Best Dispersed Camping near Murphy, NC

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Murphy. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Murphy, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Murphy, North Carolina (63)

    1. Panther Top Dispersed Site

    2 Reviews
    Tusquitee National Forest, NC
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 837-5152

    "It was nice and quiet, chilly at night, and not too far from murphy. We also hiked up to a nearby fire tower and it was a fun little hike. 10/10 will be returning."

    "Great spot right on the little lake. You can hear the gun range from the Camp Spot, but it is barely noticeable. There are two main spots right on the lake that are set up for tent camping."

    2. Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

    12 Reviews
    Robbinsville, NC
    18 miles

    "Each has a picnic table, fire pit/grill, and level area for 1-2 tents (a few can accommodate more if you’re ambitious), and lake views (most have lake access if you want to put in a kayak or canoe)."

    "The only downside to this campground is that for half of the sites the parking is across the small access road. This would be most ideal for tent camping."

    3. Fires Creek Hunters Camp/Huskins Branch

    3 Reviews
    Hayesville, NC
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 837-5152

    "This is a little loop drive across from a day use area on Fires Creek. Pick a spot, and set up your tent. There is a concrete outhouse but no potable water."

    4. Sourwood Campground

    4 Reviews
    Coker Creek, TN
    15 miles
    Website

    "You could pretty much drive by this place without giving it a second thought. I am glad I didn't. We got there late after 1pm. I was afraid that we were out of luck."

    "Google maps brought me to a spot 30 miles away"

    5. Lake Santeetlah Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Croatan National Forest, NC
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 479-6431

    "Campground Review:

    The Nantahala National Forest, due south of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is chock full of free semi-developed campsites – some are drive-up, some are boat-up, and"

    "We got a spot right on the lake. It was nice and quiet. The view was great for watching the sunset. I think there was a pit toilet but we didn’t check it out."

    6. Lake Santeelah Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Robbinsville, NC
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 257-4200

    "I was hoping to car camp a little closer to NOC but not in a campground but this is the closest I could find in February. I would definitely stay here again!"

    "GPS coordinates got me exactly to where I wanted to go. Lots of twists and turns going up the dragon with beautiful scenery of the trees changing colors in late October."

    8. Lost Creek - Cherokee NF

    9 Reviews
    Reliance, TN
    26 miles
    Website

    "The lost cove campground can be found deep in the wilderness of the Cherokee National Forest outside of Benton, TN. The campground is operated and maintained by the USFS."

    "We chose a spot next to the creek. Was clear and flowing due to a lot of rain the few days before we arrived. Sites had concrete picnic tables and a pad. We had to clean ours when we arrived."

    9. Citico Creek Area

    6 Reviews
    Tallassee, TN
    26 miles
    Website

    "My only complaint was there were cars frequently driving by throughout the night on the dirt road. Other than that, really enjoyed this place."

    "No hookups, but a majority of the 14 sites are on the creek itself. Could not recommend Citico Creek more."

    10. Bartram Trail Campground on Nantahala Lake

    1 Review
    Nantahala National Forest, NC
    23 miles
    Website

    "I stayed at this site while backpacking the Bartram Trail so check out some of my other reviews along the route to get a better idea of how to plan a trip here."

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Showing results 1-10 of 63 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Murphy, NC

108 Reviews of 63 Murphy Campgrounds



Guide to Murphy

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Murphy, North Carolina, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of sites to choose from, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the serene landscapes and recreational activities that this region has to offer.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Murphy

  • Enjoy fishing and swimming at the Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites, where the lakefront location provides ample opportunities for water activities.
  • Hike scenic trails nearby, with options for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers, especially around the Lake Santeetlah Dispersed, which features beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Experience wildlife watching and photography in the peaceful environment of Fires Creek Hunters Camp/Huskins Branch, where you can spot various species in their natural habitat.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Lake Santeetlah

  • The Lake Santeetlah Dispersed area offers well-maintained sites with easy access to the water, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing getaway.
  • Campers can enjoy the convenience of nearby amenities, including a toilet facility and picnic tables, enhancing the overall camping experience.
  • With multiple sites available, this location is ideal for both tent and RV camping, accommodating a variety of camping styles.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Murphy, North Carolina

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at popular locations like Panther Top Dispersed Site, which can fill up quickly on weekends.
  • Be prepared for primitive conditions; many sites, such as Sourwood Campground, do not offer amenities like running water or electric hookups, so plan accordingly.
  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep these beautiful areas clean and enjoyable for future visitors, particularly at sites like Beach Creek Camp, where maintaining the natural environment is crucial.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Murphy, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Murphy, NC is Panther Top Dispersed Site with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Murphy, NC?

TheDyrt.com has all 63 dispersed camping locations near Murphy, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.