Top Free Dispersed Camping near Sapphire, NC

Looking for the best dispersed camping near Sapphire? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Sapphire, NC (43)

    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Valley Dispersed Camping

    1. Blue Valley Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    16 Photos
    156 Saves

    Dispersed camping in the Blue Valley area. Approximately 22 dispersed sites are available, and most have fire rings and picnic tables. A pit toilet is available. Please pack in and pack out. Wilson Lake is a short distance away offering fishing, swimming, a short trail, and wildlife viewing and birding.

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Firewood Available
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

    2. Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    2 Photos
    145 Saves

    Within the Pisgah Ranger District there are 65 disbursed roadside camping sites that are available on a first come - first serve basis. These campsites are located alongside gravel roads throughout the district and include a parking area, tent pad, and fire ring. Toilet facilities and drinking water are not available. Trash pick-up is not provided. Trash must be collected and disposed of properly. Failure to remove or properly dispose of trash is a crime and law enforcement officers will issue citations for littering if trash is strewn about or not properly disposed of. The following regulations must be adhered to and are strictly enforced by Law Enforcement Officers. • Roadside camping is allowed at designated campsites only. Signs designating a legal campsite show a camping_ symbol and a site number (for example "AC-3" for Avery Creek site 3). • The National Forests in North Carolina have a policy which allows for campers to occupy a roadside campsite for a maximum of 14 days out of a 30 day period. If a camper changes locations or moves to another campsite, it cannot be within 10 miles of previous site, the maximum stay limit of 14 days applies to all sites occupied. • All vehicles must be parked along road shoulders without blocking traffic. • Campfires are allowed only within the metal fire ring provided on the site, Building of additional fire rings is not allowed. AJJ camping equipment and tents must remain on the designated tent pad. • Collecting 'dead and downed' :firewood in the forest is permitted for camp fires. It is illegal to cut, chop, or saw live or standing trees or other live growth. Do not chop into or drive nails into live trees. • It is illegal to establish and set up a campsite for the purpose of reserving a camping place. The campsite must be occupied on the night it is set up by a minimum of one person. • It is illegal to leave a camp unattended for period of more than 24 hours. • It is illegal to fail to remove all camping equipment, personal property, trash, and refuse from a campsite when vacating or leaving that area or site. • It is mandatory that all human waste be buried at least 6 _inches deep and a minimum or 200 feet from a stream. trail, or campsite. • Alcoholic beverages are prohibited on Avery Creek Road (FSR 477) and Lickstone Road (FSR 97). Prohibition is 1000 feet to either side of the road, campsites, trails or roads leading off of either of the aforementioned. Warning: Unattended property and equipment in these areas can be an easy target for criminal activity. Protect your property by locking valuables out of site. Access to these campsites is easy by any vehicle. If you see anyone stealing anything from a roadside campsite or parking area near a public trailhead, picnic, or recreation area please call 911 to report it or call USPS Law Enforcement at the Pisgah District Ranger Station at 828-877-3265

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Mountain Rest Mountain Top
    Camper-submitted photo from Mountain Rest Mountain Top

    3. Mountain Rest Mountain Top

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    33 Saves

    Primitive campsites are available at Burrells Ford Campground and camping is allowed along the trail.

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b

    4. 475b

    2 Reviews
    8 Photos
    32 Saves

    Within the Pisgah Ranger District there are 65 disbursed roadside camping sites that are available on a first come - first serve basis.

    Toilet facilities and drinking water are not available. Trash pick-up is not provided. Trash must be collected and disposed of properly. Failure to remove or properly dispose of trash is a crime and law enforcement officers will issue citations for littering if trash is strewn about or not properly disposed of.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Glen Falls Backcountry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glen Falls Backcountry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glen Falls Backcountry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glen Falls Backcountry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glen Falls Backcountry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glen Falls Backcountry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whiterock Mountain Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Whiterock Mountain Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Whiterock Mountain Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Whiterock Mountain Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Whiterock Mountain Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Whiterock Mountain Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Beach Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Beach Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Sandy Beach Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Whiterock Gap Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Whiterock Gap Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Whiterock Gap Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Whiterock Gap Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Whiterock Gap Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Whiterock Gap Backcountry Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Soggy Boot Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Soggy Boot Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Soggy Boot Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Soggy Boot Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Soggy Boot Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Soggy Boot Campground

    9. Soggy Boot Campground

    5 Reviews
    19 Photos
    59 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Falls Creek
Showing results 1-10 of 43 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Sapphire

69 Reviews of 43 Sapphire Campgrounds


  • Darwin R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grave Gap Campsite
    Nov. 1, 2024

    Indian Grave Gap Campsite

    ADV Bike Motocamping

    If you’re anywhere near Helen, GA on an ADV Bike, this summit is for you. There are three routes up the mountain so you never have to double back. There are more primitive sites at the top of the mountain (not where the Dyrt pin was dropped) on both sides of the fork. Suitable for tents and hammocks. There is one site that would support a large group or even a camper (or two) if you can get them up the steep rocky hunting trail. Sites were mostly clean with rock fire pits.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Soggy Boot Campground
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Soggy Boot Campground

    good camp sites

    the directions get you to the general area fine. the campsites are hard to find in the dark - we ended up just stopping at the first clearing from a fork on the gravel road we saw to set up a tent. road is very bumpy, there’s a stream near some of the spots , we looked for a fire ring where we stopped in the morning and didn’t see one.

  • Gillian S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grave Gap Campsite
    Oct. 13, 2024

    Indian Grave Gap Campsite

    Good for Big Groups

    Three campsites in the immediate area. Two are on one side of the road. You have to cross thru one to get to the other. All three have creek access. We picked the single on the other side. Not a lot of flat ground options. Each site is huge. We decided to spread out but that meant having to do a lot of walking back and forth for stuff. You can pull your car into the site easily. It’s about a mile from the High Shoals Trailhead. Both waterfalls are lovely. One has a nice swimming hole. The closest town is Hiawasee. Had a grocery and an outfitters if you need supplies. There’s only two sit down restaurants—one had an hour wait; the other had run out of food.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping

    10/10

    I actually cannot stop thinking about my weekend camp here. So beautiful and lots of places to camp. Not a hard hike in either. A lot of day hikers through out the day. Lots of flies bc of dog poop but it’s worth it.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mountain Rest Mountain Top
    Aug. 12, 2024

    Mountain Rest Mountain Top

    Hilltop camping with hiking trails

    Great spot with room to turn around. Shaded and at trailhead of a trail down to creek and near a second trail to a waterfall. Had a few people during the day but evenings were totally quiet. A bit of extra vehicle clearance is helpful...slow and steady gets you to a great spot. No services here but good dispersed spot.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FS 289 Pull Off
    Jul. 3, 2024

    FS 289 Pull Off

    Good location

    Another review recommended an off-road vehicle or a jeep to get here. In dry conditions, I got here just fine in an Outback Wilderness, and 5 minutes later a Prius drove up. There’s a bit of trash but I’ve seen worse. Definitely bring bug repellent. The creek is only a few feet away from the campsite.

  • Dylan S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b
    Jun. 2, 2024

    475b

    Isolated spot for car camping or tent camping

    Road is a little rough but not terrible. 3-4 spots to park around this hairpin with 3 camping spots lotuses in the middle. Little runoff creates a creek that is nice to listen to but only deep enough to get feet in.

  • Forrest S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b
    May. 23, 2024

    475b

    Several walk up sites with easy access

    This is a great first-come-first-serve location with several sites.

  • Adam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mills River Dispersed
    Apr. 20, 2024

    Mills River Dispersed

    Theft

    They have a long term camper they refuse to run off and he will steal from you. Camp at your own risk, watch your stuff like a hawk. I'd really recommend Sunburst or Big Ivy instead of North Mills really.

  • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off
    Apr. 1, 2024

    Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off

    Great overnight stay near Blue Ridge Parkway

    Although this is not an official camp site, I arrived later than intended and with no other campsites open, I stayed the night here. There’s a stream that runs along the clearing, making some great natural white noise for sleeping. The forest road is very bumpy and narrow, but high clearance is not needed. Very low light pollution and the bare trees allowed for some great star gazing.

  • Jim M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FS 289 Pull Off
    Mar. 20, 2024

    FS 289 Pull Off

    Great dispersed site in the Pisgah NF

    Great Campsite along the Smoky Mountain 1000 Overland route. You need a good off road capable vehicle to access this site but it is very peaceful with a nice stream running by. Tent camping near the jeep or a high clearance overland teardrop should make it back here ok but not recommended for regular RV's.

  • H
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Site #2
    Mar. 10, 2024

    Wash Creek Dispersed Site #2

    Roomy spot in middle of nowhere

    It is a roomy site immediately off the road, a surprisingly well maintained gravel road. My class C had no problems making its way along and fitting in the roomy semicircle next to the tent and fire pit pad. There is a babbling brook next to the site for great ambience. 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. Also, be prepared to completely disconnect from civilization since you can't even make calls here. Beautiful site to relax!

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Falls Creek
    Nov. 16, 2023

    Falls Creek

    Nice secluded spot

    There is room for two vehicles and multiple tent spots. Very secluded and fairly level. Overall a great spot. If it had an epic view I would have it at 5 stars. River is about .6 mile hike away and the road is not bad getting in. Basically 2 track forest road.

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4 and #5
    Jul. 25, 2023

    Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4 and #5

    Great camping spot

    First the sight is beautiful and most have a beautiful trout stream close by when navigating if using Apple Maps pay attention to where it is routing you mine wanted me to walk through the woods for an hour to get here it’s easier to find if you navigate to north mill’s campground first second 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 that was inside I wouldn’t leave anything valuable to mark it as your sight and I have T mobile and I lost service about 10 mins from the campground and had no signal while staying there

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed
    Jul. 20, 2023

    Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

    Very Dispersed

    It was a great site, although there are only a few campsites on the road to it. We ended up driving to the top and someone already claimed it, so we had to go back down to a less convenient spot. The campsites are very secluded and quiet.

  • Dai C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed
    Jul. 1, 2023

    Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

    Gorgeous group camping area

    Beautiful free group camping area with large parkinglot. All dirt roads back here. 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). Not much free fall action for nature bathers, though there is enough water flow to lean in and get all that grease out of your hair! Big boulders to climb on at the base of the falls.. be careful as wet rocks are slippery. Serene and gorgeous forest all around you.

    Zero phone connection whatsoever (T Mobile 5g / LTE). Greater earth love connection a thousandfold. Highly recommend.

    <3

  • a
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed
    Jul. 1, 2023

    Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

    Roadish side/semi primitive

    I love Pigah. It doesn't seem to matter what season! With that said:

    • remote- you have to want to get up here but it's really easy to do once you drive it a few times.

    *clearly marked spots. I am actually located at ucc-2. ** The Dead End spot.

    *Creek is located very close nearby. But not on the clear spots for tents.

    *Not for big rigs, RVs, etc. It's a tent or as I use the tree tent.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Mills River Dispersed
    May. 5, 2023

    Mills River Dispersed

    Beautiful, mostly peaceful, inconvenient

    *this is just for the free campsites- there appears to be paid campsites and maybe RV hook ups very close by.

    Pros:

    1. Gorgeous lush forest
    2. ice-cold flowing stream (in May) immediately off most camp spots
    3. well maintained and leveled places to pitch a tent.
    4. except for occasional cars, very very peaceful and far from any urban life or freeway.

    Cons:

    1. No cell service (Verizon) without driving 10 minutes, and then patchy for another 10-15
    2. camp spots are mostly immediately off the road. It’s a very isolated place, so you have inconsistent privacy and peace and quiet.
    3. several cars drove by and woke me up after 11pm.
    4. the dirt road to get there as well as the pull off for the campsite are rough and a bit dangerous for low/regular cars. It’s doable but you should go very slow and watch out for giant holes and ridges. I bottomed out going into the parking space, and I lifted my Prius 1.5in

    TO NOTE: Google maps incorrectly told me to take a right once I was on the dirt road that doesn’t exist. Just ignore it and keep going forward.

    Explored up to campsite 4 the next day. Campsite 3 is a larger group site and a bit further off the road.

    It’s not true “dispersed” camping because they have designated site you are supposed to stay at. Im not sure how many there are, but I only got up to #4, driving about 5-10 min down the dirt road.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Soggy Boot Campground
    Mar. 15, 2023

    Soggy Boot Campground

    Beautiful clearing

    I went with my girlfriend and dog and had a blast. Is a little confusing to find but just when you question if you’re heading to the right place, you’re greeted with a fork and small trail down to a massive clearing. You could easily fit 8 cars around the area. There’s a very flat area, a fire pit, and creek surrounded by forest and mountains. Will definitely be coming back to this location.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping
    Feb. 17, 2023

    Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping

    The wind is no joke

    The sunset was breathtaking and the hike was very fun but if you are camping overnight, expect wind gusts that are capable of snapping tent poles. There is very little wind coverage at the top of the mountain.

  • Ethan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blackwell Bridge
    Jan. 21, 2023

    Blackwell Bridge

    Peaceful ish

    Couple things to know you don't need 4wd to get to the campsite. I do want to say though that the road down to the spot is a little wonky so be prepare for bumpy road. I will like to say there is a road literally 300 feet next to the campsite doesnt seem that busy but you might get a car once every 45 mins. Other wise the campsite is nice there was a good bit of trash thrown around. I tried cleaning up the best I can but be aware pls clean up after yourself. There are two campsite on opposite side of the road if the main one is taken. One of the nice things is if you have a tent you can get right next to the water definitely say beautiful area. Will go back.



Guide to Sapphire

Camping near Sapphire, North Carolina, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails around the area. Many campers rave about the nearby hikes, like the Art Loeb Trail, which offers breathtaking views. One reviewer mentioned, "Davidson River Campground is perfectly situated for outdoor activities, plenty of hiking... all within a stone's throw from camp."
  • Fishing: The local rivers and lakes are great for fishing. Campers have enjoyed catching fish while relaxing by the water. A visitor at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground noted, "There are plenty of small mouth bass to be claimed as well!"
  • Swimming: Many campgrounds have swimming holes or access to lakes. At Lake Powhatan, one camper shared, "The best thing about Lake Powhatan is the nice hike around the lake and the fun little lake beach."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities. A visitor at Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground said, "The comfort station was clean and well-appointed and there was never a wait for facilities."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many campgrounds offer a peaceful environment. One camper at Smokemont Campground mentioned, "It was rainy so maybe that deterred some campers, but we had a great time."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. A reviewer at Oconee State Park Campground noted, "The staff is so kind, and the garbage pick up twice a day is great!"

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at Cataloochee Campground advised, "There isn’t cell service, so be sure to plan your next move before you head in for the evening."
  • Crowded Sites: Some campgrounds can feel cramped. A visitor at Mount Pisgah Campground mentioned, "The only thing I didn't care for was how close the campsites are, virtually no privacy."
  • Bear Encounters: Wildlife is abundant, and bear sightings can happen. One camper at Lake Powhatan shared, "I did have a bear encounter on my way to the bathroom during the night, but we both just backed away slowly."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. A reviewer at Devils Fork State Park Campground said, "The lake was a short walk and absolutely stunning! Crystal clear water allowed us to look at the schools of fish swimming with us."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A camper at Table Rock State Park Campground mentioned, "Absolutely amazing hikes. Especially for kids."
  • Pack Essentials: Bring everything you need, as some campgrounds lack stores. A visitor at Lake Powhatan noted, "There is no camp store for extra supplies, but they do sell ice and plenty of firewood at the gate."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A reviewer at Tallulah Gorge State Park Campground mentioned, "It was tight backing in, I would say that out of the 'standard' sites... are the best sites available."
  • Be Prepared for Steep Roads: Some campgrounds have steep access roads. A camper at Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground advised, "A bigger RV may not be able to make the trip. Research the roads if you have a large camper."
  • Utilize Dump Stations: Familiarize yourself with dump station locations. A visitor at Oconee State Park Campground mentioned, "Dump stations were within walking distance, which was nice to be able to walk it down instead of putting it in your car for the night."

Camping near Sapphire, North Carolina, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Sapphire, NC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Sapphire, NC is Blue Valley Dispersed Camping with a 4-star rating from 8 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Sapphire, NC?

    TheDyrt.com has all 43 dispersed camping locations near Sapphire, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.