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Best Dispersed Camping near Elizabethton, TN

100 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping areas surround Elizabethton, with Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area offering the closest option. This primitive area features campsites near water access for kayaking and fishing, though reviews note significant road noise from the nearby highway. One visitor explained, "This is a park outside the gate and walk your gear in type of place, so bring your IKEA bags or a wagon." The area lacks facilities, with no drinking water, picnic tables, or toilets.

Additional options include Beauty Spot Gap and Unaka Mountain Overlook, both providing mountain views but requiring high-clearance vehicles on rough forest roads. For hikers willing to trek, Grassy Ridge Bald offers spectacular 6000-foot elevation camping along the Appalachian Trail at the North Carolina-Tennessee state line. According to a camper, "There are several spots on the bald to pitch your tent. Super windy so dress appropriately!" All sites follow typical dispersed camping regulations: pack out trash, observe fire restrictions, and leave no trace.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Elizabethton, Tennessee (25)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Elizabethton, TN

83 Photos of 25 Elizabethton Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Elizabethton, TN

100 Reviews of 25 Elizabethton 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.

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

    Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

    Creekside Camping

    At the intersection of the North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia state lines, sits this national forest which offers multiple dispersed camping areas along Bear Creek. Opportunities for hiking, cycling, fishing, and paddling are abundant.  The Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail are just minutes away, as well as some easy whitewater paddling fun on the White Top Laurel Creek.

    Most of campsites are large, very shaded, along a beautiful treelined road, and surrounded by mountains. 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 often spend about 20-30 minutes cleaning these sites upon arrival. Please Leave No Trace! 

    Our site had a good fire ring, and was on the edge of a creek that we could filter water from with ease. We stayed at this camp for 3 weeks during the pandemic shutdown and it was a perfect place to ride out this crazy storm and decompress from some anxiety. 

    The closest town is Damascus, VA, about 12 miles away. The town is small, but draws thousands of tourists each year who are either hiking the Appalachian Trail or cycling the famous Virginia Creeper bike path. It is equipped with a decent sized grocery store, gas, and couple of restaurants, and a cute downtown area. There is absolutely no cell service at this camp, you have to go into town or hike a local mountain to get service up high.

  • Alyssa E.
    Jul. 27, 2021

    Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful, safe, peaceful, and fast cell service!

    There are so many sites tucked along this dirt road and some incredible views! I spent almost 14 days here and almost didn't want to leave! The dirt road must've been regraded in the past year as it is easily drivable. I stayed in several sites further up the road and they're all good options! There is traffic, but not much. I have 5G service on both Verizon and Sprint/Tmobile (Verizon has a better signal). Lake James State Park has water at the picnic shelters. The water pump at the Catawba River entrance allows you to connect a hose to it while the Paddy Creek is better for using containers. I'm not confident it's potable water though there's no sign saying it's not. I was using jugs at Paddy Creek and noticed tiny things in the water. Went to Catawba and didn't find anything in the water, but filtered it to be safe.

  • 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--

  • Glennie V.
    Apr. 1, 2024

    Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

    Be Aware Of Your Surroundings

    First time trying dispersed-camping and was super excited originally! We followed the coordinations and pulled into an off-road spot. Initially we felt pretty comfortable riding through the national park. However when we arrived to the site there was someone already there. We didn't think much at first, until we realized what they were doing in their car: It was a man and female. They appeared to be smoking meth and had a distinctive smell coming from their truck. They were making incoherent noises and could barely hold their heads up. They then pulled out a gun and started shooting at the signs near the road. Needless to say we quickly packed our gear and left. It was definitely scary and not the best encounter for first time dispersed camping. Thankfully I was with my partner and felt safe with him. If I was alone, I'm unsure how safe I would've felt, as a traveling/camping solo-female. We were able to find another dispersed campground down the road about 15-20 mins alongside the road. We also saw more people car-camping and doing the same: so overall we felt better about the situation. However, I'm not sure if I'd recommend this spot or go back again: Be aware of your surroundings and always carry something on you to protect yourself!

  • Jon M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2024

    Scales Trailhead Basecamp

    Serious off road capability needed

    The road in is...."rocky". High clearance 4wd needed. Not ADV friendly, unless you're very adventurous. Access by horseback would be my #1 pick.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Guide to Elizabethton

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Elizabethton, Tennessee, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Elizabethton, Tennessee

  • Many dispersed camping areas, like Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry, offer stunning views and a chance to escape the crowds, making them ideal for those seeking solitude.
  • Be prepared to hike in to reach some sites, such as Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area, which provides a peaceful environment for tent camping and water access for fishing or kayaking.
  • Always pack out what you pack in, as many areas lack trash disposal facilities, ensuring that the natural beauty remains intact for future visitors.

Scenic vistas for dispersed campers

  • For breathtaking mountain views, consider Unaka Mountain Overlook, where you can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscape while camping in a tranquil setting.
  • The Beauty Spot Gap on Unaka Mountain is another fantastic location that offers picturesque scenery and a chance to immerse yourself in nature.
  • Campers looking for a unique experience can explore Clifford Island, which provides a boat-in option for those wanting to camp on an island surrounded by water.

Dispersed campers should check out Steele Creek

  • Steele Creek is a well-reviewed spot known for its access to a beautiful creek, perfect for swimming and relaxing after a day of hiking.
  • This area features multiple sites along the creek, allowing campers to choose their ideal location while enjoying the soothing sounds of flowing water.
  • With no amenities available, it's essential to come prepared with all necessary supplies, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping in Elizabethton, TN?

Free dispersed camping is available near Elizabethton at Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area, located on the edge of Watauga Lake. This area is ideal for tent camping but requires you to park outside the gate and walk your gear in. For additional options, check out Beauty Spot Gap on Unaka Mountain which offers drive-in access. Nearby regions also provide dispersed camping along National Forest roads, though you'll need to follow Forest Service guidelines and practice Leave No Trace principles.

What amenities are available at dispersed camping areas around Elizabethton?

Dispersed camping areas around Elizabethton are primitive with minimal to no amenities. At Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites, you'll find basic fire rings but no toilets, potable water, or trash services. Paint Creek Corridor offers similar primitive conditions with opportunities for fishing and hiking nearby. Most dispersed sites feature established fire pits from previous campers, but you'll need to pack in all water and supplies and pack out all waste. Cell service is typically limited, so plan accordingly.

Are there any regulations or permits required for dispersed camping in Elizabethton?

Most dispersed camping in the Elizabethton area follows standard National Forest regulations: camping is typically limited to 14 consecutive days in a 30-day period. At Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, permits are required on weekends and holidays from May through October. Victor Road Dispersed follows typical Forest Service rules with no specific permits needed outside of fire restrictions. Always check with the Cherokee National Forest office for current fire bans, road closures, and seasonal restrictions before your trip.

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