Best Dispersed Camping near Morganton, NC
The Morganton area offers several free dispersed camping options within Pisgah National Forest. Old NC 105 Dispersed Camping features numerous primitive sites along a 13.8-mile dirt road between Lake James and Linville Falls, with some sites providing mountain views. Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping on NC 128 offers roadside pull-offs with access to gorge hiking. Additional options include Steele Creek, Upper Creek, and Victor Road Dispersed camping areas, all providing basic primitive camping experiences without facilities.
Most dispersed sites in this region are marked only by established fire rings. According to reviews, the dirt roads accessing these sites vary significantly in quality. Several campers noted that while 4WD vehicles are recommended, particularly for Old NC 105, many standard vehicles can navigate the roads with careful driving. As one visitor reported, "The road is pretty washed out in some areas but if you have a good vehicle and are careful, it should be no problem." No drinking water is available at most sites; campers should bring all necessary water or equipment to filter from streams.
These free camping areas permit fires in established rings, but no facilities are provided. Campers must pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles. Cell service varies by location, with Old NC 105 reportedly having good coverage in some areas. Sites can fill quickly on weekends and during peak seasons. Some locations experience significant road noise and traffic, even at night. The Pisgah National Forest dispersed camping regulations apply to all these sites, with a typical 14-day stay limit. Water access for swimming is available at Steele Creek, where "a walking trail at the end of the road has the best swimming hole."
