Dispersed campsites in the Pisgah National Forest offer rustic camping near Cosby, Tennessee, with many locations situated at elevations between 2,000-3,500 feet. These primitive wilderness sites typically experience cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with nighttime temperatures dropping significantly even in summer months. Most backcountry camping spots require self-sufficiency with personal water filtration systems and waste management plans.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The lakes near Robbinsville provide excellent fishing access with multiple campsites along shorelines. At Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites, a camper noted "We stayed at 7 in a van. It had level parking and I could walk down to the bank to fish and have a fire." Another visitor mentioned "Good fishing. Bass and Bluegills."
Waterfall exploration: Within 5 miles of some dispersed sites near Canton, visitors can access swimming holes and natural water features. A camper at Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites shared "there's a little trail to a waterfall after you go down the old logging road and follow the path across the creek. Very short, very easy about 0.5 mile or less from the creek."
High-elevation hiking: Trails from Black Balsam provide access to mountain balds with open panoramic views. A camper reported, "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!" Another mentioned, "The clouds are amazing you are basically in them or above them."
What campers like
Lake access sites: Waterfront campsites offer direct water views and recreation. At Lake Santeelah Dispersed, one camper observed "There are 9 sites here down a decent gravel road. You have to drive past the cemetery and you'll see the sign... Site 9 had a little trail down to the lake, 2 fire pits and a picnic table." Another visitor noted the area has "several camps all just off the road. They all get right up to the lake with area for tent and fire pit."
Well-maintained fire rings: Despite primitive conditions, many sites feature established fire areas. A visitor at Lake Santeetlah mentioned sites had "nice fire pits, good tent pads. One of the best free sites I have stayed at." Another camper found "Each of the sites we've seen appear to be well-maintained with nice flat, well-drained tent pads, a fire pit, a picnic table, and 2 poles to hang lanterns."
Spacious sites: Many locations offer ample space between camping areas. At Paint Creek Corridor, visitors find dispersed sites along forest service roads. One camper at Long Hungry Road noted sites are "so spread out it feels like you're the only one on the lake! Most parking next to campsites could fit camper van or tiny trailer."
What you should know
Site occupancy patterns: Weekend congestion is common at free sites, with some locations showing evidence of long-term camping. A visitor to Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites observed "Looked like a lot of the people at the other sites along this road were more permanently set up there." Another camper at Long Hungry Road noted "There are 9 sites here... We showed up late and got the furthest site on the road."
Variable road conditions: Access roads may require careful navigation, especially after rain. A visitor to Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites reported "A narrow trail means privacy, be careful heading down to avoid the rocks in the way." Another camper noted "the short couple yards dirt road entrance to the campsite had a couple big pot holes that requires accurate driving around."
Safety considerations: Some areas have reported security issues. A Wash Creek visitor cautioned "there are signs about being a high crime area and they are not kidding while I was out picking up a few things at ingles someone came by and took my tent and sleeping bag that was inside." Others recommend not leaving valuables unattended at campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for kids: Certain campsites offer better terrain for families with young children. A camper at FS 289 Pull Off noted "Great Campsite along the Smoky Mountain 1000 Overland route... it is very peaceful with a nice stream running by." Another mentioned "The creek is only a few feet away from the campsite."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer opportunities to observe local fauna. A Lake Santeetlah camper reported "We had lots of birds and butterflies around camp. Keep your eyes out for the Tufted Titmouse a cute little grey bird resembling a Cardinal."
Cell service limitations: Most sites have limited or no connectivity. As one Wash Creek camper explained, "I have T mobile and I lost service about 10 mins from the campground and had no signal while staying there." A Lake Santeetlah visitor noted "Cell phone service with Verizon was 1 to 2 bars. Sometimes good others not so."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: Smaller RVs and camper vans are most suitable for these areas. At FS 289, a camper observed "Another review recommended an off-road vehicle or a jeep to get here. In dry conditions, I got here just fine in an Outback Wilderness, and 5 minutes later a Prius drove up."
Parking options: Some sites allow for direct vehicle access while others require walking from roadside parking. At Blue Ridge Roadside Campsites, a visitor noted "the campsite had at least three spots for seclusion for both tent camping and car camping, which I did."
Limited services: No hookups or dumps are available at most sites, requiring self-contained systems. One Lake Santeetlah camper reported "We seemed to be the only ones out camping during this time in that whole area. It was the perfect spot for our travel trailer. The other sites did not look to be too RV friendly. This site was long and pretty flat."
