Dispersed camping near Richfield, North Carolina centers around the Uwharrie National Forest, where the ancient mountain range rises only about 700 feet above sea level. This lower elevation makes the region accessible for camping during winter months when higher mountains in western North Carolina become impassable. Forest roads throughout the area can become extremely muddy following rain, requiring appropriate vehicle capabilities and preparation for changing conditions.
What to do
Hunting opportunities: The western forest areas southwest of Troy provide secluded hunting spots with minimal crowds. According to one visitor at Uwharrie National Forest, "This area was a place that I went often to deer hunt in the fall. I have never came across another camper/hunter at this location. It is a good location if you are looking for an area that is away from camp grounds and heavy traffic."
Water activities: The Little River provides kayaking and canoeing access to remote camping areas. "We would always float our kayaks down the river to a place we called 'Bird Dog' and camp for the night," notes a camper. The river can be accessed via the boat ramp where Pekin Road crosses the water.
Trail hiking: The 20-mile Uwharrie Trail spans the forest north to south, offering multiple backcountry campsites. A visitor at Birkhead Mountain Wilderness Area Dispersed reports: "Very nice trails. Well maintained. Not marked the best... signs at intersections. Plenty of creeks. Hike in for dispersed camping."
Off-road vehicle trails: The national forest includes designated OHV trails for Jeeps and other off-road vehicles. Passes are required and available at several local stores. One visitor commented, "We also took our Jeep on the OHV trails and had a blast. There are several places you can take a canoe or kayak on and the scenery on the lake was beautiful as well."
What campers like
Stream access: Many dispersed sites feature convenient water sources for filtering. At one site along the Uwharrie Trail, a camper noted, "Water available on both sides of camp / trail," making it ideal for those planning to filter water during their stay.
Privacy levels: The Little River area receives minimal visitor traffic compared to other sections of the forest. "If you are looking for a place that has very little traffic, this is the place you want to go!" explains a camper at Dispersed Camping off Falls Dam Trail, who also mentioned enjoying "the song of wind and birds" during their stay.
Wildlife viewing: Despite relatively lower elevations compared to western North Carolina mountains, the forest provides habitat for deer and other wildlife. Campers report regular wildlife sightings, though one hunter mentioned, "I never shot a deer here but they are in the area."
Year-round accessibility: Unlike higher elevation wilderness areas, Uwharrie remains accessible throughout winter. One backpacker explained, "As much of the higher elevations are impassable during the winter months, the forest offers backpackers an opportunity to stay on the trail a few days."
What you should know
Safety during hunting seasons: Wear high-visibility clothing during hunting seasons due to heavy hunting activity. A visitor at Robbins Branch Trail cautions, "Make sure to wear bright colors during hunting season because there are a ton of people out deer hunting in this area."
Vehicle requirements: Most dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles for access. "This is a great area for dispersed campers with 4WD or AWD. It's pretty popular so head out early to secure your spot," advises one camper. Rain can significantly impact road conditions.
Trail navigation challenges: Some trails have minimal markings at intersections. A backpacker reports, "The trailhead is kind of hard to follow sometimes, sections of the trail are prone to flooding and creek crossings can become difficult following heavy rains."
Water filtration needs: No potable water exists at dispersed sites. One camper explains, "Obviously, there are no facilities, so I had to take my own water and a water filter. Since I was close to a stream, I had to take care of personal business about two hundred feet farther away."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection timing: Arrive early to secure preferred camping spots, especially during weekends and busy seasons. "It's pretty popular so head out early to secure your spot," advises a regular visitor.
Pack-in, pack-out ethics: Some sites have accumulated trash from previous users. One camper notes, "Some of the sites may have a little trash left from the last user, so please try to leave it cleaner than you came to."
Noise considerations: Highway noise carries to some campsites near major roads. A solo camper at Uwharrie National Forest advises, "Unfortunately, it wasn't far enough away to hear distant noises from Hwy 24, so if you want to get away from traffic noise completely, hike farther in."
Multiple recreation options: The forest offers varied activities beyond just camping. "There are hiking, horse, OHV, dirt bike, ATV, and mountain bike trails," explains one visitor, providing options for families with different outdoor interests.
Tips from RVers
Generator usage: Some dispersed areas accommodate small RVs with generators. "We used our pop-up with a generator in rustic locations," reports one RVer about their camping experience.
Site limitations: Prepare for primitive conditions with no hookups. "The tent sites nice and clean and level. The host drove through many many times in the 3 days I was there," notes a camper about the managed areas that can accommodate smaller RVs.
Air compressor access: The Eldorado Outpost store offers an air compressor for reinflating tires after off-roading. One visitor explains, "There's a store/gas station (Eldorado Outpost) right down the road and they also have an air compressor for inflating tires (which is handy for off-roading)."
