Best Dispersed Camping near Pickens, SC

Pickens is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Pickens is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Pickens, South Carolina (36)

    1. Mountain Rest Mountain Top

    3 Reviews
    Tamassee, SC
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 638-5353

    "We arrived pretty late, close to midnight after hitting a lot of traffic traveling from Fl."

    "Great spot with room to turn around. Shaded and at trailhead of a trail down to creek and near a second trail to a waterfall. Had a few people during the day but evenings were totally quiet."

    2. Blue Valley Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Highlands, NC
    30 miles
    Website

    "Location is actually about 1.5. Miles further than shown on map. Just keep going. Stayed for a week. About 7 campsites with fire rings. Great trails and people camping near were respectful."

    "Almost all near a creek of some sort. Hiking trails near by. No facilities. Room for larger groups ~40 people max for the biggest site ~6 for the smallest"

    3. Sandy Beach Campsite

    1 Review
    Tamassee, SC
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 476-9700

    "Right next to the Chattooga river. You're on the beach."

    4. Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites

    8 Reviews
    Balsam Grove, NC
    32 miles
    Website

    "Right off the road, the short couple yards dirt road entrance to the campsite had a couple big pot holes that requires accurate driving around, but the campsite had at least three spots for seclusion for"

    "Good place for me to overnight, there are no facilities, the entrance is a bit hidden google maps will get you very close look for the small tent sign on your right when headed away from the parkway my"

    5. Black Balsam Knob - Dispersed Camping

    6 Reviews
    Balsam Grove, NC
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    "Perfect for tent camping right off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Campsites are next to the road under the pine trees or you can camp on top of the mountain."

    "You MUST camp outside of 1000ft from road. You WILL get investigated by park Rangers, which stepped up enforcement of this stupid, pointless law around 2 years ago."

    6. Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Balsam Grove, NC
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    "All dirt roads back here. 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)."

    "With that said:

    • remote- you have to want to get up here but it's really easy to do once you drive it a few times.

    *clearly marked spots. I am actually located at ucc-2. ** The Dead End spot."

    7. King Creek

    1 Review
    Highlands, SC
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (843) 336-3248

    8. Blackwell Bridge

    2 Reviews
    Long Creek, SC
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 638-9568

    "Couple things to know you don't need 4wd to get to the campsite. I do want to say though that the road down to the spot is a little wonky so be prepare for bumpy road."

    9. Blackwell Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Long Creek, SC
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 638-9568

    "Access is rough, (moderate clearance vehicles required). Also, as courtesy - cruise the bridge and see if people are down there first, (both sides).

    Sweet backcountry spot!"

    10. 475b

    2 Reviews
    Brevard, NC
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    "This is a great first-come-first-serve location with several sites."

    "Road is a little rough but not terrible. 3-4 spots to park around this hairpin with 3 camping spots lotuses in the middle."

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Showing results 1-10 of 36 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Pickens, SC

65 Reviews of 36 Pickens Campgrounds



Guide to Pickens

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Pickens, South Carolina, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. With numerous spots available, campers can find the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.

Scenic Waterfalls for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience the breathtaking trails leading to waterfalls near Mountain Rest Mountain Top, where you can hike down to a creek and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
  • The King Creek area offers access to stunning waterfalls and whitewater, making it a great spot for those who love both hiking and water activities.
  • For a unique riverside experience, the Sandy Beach Campsite places you right next to the Chattooga River, perfect for enjoying the sound of flowing water while you relax.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Pickens

  • Hiking is a must at Blue Valley Dispersed Camping, where you can explore nearby trails and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities at Blackwell Bridge, where the Chauga River is open for trout fishing year-round.
  • Set up camp at Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed and take a short hike to discover beautiful waterfalls, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Pickens, South Carolina

  • Be prepared for rough access roads when visiting Earl’s Ford dispersed, as some areas may require moderate clearance vehicles to navigate.
  • Always pack in your own water and supplies, especially at places like Grapevine Campground, where amenities are limited.
  • Keep an eye out for trash and practice Leave No Trace principles to maintain the beauty of spots like 475b, ensuring these natural areas remain pristine for future visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Pickens, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Pickens, SC is Mountain Rest Mountain Top with a 4.3-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Pickens, SC?

TheDyrt.com has all 36 dispersed camping locations near Pickens, SC, with real photos and reviews from campers.