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Best Dispersed Camping near Afton, TN

44 Reviews

Paint Creek Corridor offers primitive tent camping sites throughout the Cherokee National Forest near Afton, Tennessee, though visitors report difficulty locating all the designated spots. The corridor includes several fire-permitted camping areas along forest service roads, with only limited sites available on a first-come basis. A visitor noted, "There are several spots along the road that may have been for dispersed camping at some point but are now clearly marked with no camping signs."

Several other dispersed options exist within driving distance, including Unaka Mountain Overlook and Beauty Spot Gap on Unaka Mountain. These sites typically have established fire rings but lack amenities such as drinking water, toilets or trash service. Free camping is also available in nearby Pisgah National Forest, which offers numerous tent sites accessible via Roses Creek Road and New Ginger Cake Road. Road conditions vary significantly, with some locations requiring high-clearance vehicles. Trash accumulation affects multiple sites, with reviews mentioning the need to clean up after previous campers.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Afton, Tennessee (15)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Afton, TN

34 Photos of 15 Afton Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Afton, TN

44 Reviews of 15 Afton Campgrounds

  • Shari G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 30, 2020

    Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area

    Beautiful & Free but Lots of Road Noise

    Just on the edge of Watauga Lake sits this free dispersed camping area that is perfect for tent camping only. This is a park outside the gate and walk your gear in type of place, some bring your IKEA bags or a wagon. Opportunities for fishing and boating are abundant. Most of campsites are large, very shaded, and have at least one fire ring. A handful of sites have direct water access, and are more private. 

    There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or even pit toilet, so come prepared. The only major problem is that folks tend to leave a ton of trash around, so we spent about an hour cleaning the entire campground. Please Leave No Trace! Also, we would not recommend camping here on a busy weekend because the road is very close and the trucks are very loud! 

    The nearest town is Butler, which is small but offers the basics such as groceries and gas.

  • Jim M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 20, 2024

    FS 289 Pull Off

    Great dispersed site in the Pisgah NF

    Great Campsite along the Smoky Mountain 1000 Overland route. You need a good off road capable vehicle to access this site but it is very peaceful with a nice stream running by. Tent camping near the jeep or a high clearance overland teardrop should make it back here ok but not recommended for regular RV's.

  • Julie L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 16, 2021

    Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he

    Good Times at the Gorge!

    These are pretty decent sites. You just pull off the road, set up and enjoy the camping experience. 
    We hiked down to the gorge and also enjoyed the dispersed camping available right along the riverside, which was pretty cool but... that hike back up is a DOOZY especially with a pack on. I would recommend it. The payoff of the views is highly worth any trail difficulties. 
    This was a really clean, well respected area. I liked to see that most other campers were clearly doing their part to Leave no Trace.

  • K
    May. 15, 2021

    Victor Road Dispersed

    On the fly

    My husband and I took a road trip and needed to find a spot to car camp last minute in the area. The narrow road to go up/down is alittle sketchy but we made it. The first two spots were taken so we drove to the end where it seperated 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. There was plenty of space for a wider vehicle or multiple. There's literally no amenities which was no issue for us since we had what we needed, no cell service(Verizon) but no issues for us. We enjoyed the peace and quiet, other than the stream near by. Other than a deer that left its tracks nearby, nothing bothered us. --Visited May 9th-10th--

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 4, 2024

    Paint Creek Corridor

    Paint Creek Dispersed Camping

    The national forest service website says there are dispersed camping site throughout the corridor; however, I was only able to locate one and luckily it was vacant. There are several spots along the road that may have been for dispersed camping as some point but are now clearly marked with no camping signs. I did enjoy my stay here but I’m a little disappointed in the website saying there were multiple sites … i has to drive almost 4 hours to get there and would have been super disappointed if I arrived to no spots. Also a lot of trash in the area of the site sadly.

  • Justin L.
    Dec. 27, 2020

    Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he

    Nice spot off a dirt road

    Lots of pull offs off a dirt road. Beware if you’re coming from the south google tries to take you through private property. Take 221 to linville falls, right on 183, and right onto kistler memorial highway. It’s a dirt road but no issues with my Subaru Forester. I camped here in December 2020 and didn’t see anyone else. Plenty of wood, but not much of a view from my camp anyway. Lots of camps.

  • C
    Jul. 18, 2021

    Victor Road Dispersed

    Quiet & Secluded

    Nearly right at mile marker 342 Long gravel road, couple/few camping spots along the way, mostly on the left. Drive through a little creek, and stay to the right, a little ways down you’ll find another spot just before Laurel Retreat. A little larger clearing than the others, my pop-up fight nicely , plus Toyota Sequoia. Big fire pit. No water, no bathrooms, no hookups. (I have solar panels) A couple shelter/observation buildings with handicap parking scattered along the way.

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2024

    Pisgah National Forest Dispersed

    Stunning

    It's beautiful up there although there's not many campsites. I stayed at the second one up the dirt road. It wasn't officially designated but it was used as a campsite. You'll need four wheel drive to get in and out of it though. The road is long but you'll see a bunch of cool waterfalls and at the end of the road there is a great hiking trail with a beautiful waterfall. The dirt road goes on for a long time but it's in good condition so keep driving and you'll find a spot. There's really only 4 viable spots on that road but man is it gorgeous. Go to ranger road and keep going up. Do not follow google maps it will take you to a private driveway where there's a sign saying "no camping, your app is wrong, turn around now".

  • Sara S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 21, 2023

    Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he

    Breath Taking views

    The road up to the campsites is pretty steep and bumpy. Wouldn't recommend a car but saw several go through. There are a handful of sites on either side of the road. Some have steep drop offs off the side of the mountain so be careful. A few group sized sites with misc trails to wonder. Very quiet and serene but only 30 minutes from town.

Guide to Afton

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Afton, Tennessee, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you can enjoy the great outdoors while embracing the freedom of camping without designated sites.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Afton, Tennessee

Scenic Hiking Trails While Free Camping Near Afton

  • The Pisgah National Forest Dispersed area features stunning hiking trails and beautiful waterfalls, perfect for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
  • If you're up for a challenge, head to Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry for breathtaking views and a rewarding hike along the Appalachian Trail.
  • For a more relaxed experience, consider camping near Victor Road Dispersed, where you can enjoy peaceful walks along the creek and take in the scenic surroundings.

Fishing and Water Activities for Dispersed Campers

  • The Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area offers excellent access to water for kayaking and fishing, making it a great spot for water enthusiasts.
  • If you're looking for a unique experience, Clifford Island provides a boat-in camping option, allowing you to fish and enjoy the water while surrounded by nature.
  • For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, Route 197 Roadside Camp is a fantastic spot for fishing and exploring the nearby waterways.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Afton, TN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Afton, TN is Paint Creek Corridor with a 3-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Afton, TN?

TheDyrt.com has all 15 dispersed camping locations near Afton, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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