Uwharrie National Forest dominates the dispersed camping near Salisbury, North Carolina, with over 50,000 acres of public lands accessible for primitive camping. The forest features rolling terrain with elevations typically between 500-900 feet, creating a moderate climate suitable for year-round camping opportunities. The area contains a network of small streams and creeks flowing through mixed hardwood forests, providing water sources for properly equipped backpackers.
What to do
Backpacking trails: The Uwharrie Trail offers approximately 20 miles of hiking through diverse forest terrain. "The Uwharrie Trail, which pretty much spans the park north/south is about 20 miles point to point. 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," notes Sean R. from Uwharrie National Forest.
Paddling access: Several rivers and streams provide water-based recreation opportunities. Visitors can access primitive camping sites via the Little River. "The area can be accessed by boat on the Little River, or by hiking in. Me and my friends would always float our kayaks down the river to a place we called 'Bird Dog' and camp for the night," shares a camper from Uwharrie.
Off-road vehicle trails: The forest contains designated OHV trail systems for properly equipped vehicles. "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," explains Erica from Robbins Branch Trail.
What campers like
Solitude opportunities: Many dispersed sites offer isolation from crowds. "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," reports Wyatt M.
Water proximity: Campsites near creeks provide both scenery and practical resources. "Along the Uwharrie trail. Water available on both sides of camp / trail," notes Wayne R. from Birkhead Mountain Wilderness Area Dispersed.
Trail accessibility: The network of maintained paths allows for various difficulty levels. "Very nice trails. Well maintained. Not marked the best... signs at intersections. Plenty of creeks. Hike in for dispersed camping," explains Rachael H.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Conditions can affect accessibility and site conditions. "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," cautions a backpacker about certain trail sections.
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed camping areas require appropriate transportation. "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 Zachary S. from Dispersed Camping off Falls Dam Trail.
Site maintenance: Campers should prepare to maintain their sites. "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," reminds Zachary S.
Hunting awareness: Seasonal hunting activity requires safety precautions in many areas of the forest during specific seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Water filtration: Families need appropriate water treatment methods. "The streams, provided one has filtration or iodine tablets, provide ample sources of drinking water," explains a backpacker about resource management in the wilderness.
Tent site selection: Finding appropriate spaces for family setups requires planning. "The tent sites nice and clean and level. The host drove through many many times in the 3 days I was there," notes Chris from Uwharrie National Forest.
Nature activities: The diverse environment provides educational opportunities. "Had a good time camping and enjoyed the song of wind and birds," shares Daniel R., highlighting the natural soundscape available to younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Generator use: RV campers have limited options for power sources. "We used our pop-up with a generator in rustic locations. There are hiking, horse, OHV, dirt bike, ATV, and mountain bike trails," explains Bart.
Site accessibility: Many primitive areas have limitations for larger vehicles. "This is not an RV camping area, at least not the dispersed camping area. You cannot drive up to the campsites. There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups," cautions Myron C., highlighting the limitations for RV camping in certain sections of the forest.
