Route 197 Roadside Camp sits along a forest service road in the Cherokee National Forest, providing dispersed camping access for those comfortable with primitive conditions. This drive-in site operates under US Forest Service management, requiring campers to be self-sufficient with water, waste disposal, and other basic needs.
The roadside location means vehicle access remains straightforward, though amenities are nonexistent. Campers typically use this spot as a convenient overnight stop while exploring the broader camping areas around Pisgah National Forest or as a base for day hikes in the surrounding national forest lands. Check current forest service regulations before arriving, as dispersed camping rules can change seasonally.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingRoute 197 Roadside Camp is located in North Carolina
Coordinates
36.10725705 N
82.3547243 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 14 usersLast on 4/10/26- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 14 usersLast on 4/10/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Features
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Route 197 Roadside Camp needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 20 min from Johnson City, TN
- 1 hr 28 min from Asheville, NC
- 1 hr 36 min from Kingsport, TN
