Dispersed camping areas in North Carolina's Pisgah National Forest range from 2,000 to 6,000 feet elevation across diverse terrain including hardwood forests and mountain balds. Summer temperatures at higher elevations can drop into the 40s overnight even when lower elevations remain warm. Most dispersed sites are located within hiking distance of freshwater sources, though water treatment is necessary.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Several trailheads near Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed offer access to waterfall hikes. "Beautiful waterfall (whaleback falls I think?) just a quick 15 minute walk across the river and up the trail (follow Daniel ridge trail loop from parking lot)," writes one visitor. The same reviewer mentions there's "enough water flow to lean in and get all that grease out of your hair!"
Star gazing: At Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping, the high elevation provides exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. "Low light pollution and the bare trees allowed for some great star gazing," notes one camper who stayed at a nearby area. Be prepared for challenging weather conditions, as "wind gusts are capable of snapping tent poles" at exposed high-elevation sites.
Sunrise viewing: For early risers, mountain top camping provides spectacular dawn experiences. "If you want to wake up to the most beautiful sunrise, the best view, and feel physically closer to God than you ever have, it's worth all of it," explains one camper about the Black Balsam area. Most mountaintop viewpoints require a 20-30 minute hike from parking areas.
What campers like
Stream-side sites: Many campers value having water access directly from their campsite. At Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off, one visitor appreciated that "there's a stream that runs along the clearing, making some great natural white noise for sleeping." Another camper at a different site mentioned "a babbling brook next to the site for great ambience."
Secluded locations: The remoteness of these dispersed sites is a major draw. A camper at Upper Cove Creek - UCC2 Dispersed explained its appeal simply: "remote- you have to want to get up here but it's really easy to do once you drive it a few times." Similarly, a visitor to another area noted that the "campsites are very secluded and quiet."
Level tent sites: Several camping areas feature well-established tent pads. A camper at 475b found "3-4 spots to park around this hairpin with 3 camping spots lotuses in the middle." At Henderson Reservoir, a reviewer noted the site was "clean and large" with a "creek below" for water access.
What you should know
Road conditions can be challenging: Many forest service roads require careful navigation. As one visitor to Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4 and #5 noted, "Zero signal, but can drive to the top of the road and you should get a bar to make a call." For larger vehicles, a camper in a 30' class C motorhome reported they "had no problems making its way along and fitting in the roomy semicircle" at Wash Creek Dispersed Site #2.
Weather preparedness: Mountain conditions change rapidly. "Expect wind gusts that are capable of snapping tent poles. There is very little wind coverage at the top of the mountain," cautions a Black Balsam visitor. Rain can also create drainage issues, with one camper warning, "My mistake was not paying attention to where the runoff was. This morning I had a small stream running through my camp."
Security concerns: Theft has been reported at some locations. One camper at Pisgah National Forest Dispersed sites mentioned that "not a lot of theft" occurs at their chosen spot. However, at Mills River Dispersed, a reviewer warned about a "long term camper they refuse to run off and he will steal from you," recommending visitors "watch your stuff like a hawk."
Tips for camping with families
Finding cell service: Complete disconnection is common in these remote areas. A family camping at Mills River Dispersed noted: "No cell service (Verizon) without driving 10 minutes, and then patchy for another 10-15." Plan accordingly with offline maps and emergency contingencies.
Kid-friendly sites: Some dispersed areas work well for children. A family at Wash Creek mentioned, "We enjoyed the night/day with our kids! Sites are kind of small but absolutely beautiful surroundings." Look for sites with safe water access where children can explore while remaining visible to adults.
Day trip planning: With limited amenities at dispersed sites, plan day excursions. One camper suggested "checking out skinny dipping falls it is about 5 miles away and about a mile round trip. Lots of fun and cool rocks to climb on." Research nearby attractions before arriving since information may be unavailable without cell service.
Tips from RVers
Parking logistics: For smaller RVs and trailers, several dispersed sites offer adequate pull-offs. At Pisgah National Forest Dispersed, one camper noted there are "several dispersed camping sites where you can easily park a vehicle." At Wash Creek Dispersed Site #2, a class C owner reported: "We were able to fit our 30ft motorhome and car into the site with no problem. But avoid blocking the emergency access road to the side."
Leveling considerations: Unimproved sites may require significant leveling. "It was pretty level, had a nice fire pit," noted one RVer at a Pisgah site, though they cautioned about drainage issues during rain. Small trailers and vans have more options than larger rigs throughout these forests.
Resource management: With no hookups available, resource conservation is essential. "Be prepared to completely disconnect from civilization since you can't even make calls here," advised one RVer. Plan for limited water supplies and bring adequate power sources for essential needs.
