Dispersed camping areas near Scottville, North Carolina offer primitive backcountry experiences in the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 5,000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Most rustic camping near Scottville requires self-sufficiency as sites typically lack amenities beyond established fire rings.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Steele Creek camping area provides excellent access to waterfall trails. "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 camper Kylie B. about Steele Creek.
Mountain biking: The region offers technical terrain for experienced riders. "The Virginia Creeper Trail and Appalachian Trail are just minutes away, as well as some easy whitewater paddling fun on the White Top Laurel Creek," mentions a camper at Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites.
Stargazing: Clear mountain nights reveal exceptional night skies. "The night sky was one of the most memorable moments from our trip. I've never seen so many stars!" writes Lindsay S. about camping on Mount Rogers.
Swimming: Creek access provides natural swimming opportunities. "There are numerous waterfalls to hike to, one of which is a short hike from the end of the road," shares Robin B. about Upper Creek.
What campers like
Creek sounds: Many campers appreciate falling asleep to flowing water. "We spent two nights here at a site right next to the creek, which was awesome listening to the running water as you fall asleep," writes Kyle C. about Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest.
Wildlife encounters: The chance to see native animals draws visitors. "Our favorite parts are the beautiful views, wild ponies, and it's (usually) relatively quiet!" writes Jay N. about Scales Trailhead Basecamp.
Elevated views: Higher elevation sites provide expansive vistas. "Watching the sunset was spectacular, then being able to star gaze," reports Harley G. about Whitetop Mountain. "Whitetop mountain has some of the best views in VA and is very popular for watching sunsets," adds Clayton S.
Solitude: Off-season camping offers complete privacy. "It was totally empty in March - we didn't see a single soul," notes Alexandra T. about camping in the Mount Rogers area.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many sites require navigating unpaved routes. "The road to this site is WILD, but doable! I'll leave photos of the worst spots to help you decide whether or not you should drive up to the top," warns Emerald M. about Whitetop.
High clearance needs: Some locations require appropriate vehicles. "The road in is....'rocky'. High clearance 4wd needed. Not ADV friendly, unless you're very adventurous," cautions Jon M. about Scales Trailhead Basecamp.
Weather preparedness: Wind exposure can create challenges. "THE WIND IS KILLER. We ended up moving our tent to the other side of the car park at the top," reports Whitney B. about Whitetop Mountain camping. Matthew C. adds, "The wind is killer. Very little Verizon and AT&T signal."
Cell service limitations: Most areas lack connectivity. "Absolutely no verizon service at the site," notes Sean about camping in Washington & Jefferson National Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Safety awareness: Be mindful of surroundings. "Be aware of your surroundings and always carry something on you to protect yourself!" advises Glennie V. about dispersed camping in the national forest.
Swimming holes: Kid-friendly water spots provide entertainment. "This is definitely the quietest, nicest, cleanest site yet! The creek is a great spot to swim," shares Kylie B. about Little Tumbling Creek.
Wildlife education: Prepare children for animal encounters. "Some had been camping there for 40yrs. The fire pits are well built and there is plenty of kindling and tinder to find right off the trails," notes Mateo M., adding "The salt lick for the ponies wasn't far" when describing camping at Scales Trailhead Basecamp.
Trash management: Pack out all waste and teach children proper disposal. "The only major problem is that folks tend to leave a ton of trash around, so we often spend about 20-30 minutes cleaning these sites upon arrival," observes a Washington & Jefferson National Forest camper.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle size restrictions: Most primitive sites accommodate small trailers 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," reports Michael W. about Steele Creek.
Pull-through options: Some sites offer easier access for small trailers. "It is a pull-thru so it would be convenient for trailers, too," notes Charles about a spot in Hidden Valley WMA.
Clearance considerations: Approach roads may present challenges. "Our short bus Skoolie had some troubles with it," mentions Zoey T. about the steep grade to Hidden Valley WMA. "The road wasn't bad. Definitely some rougher areas but my minivan did fine going slow," shares another camper.
