Best Dispersed Camping near Winston-Salem, NC

Several forest roads around Winston Salem lead to dispersed camping spots where you'll need to bring everything with you. The nearest options lie in Uwharrie National Forest, about an hour east of town, with basic sites that require a 4x4 vehicle after rain. Pisgah National Forest, roughly two hours west, has more dispersed camping areas along gravel forest roads. When camping in these areas, you need to set up at least 200 feet from any water source and road. Most forest service lands around Winston Salem limit stays to 14 days. You won't find restrooms, trash cans, or water sources at these sites, so plan to pack out everything you bring in. The closest supplies are usually 30-45 minutes away in small towns bordering the forests. Summer thunderstorms can make forest roads muddy and difficult to navigate. Fire bans often take effect during dry periods from late summer through fall. The Hanging Rock and Pilot Mountain areas have no dispersed camping, so you'll need to stick to established campgrounds there.