that is away from camp grounds and heavy traffic," reports one visitor about a secluded section of forest.
What campers like
Water filtration options: Streams throughout the area provide reliable water sources for properly equipped campers. "The streams, provided one has filtration or iodine tablets, provide ample sources of drinking water," explains a backpacker who frequented the Birkhead Mountain Wilderness Area.
Solitude opportunities: Less-traveled forest sections offer exceptional privacy for those willing to venture further from main access points. "If you are looking for a place that has very little traffic, this is the place you want to go!" shares one visitor about the Little River section of the forest.
Multi-use recreational access: The forest supports diverse activities beyond camping. "There are hiking, horse, OHV, dirt bike, ATV, and mountain bike trails," notes one camper about Robbins Branch Trail, highlighting the area's versatility.
What you should know
Fire pit availability: Most dispersed sites feature established fire containment areas. "Most sites have rock fire pits and room to set up," reports a visitor to primitive camping areas within the forest.
Trash management: Pack-out practices are essential as dispersed sites lack waste facilities. "Some of the sites may have a little trash left from the last user, so please try to leave it cleaner than you came to," advises a camper about dispersed areas.
Navigation challenges: Trail markings can be inconsistent in certain sections. "Very nice trails. Well maintained. Not marked the best... signs at intersections," notes a hiker at Dispersed Camping off Falls Dam Trail.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife safety education: Teaching children about forest inhabitants enhances safety during hunting seasons. "Make sure to wear bright colors during hunting season because there are a ton of people out deer hunting in this area," advises an experienced forest visitor.
Campsite selection priorities: Families should consider proximity to vehicles when choosing primitive sites. "The tent sites nice and clean and level. The host drove through many many times in the 3 days I was there," shares a camper regarding maintained areas within the forest.
Natural soundscapes: Sites further from highways provide better immersion experiences for children. "I hiked along the creek at what was marked as campsite 1 along the Uwharrie Trail. It was a short hike and easy to moderate. Unfortunately, it wasn't far enough away to hear distant noises from Hwy 24, so if you want to get away from traffic noise completely, hike farther in," suggests one visitor.
Tips from RVers
Generator usage: Some primitive areas allow generator use for pop-up campers. "We used our pop-up with a generator in rustic locations," explains a camper about their experience in less-developed sections.
Vehicle clearance requirements: Four-wheel drive capabilities significantly expand camping location options. "This is a great area for dispersed campers with 4WD or AWD," notes one visitor about accessing prime spots.
Site selection timing: Early arrival improves chances of securing preferred dispersed camping locations. "It's pretty popular so head out early to secure your spot," advises an experienced camper about primitive camping near Midland, North Carolina.
