Dispersed camping near Landrum, South Carolina offers access to remote sites primarily in Pisgah National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 3,500 feet. Mountain temperatures typically run 10-15 degrees cooler than Landrum, with summer highs rarely exceeding 85°F. Forest roads connecting these sites often require careful navigation, especially after heavy rainfall when soft shoulders can be problematic.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 15-minute hike from Upper Cove Creek. This secluded camping area connects to trails leading to impressive waterfalls. "Beautiful waterfall (whaleback falls I think?) just a quick 15 minute walk across the river and up the trail (follow Daniel ridge trail loop from parking lot)... Big boulders to climb on at the base of the falls," explains a Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed camper.
High-elevation hiking: Black Balsam Knob. Camp under pines near the trailhead or hike 20-30 minutes to camp on the summit. "It's an easy 20-30min hike to the top of the mountain with tall grass and a wide open view to see the sunrise and sunset!" notes a Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping visitor. Be prepared for exposed conditions if summit camping.
Fishing: Victor Road creeks. Small mountain streams offer trout fishing opportunities within walking distance of several camping spots. "We stayed at the end where it separated to private drives. There was a fire pit and a trail that we didn't explore. Our 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee didn't take up much space," reports a Victor Road camper.
What campers like
Complete disconnection: Cell service is extremely limited at most dispersed sites. "Zero phone connection whatsoever (T Mobile 5g / LTE). Greater earth love connection a thousandfold," writes a Upper Cove Creek camper. Plan communications accordingly and download offline maps before arrival.
Mountain temperatures: Higher elevations provide natural cooling during summer months. "Gorgeous lush forest with ice-cold flowing stream (in May) immediately off most camp spots," describes a Mills River Dispersed visitor. These cold water sources provide natural relief during warmer months.
Sunrise viewing: Old NC 105 ridge sites. "If you take your time and they are available there are a few spots on both sides of the road with wonderful views," notes an Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping visitor. Many prime viewing sites are available on a first-come basis, typically filling by Friday afternoon during peak season.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Many forest roads deteriorate seasonally. "The dirt road to get there as well as the pull off for the campsite are rough and a bit dangerous for low/regular cars. It's doable but you should go very slow and watch out for giant holes and ridges. I bottomed out going into the parking space, and I lifted my Prius 1.5in," warns a Mills River camper.
Security considerations: Some areas experience theft issues. "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," cautions a Mills River camper. Valuables should never be left unattended.
Navigation challenges: GPS services often provide incorrect directions on forest roads. "Google maps incorrectly told me to take a right once I was on the dirt road that doesn't exist. Just ignore it and keep going forward," advises a Mills River visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Site privacy levels: Some areas provide better seclusion than others. "The sites are pretty spread out but there are a few within shouting distance (which could be annoying if the site next to you decides to bring a battery powered Sawzall to cut firewood at 2am)," notes an Wash Creek Dispersed Pull-Off camper.
Water source proximity: Sites with stream access provide practical advantages. "Although this is not an official camp site... There's a stream that runs along the clearing, making some great natural white noise for sleeping," reports a Wash Creek camper.
Bathroom planning: No facilities exist at dispersed sites. The nearest vault toilets are often at formal campgrounds or trailheads, requiring advance planning. "There are no RV sites, and you have to hike about a hundred yards or less to the sites, unless you camp on the bald...it is just a short walk to the pit toilet, which is also at the trailhead," explains a Black Balsam Knob camper.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate small trailers only. "Great place by Blue Ridge Pkwy. Not very far off Pkwy, we had no problem getting there with our Artic Fox truck camper and pulling a Jeep. Stayed next to a creek at the end," reports a Victor Road Dispersed camper.
Site selection for larger vehicles: Only certain pull-offs can accommodate RVs. "Great place for the night here. It's free, and it is close to great views of the mountains near the Blue Ridge Parkway," notes a Blue Ridge Roadside camper. Most suitable locations have been established through repeated use rather than formal designation.
