Top Free Dispersed Camping near Swannanoa, NC

Looking for dispersed camping near Swannanoa? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Swannanoa just for you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Swannanoa, NC (31)

    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed

    1. Pisgah National Forest Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    29 Photos
    506 Saves

    The Pisgah National Forest is a land of mile-high peaks, cascading waterfalls, and heavily forested slopes. Comprised of over 500,000 acres, the Pisgah is primarily a hardwood forest with whitewater rivers, waterfalls and hundreds of miles of trails. This national forest is home of the first tract of land purchased under the Weeks Act of 1911 which led to the creation of the national forests in the eastern United States. It is also home of the first school of forestry in the United States, now preserved at the Cradle of Forestry in America historic site, and boasts two of the first designated wilderness areas in the east. The Pisgah, Grandfather and Appalachian Ranger Districts are scattered along the eastern edge of the mountains of western North Carolina and offer visitors a variety of opportunities for outdoor recreation and enjoying the natural beauty of the mountains. Camping and Day-use Information Enjoy camping or a picnic at one of the many day-use areas. A list of camping and day-use areas in the Pisgah National Forest can be found here Recreation Maps Nantahala & Pisgah National Forest Maps Directions to Frequently Requested Places NC Arobretum and Bent Creek Area Blue Ridge Parkway South Blue Ridge Parkway North Pisgah Ranger District Cradle of Forestry Cradle of Forestry (Scenic Route) The Biltmore House Mt. Mitchell Be Safe The national forests in North Carolina offer a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. From the mountains to the sea, there are many exciting adventures awaiting your visit to these national forests. Please keep in mind that all outdoor recreational activities on the Croatan, Pisgah, Nantahala and Uwharrie national forests, including activities at recreation sites, have inherent risks due to the natural setting in which they occur. Always remember, your safety is your responsibility. Waterfall Safety for the Summer.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Victor Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Victor Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Victor Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Victor Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Victor Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Victor Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
    Camper-submitted photo from Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
    Camper-submitted photo from Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
    Camper-submitted photo from Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
    Camper-submitted photo from Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
    Camper-submitted photo from Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4 and #5
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4 and #5
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4 and #5
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off
    Camper-submitted photo from Henderson Reservoir Dispersed Site #1
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Site #2
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Site #2
    Camper-submitted photo from Wash Creek Dispersed Site #2

    7. Wash Creek Dispersed Site #2

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    34 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

    8. 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 475b
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b
    Camper-submitted photo from 475b

    9. 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 Old NC 105 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Old NC 105 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Old NC 105 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Old NC 105 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Old NC 105 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Old NC 105 Dispersed

    10. Old NC 105 Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    7 Photos
    287 Saves

    Dispersed campsites are primitive camping areas that don't have bathrooms or many of the other amenities you will find at developed campgrounds. Dispersed camping is only allowed at designated areas.

    For site-specific information, call the local ranger station.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
Showing results 1-10 of 31 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Swannanoa

96 Reviews of 31 Swannanoa Campgrounds


  • m
    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
    Aug. 19, 2024

    Pisgah National Forest Dispersed

    Stunning

    It's beautiful up there although there's not many campsites. I stayed at the second one up the dirt road. It wasn't officially designated but it was used as a campsite. You'll need four wheel drive to get in and out of it though. The road is long but you'll see a bunch of cool waterfalls and at the end of the road there is a great hiking trail with a beautiful waterfall. The dirt road goes on for a long time but it's in good condition so keep driving and you'll find a spot. There's really only 4 viable spots on that road but man is it gorgeous. Go to ranger road and keep going up. Do not follow google maps it will take you to a private driveway where there's a sign saying "no camping, your app is wrong, turn around now".

  • 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.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Steele Creek
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Steele Creek

    Great for tent camping

    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, and it was already taken. There’s a nice big spot at the end of the trail where you could rooftop tent/car camp, but the actual site is about 100’ away. Road wasn’t too bad, only a spot or 2 on the switchback that were probably best for a 4 wheel drive vehicle, but I’m sure most cars would be fine.

  • Adam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Pisgah National Forest Dispersed

    Love Big Ivy

    Easy access to water. Not a lot of theft. People with aggressive dogs do come here and think it's okay to have them off a leash. But that's everywhere anymore. The area is beautiful and one of the better places I've stayed.

  • Adam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old North Carolina 105 Road - Dispersed Spot
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Old North Carolina 105 Road - Dispersed Spot

    Horrible

    The camp site appears okay. Water sources are non-existent. Traffic was insane. Got attacked by someone's unrestrained dog, this is getting to be an issue everywhere it seems. Constant dust in the air from traffic. And my camp got raided by a thief. I just can't recommend the Gorge anymore, used to be one of my favorite places but it has taken a serious dive. Probably won't go back.

  • 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.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from National Forest Road/Steele Creek/Nates Place Dispersed Campsite
    May. 19, 2024

    National Forest Road/Steele Creek/Nates Place Dispersed Campsite

    Best camping spot

    We been going to this spot for years! Our friends introduced us to this area. We are naming after our late friend Nate. This place is spectacular, a lovely creek/river with swimming pools. Campfire rock rings. There’s probably about 10 spots. There’s a spot that outweighs the rest. Anywho, the terrain is definitely rough but cars, trucks and vans can get down there just not RVs. Know that there is no signal when you are out there.

  • 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.

  • kylie B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC
    Apr. 18, 2024

    Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC

    Party spot

    The camp sites were good size but had trash and glass . Our site was fairly close to the road . Traffic wasn’t bad through the week but weekend it was busy . The next site up had over 25 cars and they were partying pretty loud . Fortunately they did quiet down at a decent time . The road in was a bit bumpy but nothing too serious . My car made it in fine

  • kylie B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Steele Creek
    Apr. 18, 2024

    Steele Creek

    Quiet creek spot

    This is my favorite spot in the pisgah national forest . I have stayed at all the free campsites around and left my review for each. This is by far the quietest, nicest, cleanest , site yet ! 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 . The road is pretty well maintained other than a few spots that you have to crawl through on the corners specifically. I drive a Toyota Camry that sits fairly low and I made it fine . My favorite part is definitely The creek , it is a great spot to swim so we are excited about that . 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. The site is very clean other than some glass that I’ve been picking up . Definitely highly recommend these camp sites out of any others in the pisgah national forest! this area is beautiful and pure peace compared to the others in the area !

  • 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.

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    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!

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paint Creek Corridor
    Mar. 4, 2024

    Paint Creek Corridor

    Paint Creek Dispersed Camping

    The national forest service website says there are dispersed camping site throughout the corridor; however, I was only able to locate one and luckily it was vacant. There are several spots along the road that may have been for dispersed camping as some point but are now clearly marked with no camping signs. I did enjoy my stay here but I’m a little disappointed in the website saying there were multiple sites … i has to drive almost 4 hours to get there and would have been super disappointed if I arrived to no spots. Also a lot of trash in the area of the site sadly.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC
    Feb. 28, 2024

    Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC

    Free in the woods on a creek

    This is one of many forest roads in this area with free camping. 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. There are numerous waterfalls to hike to, one of which is a short hike from the end of the end of the road.

  • I
    Camper-submitted photo from Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
    Oct. 22, 2023

    Pisgah National Forest Dispersed

    Beautiful but impossible to find

    We drove for what felt like forever at the Big Ivy Trailhead and only ever found one labeled campsite. We gave up and camped in an unofficial spot.

    It was gorgeous! But there’s not much there and the drive is long.

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 27, 2023

    Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful views

    If you take your time and they are available there are a few spots on both sides of the road with wonderful views the begging of the road from either side is easy enough to get down but in the middle it gets really rough would not recommend driving all the way through with out an SUV or better clearance and 4 wheel drive the road got worse while I was there from the rain 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 and 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

  • 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



Guide to Swannanoa

Camping near Swannanoa, North Carolina, offers a fantastic mix of outdoor adventures and serene nature experiences. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your next getaway.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around the area. Many campers enjoy the nearby hikes, with one reviewer from Davidson River Campground mentioning, "Hiked the North Slope nearly 4 miles wore out the dogs perfectly!"
  • Fishing: The local rivers and lakes are great for fishing. A visitor at Greenbrier Campground noted, "There are plenty of small mouth bass to be claimed as well!"
  • Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing dip in the water. Campers at Lake Powhatan appreciated the "fun little lake beach" that’s perfect for kids.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Many campers rave about the cleanliness of the campgrounds. One reviewer at Bear Den Family Campground said, "Bathrooms are clean and there is a laundry."
  • Quiet atmosphere: Campers often enjoy the peaceful surroundings. A visitor at Smokemont Campground shared, "It was rainy so maybe that deterred some campers, but we had a great time."
  • Friendly staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. A reviewer at Greenbrier Campground mentioned, "The staff was very nice."

What you should know:

  • Limited cell service: Be prepared for spotty cell reception. A camper at Cosby Campground noted, "No cell or TV service here."
  • Crowded sites: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Julian Price Park Campground mentioned, "The campground is conveniently located near Blowing Rock and other sights on the Parkway."
  • No showers at some sites: Certain campgrounds, like Smokemont Campground, do not have shower facilities, so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for kids: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly amenities. A reviewer at Greenbrier Campground said, "Great individual bathroom/shower, activities, a store and free Trolley rides into Gatlinburg."
  • Safety first: Always keep an eye on kids near water. A camper at Lake Powhatan mentioned, "The lake was close enough for my 7 & 8 year olds to bike."
  • Pack snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep everyone happy during hikes. A visitor at Davidson River Campground appreciated the nearby coffee truck, saying, "It was great to have the coffee truck 5 mins away outside the campground."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Asheville East KOA noted, "The sites are extremely tight for navigating, parking, and camping."
  • Be prepared for noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads or train tracks. A visitor at Asheville East KOA mentioned, "Trains come through near the park at all hours of the day and night."
  • Bring extra supplies: Some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A camper at Lake Powhatan pointed out, "There is no camp store for extra supplies."

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Swannanoa, NC is Pisgah National Forest Dispersed with a 4.6-star rating from 12 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 31 dispersed camping locations near Swannanoa, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.