Uwharrie National Forest serves as the primary dispersed camping destination near Wingate, North Carolina, located roughly 30 miles east. The forest's diverse terrain ranges from 350 to 950 feet in elevation, featuring a mix of hardwood forests, pine stands, and numerous water features throughout the 50,000-acre protected area. Winter camping is particularly accessible here as the moderate elevation means trails and dispersed sites remain open year-round when western North Carolina mountains often experience closures.
What to do
OHV trail system: Uwharrie National Forest offers extensive off-highway vehicle trails for various skill levels. "We 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," reports a visitor to Uwharrie National Forest.
Deer hunting: The forest provides numerous hunting opportunities in designated areas during season. One camper notes, "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."
Kayaking: The Little River area provides excellent water access for paddlers seeking free camping near Wingate, North Carolina. A regular visitor explains, "Me and my friends would always float our kayaks down the river to a place we called 'Bird Dog' and camp for the night. If you are looking for a place that has very little traffic, this is the place you want to go!"
What campers like
Stream proximity: Many dispersed sites feature water access. A camper at Birkhead Mountain Wilderness Area Dispersed notes, "Very nice trails. Well maintained. Not marked the best... signs at intersections. Plenty of creeks. Hike in for dispersed camping."
Seclusion options: The expansive forest provides private camping spots away from crowds. One visitor mentions, "We stayed in 2 different dispersed primitive sites and they were both great. Plenty of space and trees and privacy!"
Water filtration opportunities: Natural water sources are abundant for those with proper filtration equipment. A backpacker explains, "The streams, provided one has filtration or iodine tablets, provide ample sources of drinking water."
What you should know
Hunting season awareness: Take safety precautions during hunting seasons, particularly in fall. "Make sure to wear bright colors during hunting season because there are a ton of people out deer hunting in this area," advises a visitor to Uwharrie National Forest.
Trail markings: Some paths have minimal signage at intersections. A hiker at Dispersed Camping off Falls Dam Trail reports, "Had a good time camping and enjoyed the song of wind and birds."
Overnight passes: Some areas require permits available from local vendors. "There are 6 different stores/gas stations that have the overnight passes available for purchase. We got our passes from Eldorado outpost and the attendants there were very knowledgeable and helpful!"
Weather considerations: Stream crossings can become difficult after rainfall. "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."
Tips for camping with families
Short hike options: Multiple access points allow for family-friendly camping experiences. A camper shares, "Along the Uwharrie trail. Water available on both sides of camp / trail."
Clean tent sites: Developed areas offer more amenities for family comfort. "The tent sites nice and clean and level. The host drove through many many times in the 3 days I was there. Bathrooms are what you can expect from a state park clean with little bugs here and there but nothing you can do about that in the middle of the woods."
Leave no trace practice: Set a good example by cleaning up 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," suggests a regular visitor to Uwharrie National Forest.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle requirements: Four-wheel drive vehicles have significant advantages for accessing dispersed camping areas. One RVer states, "This is a great area for dispersed campers with 4WD or AWD. It's pretty popular so head out early to secure your spot."
Pop-up camper options: Smaller, more maneuverable campers work well in less developed areas. A camper shares, "The State Forest has camping. We used our pop-up with a generator in rustic locations. There are hiking, horse, OHV, dirt bike, ATV, and mountain bike trails."
Fire pit availability: Most dispersed sites include basic fire rings. "Most sites have rock fire pits and room to set up. Love it here. Plenty of OHV trails as well."
