Top Free Dispersed Camping near Newland, NC
Planning a dispersed camping trip near Newland? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Newland's most popular destinations.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Newland, NC (21)
1. Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
12 Reviews•34 Photos•567 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
2. Victor Road Dispersed
8 Reviews•22 Photos•420 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
3. Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry
3 Reviews•21 Photos•93 SavesFor additional details: https://www.outdoorproject.com/united-states/tennessee/carvers-gap-grassy-ridge-bald
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
4. Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
12 Reviews•29 Photos•506 SavesThe Pisgah National Forest is a land of mile-high peaks, cascading waterfalls, and heavily forested slopes. Comprised of over 500,000 acres, the Pisgah is primarily a hardwood forest with whitewater rivers, waterfalls and hundreds of miles of trails. This national forest is home of the first tract of land purchased under the Weeks Act of 1911 which led to the creation of the national forests in the eastern United States. It is also home of the first school of forestry in the United States, now preserved at the Cradle of Forestry in America historic site, and boasts two of the first designated wilderness areas in the east. The Pisgah, Grandfather and Appalachian Ranger Districts are scattered along the eastern edge of the mountains of western North Carolina and offer visitors a variety of opportunities for outdoor recreation and enjoying the natural beauty of the mountains. Camping and Day-use Information Enjoy camping or a picnic at one of the many day-use areas. A list of camping and day-use areas in the Pisgah National Forest can be found here Recreation Maps Nantahala & Pisgah National Forest Maps Directions to Frequently Requested Places NC Arobretum and Bent Creek Area Blue Ridge Parkway South Blue Ridge Parkway North Pisgah Ranger District Cradle of Forestry Cradle of Forestry (Scenic Route) The Biltmore House Mt. Mitchell Be Safe The national forests in North Carolina offer a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. From the mountains to the sea, there are many exciting adventures awaiting your visit to these national forests. Please keep in mind that all outdoor recreational activities on the Croatan, Pisgah, Nantahala and Uwharrie national forests, including activities at recreation sites, have inherent risks due to the natural setting in which they occur. Always remember, your safety is your responsibility. Waterfall Safety for the Summer.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
5. Steele Creek
3 Reviews•37 Photos•77 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Drinking Water
6. Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC
3 Reviews•36 Photos•101 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
7. Old NC 105 Dispersed
3 Reviews•7 Photos•287 SavesDispersed campsites are primitive camping areas that don't have bathrooms or many of the other amenities you will find at developed campgrounds. Dispersed camping is only allowed at designated areas.
For site-specific information, call the local ranger station.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
8. National Forest Road/Steele Creek/Nates Place Dispersed Campsite
1 Review•8 Photos•25 SavesDispersed campsites are primitive camping areas that don't have bathrooms or many of the other amenities you will find at developed campgrounds. Dispersed camping is only allowed at designated areas.
For site-specific information, call the local ranger station.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
9. Old North Carolina 105 Road - Dispersed Spot
2 Reviews•5 Photos•20 SavesDispersed campsites are primitive camping areas that don't have bathrooms or many of the other amenities you will find at developed campgrounds. Dispersed camping is only allowed at designated areas.
For site-specific information, call the local ranger station.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
10. Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area
2 Reviews•9 Photos•61 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
Showing results 1-10 of 21 campgrounds
Recent Dispersed Reviews In Newland
78 Reviews of 21 Newland Campgrounds
- Harley G.
Guide
Whitetop
Absolutely stunning!
Absolutely stunning views! I was a little sketched out going up as it was my first time driving up a mountain like that, but it really wasn’t bad. Watching the sunset was spectacular, then being able to star gaze.
Jay N.
Scout
Scales Trailhead Basecamp
Isolated & wonderful!
We've been going to Scales for several years now, & it's one of the few places we keep revisiting! Yes, the road in is rocky (& not short...probly 45 mins from the road to the campground), but anything with Subaru Outback ground clearance will be fine.
The campground itself is great! It's right on the AT, so there are lots of through hikers that you'll see stop in for a night. That also means that there's lots of great hiking options! Our favorite parts are the beautiful views, wild ponies, & it's (usually) relatively quiet!
Additionally, there are a lot of fire pits& there are pit toilets.
- mmike R.
Traveler
Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
Stunning
It's beautiful up there although there's not many campsites. I stayed at the second one up the dirt road. It wasn't officially designated but it was used as a campsite. You'll need four wheel drive to get in and out of it though. The road is long but you'll see a bunch of cool waterfalls and at the end of the road there is a great hiking trail with a beautiful waterfall. The dirt road goes on for a long time but it's in good condition so keep driving and you'll find a spot. There's really only 4 viable spots on that road but man is it gorgeous. Go to ranger road and keep going up. Do not follow google maps it will take you to a private driveway where there's a sign saying "no camping, your app is wrong, turn around now".
Drew P.Scout
Old North Carolina 105 Road - Dispersed Spot
Very Shaded
Great place with lots of shade
- MMichael W.Scout
Steele Creek
Great for tent camping
Maybe I missed this in the reviews, but all but 1 site were best for tents. I drove in to camp in my car and there was only 1 spot, which is by the creek crossing, and it was already taken. There’s a nice big spot at the end of the trail where you could rooftop tent/car camp, but the actual site is about 100’ away. Road wasn’t too bad, only a spot or 2 on the switchback that were probably best for a 4 wheel drive vehicle, but I’m sure most cars would be fine.
Adam B.TravelerPisgah National Forest Dispersed
Love Big Ivy
Easy access to water. Not a lot of theft. People with aggressive dogs do come here and think it's okay to have them off a leash. But that's everywhere anymore. The area is beautiful and one of the better places I've stayed.
- Adam B.Traveler
Old North Carolina 105 Road - Dispersed Spot
Horrible
The camp site appears okay. Water sources are non-existent. Traffic was insane. Got attacked by someone's unrestrained dog, this is getting to be an issue everywhere it seems. Constant dust in the air from traffic. And my camp got raided by a thief. I just can't recommend the Gorge anymore, used to be one of my favorite places but it has taken a serious dive. Probably won't go back.
Jon M.ScoutScales Trailhead Basecamp
Serious off road capability needed
The road in is...."rocky". High clearance 4wd needed. Not ADV friendly, unless you're very adventurous. Access by horseback would be my #1 pick.
- BBrianna W.Traveler
National Forest Road/Steele Creek/Nates Place Dispersed Campsite
Best camping spot
We been going to this spot for years! Our friends introduced us to this area. We are naming after our late friend Nate. This place is spectacular, a lovely creek/river with swimming pools. Campfire rock rings. There’s probably about 10 spots. There’s a spot that outweighs the rest. Anywho, the terrain is definitely rough but cars, trucks and vans can get down there just not RVs. Know that there is no signal when you are out there.
Joe P.Scout
Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC
peaceful
very nice and beautiful camped right next to the upper creek. the state road was in good shape but steep narrow and lots of switch backs but well worth it
kylie B.GuideUpper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC
Party spot
The camp sites were good size but had trash and glass . Our site was fairly close to the road . Traffic wasn’t bad through the week but weekend it was busy . The next site up had over 25 cars and they were partying pretty loud . Fortunately they did quiet down at a decent time . The road in was a bit bumpy but nothing too serious . My car made it in fine
- kylie B.Guide
Steele Creek
Quiet creek spot
This is my favorite spot in the pisgah national forest . I have stayed at all the free campsites around and left my review for each. This is by far the quietest, nicest, cleanest , site yet ! There are plenty of sites to pick from all along the creek , all of which appear to be well maintained , each with a fire ring . The road is pretty well maintained other than a few spots that you have to crawl through on the corners specifically. I drive a Toyota Camry that sits fairly low and I made it fine . My favorite part is definitely The creek , it is a great spot to swim so we are excited about that . There is a walking trail at the end of the road about 100 feet from our site , that had the best swimming hole at the end of it , where you can jump in. It has a couple small waterfalls to add to the ambience. The site is very clean other than some glass that I’ve been picking up . Definitely highly recommend these camp sites out of any others in the pisgah national forest! this area is beautiful and pure peace compared to the others in the area !
Kenny L.ScoutSteele Creek
Love this place
Great camping spot with access to the creek for swimming
Glennie V.Scout
Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites
Be Aware Of Your Surroundings
First time trying dispersed-camping and was super excited originally! We followed the coordinations and pulled into an off-road spot. Initially we felt pretty comfortable riding through the national park. However when we arrived to the site there was someone already there. We didn't think much at first, until we realized what they were doing in their car: It was a man and female. They appeared to be smoking meth and had a distinctive smell coming from their truck. They were making incoherent noises and could barely hold their heads up. They then pulled out a gun and started shooting at the signs near the road. Needless to say we quickly packed our gear and left. It was definitely scary and not the best encounter for first time dispersed camping. Thankfully I was with my partner and felt safe with him. If I was alone, I'm unsure how safe I would've felt, as a traveling/camping solo-female. We were able to find another dispersed campground down the road about 15-20 mins alongside the road. We also saw more people car-camping and doing the same: so overall we felt better about the situation. However, I'm not sure if I'd recommend this spot or go back again: Be aware of your surroundings and always carry something on you to protect yourself!
Samuel S.Scout
Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping
Camping
It was a lot of fun and beautiful scenery
- BBrianGuide
Old NC 105 Dispersed
2024 check in
The past reviews are dead on for all aspects and road conditions.
- RRobin B.Guide
Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC
Free in the woods on a creek
This is one of many forest roads in this area with free camping. I went during the week and had the entire area to myself. The ground wood for campfires is very abundant and many of the sites are appropriate for groups. There are numerous waterfalls to hike to, one of which is a short hike from the end of the end of the road.
- IIsabel B.Scout
Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
Beautiful but impossible to find
We drove for what felt like forever at the Big Ivy Trailhead and only ever found one labeled campsite. We gave up and camped in an unofficial spot.
It was gorgeous! But there’s not much there and the drive is long.
- DDavid P.Traveler
Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping
Beautiful views
If you take your time and they are available there are a few spots on both sides of the road with wonderful views the begging of the road from either side is easy enough to get down but in the middle it gets really rough would not recommend driving all the way through with out an SUV or better clearance and 4 wheel drive the road got worse while I was there from the rain biggest con for me is I use a pump filter to fill up water no camp sight that I could find had access to the river that runs along this road so make sure to bring plenty of bottled water and the road has a lot of traffic at-least one person a day has stopped to ask me questions while I was laying in my hammock
- Sara S.Traveler
Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
Breath Taking views
The road up to the campsites is pretty steep and bumpy. Wouldn't recommend a car but saw several go through. There are a handful of sites on either side of the road. Some have steep drop offs off the side of the mountain so be careful. A few group sized sites with misc trails to wonder. Very quiet and serene but only 30 minutes from town.
Sagar B.ScoutWashington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites
Good safe spot
Right next to the road, so first time campers would feel safe. The creek’s sound is pleasant. No network at all.
- Katie A.Traveler
Old NC 105 Dispersed
Easy drive, great views
Coordinates are accurate to get you to this gravel road along a ridge top. Easy pull-in spots for cars and vans next to the road, several with great views of the valley and gorge. Most have primitive fire rings. Great cell service. Only downsides are good view sites right on the road, and hard to find level ground. Popular spot for vans.
Arthur D.ScoutLinville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
Good rest
Very primitive but a great and free place to get some dark pea e and quiet
- JJohn R.Guide
Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
Easy
It was very easy to get a spot but there weren’t great views and there is not much to do
Andy K.
LegendOld NC 105 Dispersed
Free camping with great views
Old NC 105 is a dirt road which goes on for miles with views both sides. Camping spots are available all along the road some with better views than others. Some spots are very shaded deep into the trees while others afford superb views of the gorge and distant Lake James.
- Andy K.Legend
Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping
Fantastic views well worth the drive
Found a great spot a few miles up the rutted road, with superb views over the gorge. Camped right at the side of the road.
Filip M.ScoutOld NC 105 - Dispersed Camping
Great Dispersed Camping
Relatively easy gravel road with sites along either side. Some sites are better than others and offer good views of the surrounding mountains down to lake James. Don’t expect much in the way of accommodations so come prepared, and be aware that most spots are not level, so bring leveling blocks if you are planning on sleeping in your vehicle.
Guide to Newland
Camping near Newland, North Carolina, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.
What to do:
- Hiking: Explore the trails around Stone Mountain State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The hiking is excellent. The campsites are large and spacious."
- Biking: Enjoy the biking trails at Lake Powhatan — National Forests In North Carolina. A visitor noted, "Plenty of people also seem to enjoy the biking, but it’s a bit uphill for me."
- Fishing and Water Activities: The Hot Springs Campground is right on the French Broad River, perfect for tubing and kayaking. One reviewer said, "The campground sits right on the French Broad river which is beautiful and wide."
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Hickory Ridge Campground remarked, "The bathroom facilities were very clean (heated, showers, flushable toilets)."
- Friendly Staff: Many campers have praised the helpfulness of the staff. One camper at Bear Den Family Campground and Cabins said, "The staff are super friendly and helpful."
- Spacious Campsites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at Roan Mountain State Park Campground. A reviewer mentioned, "Sites are well maintained and flat on the lower section."
What you should know:
- Crowded Weekends: Many campgrounds can get busy on weekends. A visitor at Hot Springs Campground noted, "It was comfortable during the weekdays, but started to get crowded during the weekend."
- Limited Cell Service: Expect poor cell reception in some areas. One camper at Lake Powhatan mentioned, "We had very little cell service (Verizon)."
- No Camp Store: Some campgrounds, like Stone Mountain State Park Campground, do not have a camp store for extra supplies. A camper noted, "There is no camp store for extra supplies."
Tips for camping with families:
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. At Asheville East KOA, one parent said, "There is a pool, playground, gaga ball pit, and themed activities on weekends."
- Choose Spacious Sites: Opt for campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A camper at Bear Den Family Campground mentioned, "Big private sites, lots of activities for teens."
- Plan for Bathroom Access: Make sure to choose a site close to bathroom facilities. A visitor at Hungry Mother State Park noted, "The bathhouse is nice and has been renovated in the last few years."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Size: RVers should verify the size of the sites before booking. One camper at Asheville East KOA said, "Section A was extremely tight for navigating, parking, and camping."
- Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds are near train tracks or busy roads. A visitor at Hot Springs Campground mentioned, "Trains come through near the park at all hours of the day and night."
- Utilize Dump Stations: Make sure to use the sanitary dump stations available at campgrounds like Hickory Ridge Campground for convenience.
Camping near Newland, North Carolina, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're hiking, biking, or just relaxing by the river, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Newland, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Newland, NC is Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he with a 4.2-star rating from 12 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Newland, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 21 dispersed camping locations near Newland, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.