Dispersed camping locations around Rutherfordton, North Carolina sit at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 4,500 feet, creating varied camping experiences depending on your chosen site. Winter temperatures in these areas can drop below freezing at night, even when daytime temperatures remain mild. Most rustic camping spots have no cell service and no water facilities, requiring campers to pack in all necessary supplies.
What to do
Trout fishing opportunities: The Upper Creek area in Pisgah National Forest features excellent fishing spots along a two-mile gravel road that parallels a river. "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," notes one Steele Creek visitor.
Hiking on nearby trails: The Linville Gorge Wilderness area offers trails with significant elevation changes. "We hiked down to the gorge and also enjoyed the dispersed camping available right along the riverside, which was pretty cool but... that hike back up is a DOOZY especially with a pack on. I would recommend it. The payoff of the views is highly worth any trail difficulties," reports a camper at Linville Gorge Wilderness.
Swimming in natural pools: Several camping areas offer access to natural swimming spots. "Great camping spot with access to the creek for swimming," notes a reviewer about Steele Creek, making it ideal for summer camping trips when temperatures climb into the 80s and 90s.
What campers like
Solitude on weekdays: Many campers note that visiting during weekdays provides a more isolated experience. "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," shares a camper at Upper Creek.
Free fire rings: Almost all dispersed sites in the area come with established fire rings. "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," notes one reviewer about the Steele Creek area.
Accessibility options: The area offers camping options for various vehicles and hiking abilities. "I drive a Toyota Camry that sits fairly low and I made it fine," says one Wash Creek camper about road conditions, though they caution about potential crime: "there are signs about being a high crime area and they are not kidding while I was out picking up a few things at ingles someone came by and took my tent and sleeping bag."
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Many access roads deteriorate after heavy rains. "The road got worse while I was there from the rain," reports a camper at Old NC 105 who gave the site 3 stars.
Water sources aren't always accessible: Water filtration can be challenging in some areas. "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," notes another Old NC 105 visitor.
Weekend crowding: Popular sites fill quickly Friday through Sunday. "I got here late, around 5 pm on Saturday, so I had difficulty finding a spot. There was lots of sites but they were all filled up," shares a Steele Creek camper.
Traffic can be disruptive: Some campsites sit close to forest roads with unexpected traffic. "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," reports a camper at Old NC 105.
Tips for camping with families
Look for creek-side sites: Areas near gentle water provide natural entertainment for children. "There's a stream that runs along the clearing, making some great natural white noise for sleeping," notes one reviewer about the creek at campsites.
Consider site locations carefully: Sites vary greatly in terms of privacy and spacing. "The sites are pretty spread out but there are a few within shouting distance (which could be annoying if the site next to you decides to bring a battery powered Sawzall to cut firewood at 2am)," warns a visitor to Old NC 105.
Pack extra water: With limited accessible water sources, families need more water than they might expect. "No camp sight that I could find had access to the river... make sure to bring plenty of bottled water," advises a camper.
Bring bug protection: Insects can be prevalent, especially near water sources. "I did get eaten alive by mosquitos and I found a tick on my chair so be on the lookout," cautions a Steele Creek visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. "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," notes a Victor Road camper.
RV-friendly locations: Victor Road has limited but possible RV camping. "Great place by Blue Ridge Pkwy. Not very far off Pkwy, we had no problem getting there with our Artic Fox truck camper and pulling a Jeep," shares one RVer.
Clearance considerations: Many forest roads have rough sections requiring careful navigation. "The road is initially pavement but quickly turns to packed gravel. The road is a little rough in spots, but I had zero issues in my Honda Accord," reports a Victor Road camper.
