Best Dispersed Camping near Nantahala National Forest

Looking for the best campgrounds near Nantahala National Forest, NC? 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 Nantahala National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Nantahala National Forest (67)

    1. Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

    14 Reviews
    Robbinsville, NC
    17 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."

    2. Wesser Bald Fire Tower

    2 Reviews
    Almond, NC
    7 miles
    Website

    "The best option would be to bring a hammock and perch up in some of the nearby trees. There is a small spot on the ground you could set up a tent or just sleep on top of the firepower."

    3. Siler Bald Trail Shelter TR 373

    2 Reviews
    Nantahala National Forest, NC
    4 miles
    Website

    "Closest shelter to the bald where you can get an amazing view. Well cared for and in an incredible area. Just be prepared for a climb to see the view."

    4. Lake Santeelah Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Robbinsville, NC
    18 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."

    5. Bartram Trail Campground on Nantahala Lake

    1 Review
    Nantahala National Forest, NC
    1 mile
    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."

    6. Bartram Trail Campground Past Wayah Bald

    1 Review
    Nantahala National Forest, NC
    6 miles
    Website

    "After continuing on the trail heading east leaving from Wayah Bald you pass several large open fields which could work for setting up camp and eventually you get to this site which is a little more of"

    7. 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."

    8. Albert Mountain Firetower Dispersed Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Otto, NC
    12 miles
    Website

    "You can access this campsite by various means, but do your research and save yourself as many steps, because make no mistake, this is a serious hiking trail (a mile to a mile and a half, depending"

    "This campground is located at the top of Albert Mountain right next to the fire tower. It is along a section of the AT and is a great place to camp for the night."

    9. Bartram Trail Campground near Franklin

    2 Reviews
    Franklin, NC
    11 miles
    Website

    "Set up camp along the trail. Couple of places have been flattened out by previous campers; made setup a breeze. Plenty of places for a hammock as well."

    10. Fires Creek Hunters Camp/Huskins Branch

    3 Reviews
    Hayesville, NC
    15 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."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Nantahala National Forest

124 Reviews of 67 Nantahala National Forest Campgrounds



Guide to Nantahala National Forest

Dispersed camping near Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of sites available, campers can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the wilderness.

Dispersed campers should check out Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

  • This site features established amenities like a fire circle, grill, and picnic table, making it a comfortable choice for those looking to enjoy a quiet getaway.
  • Located near a scenic walking and hiking trail, visitors can explore the area while enjoying views of the lake, perfect for a day of adventure.
  • Pets are welcome, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the experience at Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina

  • Always check for road conditions before heading to Lake Santeetlah Dispersed, as the access road can be bumpy and winding, especially in inclement weather.
  • Be prepared for a primitive experience; while some sites have picnic tables and fire rings, others may lack amenities like toilets and running water, so plan accordingly.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, as these areas can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

Exploring the beauty of Wesser Bald Fire Tower for dispersed campers

  • Camping near the Wesser Bald Fire Tower provides breathtaking views, making the hike worthwhile for those seeking stunning sunrises and sunsets.
  • The site is accessible via a hike, so be ready for a bit of a trek to reach this picturesque location, which is ideal for those who enjoy a challenge.
  • With no amenities available, campers should bring all necessary supplies, including water and food, to fully enjoy their stay at Wesser Bald Fire Tower.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best dispersed camping areas in Nantahala National Forest?

Nantahala National Forest offers excellent dispersed camping options for various preferences. Lake Santeetlah Dispersed is highly recommended with multiple waterfront sites featuring picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for kayakers. For those seeking seclusion with water access, Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites provides primitive sites with picnic tables, fire pits, and lake views. Other notable areas include sites near Wayah Bald along the Appalachian Trail, the Glen Falls area for those willing to hike in, and several options along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Most sites are primitive without facilities, so come prepared for true backcountry camping with proper waste disposal equipment and water filtration systems.

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Nantahala National Forest?

Dispersed camping in Nantahala National Forest follows standard USFS regulations. Camping is free but limited to 14 consecutive days within a 30-day period. Camp at least 100 feet from water sources, trails, and developed recreation areas. FS 289 Pull Off and similar sites require pack-in, pack-out practices with no garbage services available. Campfires are permitted but should be kept small and completely extinguished; use existing fire rings when available. During high fire danger periods, fire restrictions may apply. Some areas like Glen Falls Backcountry Campground have specific guidelines about group size. Bear-proof food storage is mandatory throughout the forest. Vehicles must remain on designated roads and established sites, with no off-road driving or creating new campsites allowed. Always check current regulations at ranger stations.

Are there any roads in Nantahala National Forest that offer good access to dispersed camping?

Several key roads in Nantahala National Forest provide excellent access to dispersed camping. Wayah Road (SR 1310) is a primary route offering multiple pull-offs and forest service road connections leading to established camping spots near Wayah Bald. Highway 215 provides access to Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites, which features several secluded spots suitable for both tent and car camping. Forest Service Road 289 requires high-clearance vehicles but leads to peaceful streamside camping. For lake access, the roads around Lake Santeelah Dispersed offer well-maintained sites. Long Hungry Road provides access to lakeside camping options. Note that many forest service roads are unpaved and may become difficult during wet weather, so checking road conditions at ranger stations is advisable before venturing out.

Is there a map available for dispersed camping in Nantahala National Forest?

Yes, maps for dispersed camping in Nantahala National Forest are available through multiple sources. The USFS Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs) are essential as they show roads where dispersed camping is permitted. These are available for free at ranger district offices in Robbinsville, Franklin, and Murphy or as downloadable PDFs from the USFS website. For hikers, the Appalachian Trail maps include locations like Siler Bald Trail Shelter TR 373. The National Geographic Trails Illustrated maps (#785 and #784) provide detailed topographic information for dispersed camping areas. The Avenza Maps app also offers georeferenced forest maps for offline navigation. For specific areas like Black Balsam Knob, trailhead kiosks often display local camping information.