Best Dispersed Camping near Pisgah National Forest
Pisgah National Forest offers numerous dispersed camping opportunities throughout its expansive wilderness. Sites are primarily primitive with no amenities or facilities. Popular areas include Old NC 105, Victor Road, Steele Creek, and Linville Gorge Wilderness. Most sites feature established fire rings and are located along forest service roads. According to reviews, many campsites sit alongside creeks or streams, providing natural white noise and water for filtering. The Black Balsam area near Sam Knob trailhead has designated sites about 100 yards from parking, though campers report difficulty finding level spots without roots.
Vehicle access varies significantly between locations. Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles, though passenger cars can reach some areas with careful driving. Several campers noted that GPS directions are frequently unreliable, often routing through private property. The Victor Road sites, approximately 2 miles north of Highway 80 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, feature a gravel road that becomes progressively rougher. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most sites, with the exception of Old NC 105, where some visitors report good coverage.
Weather conditions demand preparation, particularly at higher elevations where temperatures drop significantly at night, even in summer. Campers should bring appropriate sleeping gear rated for colder temperatures than expected. No drinking water is available at dispersed sites; visitors must bring their own or filter from streams. Fires are generally permitted in established rings, but regulations can change seasonally. The Leave No Trace ethic is essential, as some areas have experienced trash accumulation. Campers should secure valuables, as theft has been reported at certain locations. Most sites accommodate tents only, with limited options for car camping or small trailers.
