Best Dispersed Camping near Gray, TN
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Best Dispersed Sites Near Gray, TN (18)
1. Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
Linville Falls, North Carolina12 Reviews•34 Photos•570 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Dispersed
- Market
2. Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry
Roan Mountain, Tennessee3 Reviews•21 Photos•93 SavesFor additional details: https://www.outdoorproject.com/united-states/tennessee/carvers-gap-grassy-ridge-bald
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
3. Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
Barnardsville, North Carolina12 Reviews•29 Photos•516 SavesThe Pisgah National Forest is a land of mile-high peaks, cascading waterfalls, and heavily forested slopes. Comprised of over 500,000 acres, the Pisgah is primarily a hardwood forest with whitewater rivers, waterfalls and hundreds of miles of trails. This national forest is home of the first tract of land purchased under the Weeks Act of 1911 which led to the creation of the national forests in the eastern United States. It is also home of the first school of forestry in the United States, now preserved at the Cradle of Forestry in America historic site, and boasts two of the first designated wilderness areas in the east. The Pisgah, Grandfather and Appalachian Ranger Districts are scattered along the eastern edge of the mountains of western North Carolina and offer visitors a variety of opportunities for outdoor recreation and enjoying the natural beauty of the mountains. Camping and Day-use Information Enjoy camping or a picnic at one of the many day-use areas. A list of camping and day-use areas in the Pisgah National Forest can be found here Recreation Maps Nantahala & Pisgah National Forest Maps Directions to Frequently Requested Places NC Arobretum and Bent Creek Area Blue Ridge Parkway South Blue Ridge Parkway North Pisgah Ranger District Cradle of Forestry Cradle of Forestry (Scenic Route) The Biltmore House Mt. Mitchell Be Safe The national forests in North Carolina offer a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. From the mountains to the sea, there are many exciting adventures awaiting your visit to these national forests. Please keep in mind that all outdoor recreational activities on the Croatan, Pisgah, Nantahala and Uwharrie national forests, including activities at recreation sites, have inherent risks due to the natural setting in which they occur. Always remember, your safety is your responsibility. Waterfall Safety for the Summer.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
4. Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area
Butler, Tennessee2 Reviews•9 Photos•61 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
6. Victor Road Dispersed
Little Switzerland, North Carolina8 Reviews•22 Photos•421 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Dispersed
- Firewood Available
- Alcohol
7. Hidden Valley WMA
Willis, Virginia2 Reviews•9 Photos•1 Save- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
8. Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites
Damascus, Virginia5 Reviews•15 Photos•228 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
Recent Dispersed Reviews in Gray
50 Reviews of 18 Gray Campgrounds
Betsy W.
Guide
Hidden Valley WMA
Great peaceful place
Dispersed camping free permit with Va wildlife, fishing, or use permit up to 14 days. Porta Jon available at campground and boat dock. Plenty of dead wood for fires. Trash cans available. Rocks for fire pits and no tables.
- mmike R.
Traveler
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".
- MMichael W.
Scout
Steele Creek
Great for tent camping
Maybe I missed this in the reviews, but all but 1 site were best for tents. I drove in to camp in my car and there was only 1 spot, which is by the creek crossing, and it was already taken. There’s a nice big spot at the end of the trail where you could rooftop tent/car camp, but the actual site is about 100’ away. Road wasn’t too bad, only a spot or 2 on the switchback that were probably best for a 4 wheel drive vehicle, but I’m sure most cars would be fine.
Adam B.TravelerPisgah National Forest Dispersed
Love Big Ivy
Easy access to water. Not a lot of theft. People with aggressive dogs do come here and think it's okay to have them off a leash. But that's everywhere anymore. The area is beautiful and one of the better places I've stayed.
kylie B.GuideSteele Creek
Quiet creek spot
This is my favorite spot in the pisgah national forest . I have stayed at all the free campsites around and left my review for each. This is by far the quietest, nicest, cleanest , site yet ! There are plenty of sites to pick from all along the creek , all of which appear to be well maintained , each with a fire ring . The road is pretty well maintained other than a few spots that you have to crawl through on the corners specifically. I drive a Toyota Camry that sits fairly low and I made it fine . My favorite part is definitely The creek , it is a great spot to swim so we are excited about that . There is a walking trail at the end of the road about 100 feet from our site , that had the best swimming hole at the end of it , where you can jump in. It has a couple small waterfalls to add to the ambience. The site is very clean other than some glass that I’ve been picking up . Definitely highly recommend these camp sites out of any others in the pisgah national forest! this area is beautiful and pure peace compared to the others in the area !
Kenny L.ScoutSteele Creek
Love this place
Great camping spot with access to the creek for swimming
Glennie V.Scout
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!
- BBrianGuide
Old NC 105 Dispersed
2024 check in
The past reviews are dead on for all aspects and road conditions.
- AAndrew S.Guide
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.
- IIsabel B.Scout
Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
Beautiful but impossible to find
We drove for what felt like forever at the Big Ivy Trailhead and only ever found one labeled campsite. We gave up and camped in an unofficial spot.
It was gorgeous! But there’s not much there and the drive is long.
- Sara S.Traveler
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.
Sagar B.ScoutWashington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites
Good safe spot
Right next to the road, so first time campers would feel safe. The creek’s sound is pleasant. No network at all.
- Katie A.Traveler
Old NC 105 Dispersed
Easy drive, great views
Coordinates are accurate to get you to this gravel road along a ridge top. Easy pull-in spots for cars and vans next to the road, several with great views of the valley and gorge. Most have primitive fire rings. Great cell service. Only downsides are good view sites right on the road, and hard to find level ground. Popular spot for vans.
Arthur D.ScoutLinville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
Good rest
Very primitive but a great and free place to get some dark pea e and quiet
- JJohn R.Guide
Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
Easy
It was very easy to get a spot but there weren’t great views and there is not much to do
Andy K.
LegendOld NC 105 Dispersed
Free camping with great views
Old NC 105 is a dirt road which goes on for miles with views both sides. Camping spots are available all along the road some with better views than others. Some spots are very shaded deep into the trees while others afford superb views of the gorge and distant Lake James.
- IIan B.Guide
Victor Road Dispersed
Several spots leading to creek
Great spot off of blue ridge parkway. There are several spots (at least 5 or so), but expect many to be occupied. The best spot appears to be at a creek crossing before the road splits. Not sure what is up there. Road is smooth, at least until the creek crossing. Several hunting cabins provide shelter as well.
Erik C.GuideWashington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites
Great little spot near the creek
Overall this was a great little spot right off the road. The sound of the creek was lovely all night. Only downside was the spot I set up camp was very close to the road and headlights from passing cars would light up the spot. However the road was quiet most of the night. There second spot close by and set a little further back that would get lit up by headlights as cars passed. Really lovely morning hike around the nearby lake more than made up for it though.
Claire K.GuideVictor Road Dispersed
Peaceful and Fun
The site we stayed in is the first couple on the left a couple minutes after you turn onto Victor road. There was an old house that one was on the plot of land but is gone now and only the chimney still stands. Enjoyable to build fires in and very scenic. Creek also visible from this site. Lots of cars do drive down the road though which is a bit annoying. Even an older gentleman stopped to talk to us about the land and house that used to reside there. We enjoyed our stay and definitely will be back.
Raquella 🥸.TravelerLinville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
Off of NC-105
We drove up on a Saturday and it wasn’t too crowded, definitely people around but plenty of open campsites. There were a couple of good washouts in the road, so 4WD or AWD would be recommended but maybe not required. Several good spots to pull in with a vehicle. We found a big spot but it was right next to the road (most of the campsites were), but it was still quiet enough - only one car that drove by at night.
We had a view of Table Rock and plenty of space for the two of us and our dog.
3 stars because of the proximity of the campsites to the road, as well as many of the campsites needing to be picked up after the last campers (we checked out at least 10 other spots before deciding where we wanted to stay).
Overall, a nice visit!
- SScotty H.Scout
Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
So very useful
I love how they get me where I'm going
Kelly G.Legend
Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry
Life 360 - a break in the Green Tunnel!
This was truly one of my most memorable campsites I’ve ever stayed at. After a glorious hike up Roan Mountain and back down I crossed the road and hiked out along the three balds and found a few lonely trees to hang a hammock between. 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! There was an evening thunderstorm over an adjacent mountain, a beautiful sunset, a full moon to howl at, and a sunrise that can’t be beat. The hike back was in and out of the clouds. Pure bliss!
Pro Tip : Please do not skin or scar trees. Bring your own firewood.
Carissa D.GuideGrassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry
Spectacular Views!
It’s a short hike up from Carver Gap. There are several spots on the bald to pitch your tent. There are not too many spots to gather firewood. A few sites already have rock pits made for you. Super windy so dress appropriately!
- AAndrewScout
Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry
Mountain Views
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.
Sophia L.Scout
Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area
Get what you pay for
Pros: Free, many sites with water access for kayaking/fishing, fire rings, parking lot close to sites. Cons: Lots of road noise-- you're sitting in a valley bordered by highway on 3 sides, and the echo is serious. Trash everywhere making some sites unusable. Lots of poison ivy.
So, if it's worth it to you for a free spot go ahead. You'll basically be camping in someone else's backyard, there are several residents.
- Jessica G.Scout
Pisgah National Forest Dispersed
Beautiful
First solo overnight backpacking trip at CAT Gap Loop. Awesome
Noah S.TravelerLinville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
Quick Stop for the night
It was very packed lots of people. Seemed very beautiful except the only spot we found was on a hill and it was very rocky but it was good enough for the night.
Guide to Gray
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Gray, Tennessee, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.
Tips for free and dispersed camping near Gray, Tennessee
- Many dispersed camping spots, like Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area, provide free access, making them perfect for budget-conscious campers.
- Be prepared for limited amenities; for instance, Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry offers no drinking water or toilets, so bring everything you need.
- Always practice Leave No Trace principles, especially in areas like Paint Creek Corridor, where trash can accumulate and impact the natural beauty.
Top activities while free camping near Gray
- Fishing and kayaking are popular at Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area, where many sites offer water access.
- Hiking enthusiasts will love the trails around Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry, which provide stunning views and a chance to explore the Appalachian Trail.
- For those seeking solitude, Hidden Valley WMA offers a peaceful environment with opportunities for wildlife observation and fishing.
Dispersed campers should check out Clifford Island
- Accessible only by boat, Clifford Island provides a unique camping experience away from the hustle and bustle, perfect for those looking to escape.
- This spot is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure, making it a great choice for families.
- With no amenities available, campers should come fully prepared, ensuring they have everything needed for a comfortable stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Gray, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Gray, TN is Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he with a 4.2-star rating from 12 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Gray, TN?
TheDyrt.com has all 18 dispersed camping locations near Gray, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.