Primitive camping near Erwin, Tennessee centers on dispersed sites in Cherokee National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 6,000 feet. The area sits at the intersection of the Tennessee-North Carolina border, offering access to both Cherokee and Pisgah National Forests. Temperatures often drop 15-20°F cooler at higher elevations compared to Erwin proper, with unpredictable mountain weather patterns common year-round.
What to do
Fishing in creeks: Near Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area, campers can fish in streams. "Opportunities for fishing and boating are abundant," notes one reviewer, though they warn about "lots of road noise" due to the campground's location "in a valley bordered by highway on 3 sides."
Hiking to scenic balds: The trail to Grassy Ridge Bald offers unique hiking with elevation gain. "It's a short hike up from Carver Gap. There are several spots on the bald to pitch your tent," writes Carissa D. Another camper mentions the contrast with typical Appalachian Trail sections: "The Appalachian Trail is frequently referred to as The Green Tunnel because of the amazing wormhole effect of trees, rhododendron and other vegetation that shroud your views. But not here!"
Mountain biking: The forest roads and trails near Pisgah National Forest provide mountain biking opportunities. A reviewer noted these dispersed sites are a "great launch pad for hiking and mountain biking."
What campers like
Panoramic mountain views: The high-elevation sites at Grassy Ridge Bald offer exceptional vistas. One camper described it as "truly one of my most memorable campsites I've ever stayed at" with "a thunderstorm over an adjacent mountain, a beautiful sunset, a full moon to howl at, and a sunrise that can't be beat."
Creek-side camping: At Victor Road Dispersed camping area, sites next to flowing water enhance the camping experience. One camper noted: "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."
Seclusion options: Some sites provide true backcountry isolation. Frank M. said Victor Road Dispersed was "Perfectly Secluded" with a "small creek nearby provided a peaceful backdrop. No one around and only saw one other vehicle driving by."
What you should know
Site accessibility challenges: Many roads require careful navigation. For Old NC 105 Dispersed Camping, one camper warned: "The begging of the road from either side is easy enough to get down but in the middle it gets really rough would not recommend driving all the way through with out an SUV or better clearance and 4 wheel drive."
Water sources: Filtering water requires planning at some sites. A camper at Old NC 105 noted: "No camp sight that I could find had access to the river that runs along this road so make sure to bring plenty of bottled water."
Privacy considerations: Roadside sites often have unexpected visitors. One camper at Old NC 105 described: "A lot of people just stop and walk right through my camp to get a better view, only a few of them even apologizing and even fewer asking permission."
Variable site conditions: Site quality can differ significantly. At Little Stony Creek, a camper reported: "Lots of trash everywhere making some sites unusable. Lots of poison ivy."
Tips for camping with families
Easy-access waterfront sites: For families seeking water activities, consider areas with simple access. At Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping, Julie L. observed: "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."
Short hike options: Some campsites require minimal hiking for big rewards. Regarding Grassy Ridge Bald, Andrew noted: "Beautiful 6000' bald off the AT and along the state line between North Carolina and Tennessee, plenty of places to pitch a tent. Firewood is scarce so bring a lantern and cook stove."
Safety preparation: Weather at high elevations can change rapidly. On Grassy Ridge Bald, Carissa D. cautioned it's "Super windy so dress appropriately!"
Tips from RVers
Road condition alerts: For RV access, road conditions are critical information. At Pisgah National Forest Dispersed, one camper warned: "I'm sure this spot is beautiful, however the road was closed due to flood damage when we tried to visit."
Site spacing: RV campers appreciate knowing about site proximity. At Pisgah, a camper reported: "Free sites, first come first serve. Definitely some disrespectful neighbors but sites aren't closely packed."
Resource management: Limited amenities require advance planning. One camper at Victor Road shared: "We 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."
