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Best Dispersed Camping near Limestone, TN

78 Reviews

Several dispersed camping areas exist within driving distance of Limestone, Tennessee, primarily located on public lands in Cherokee National Forest and Pisgah National Forest. Unaka Mountain Overlook and Beauty Spot Gap provide primitive camping options with scenic mountain views, while Paint Creek Corridor offers limited dispersed sites along forest service roads. Additional backcountry camping can be found at Grassy Ridge Bald, which requires a hike-in approach along the Appalachian Trail, providing more remote camping experiences for those willing to pack in their gear.

Access to most dispersed sites requires travel on unpaved forest roads that may become difficult after rain or during winter months. Many campsites lack basic amenities - no drinking water, toilets, trash service, or designated picnic areas are provided at most locations. Fire regulations vary by season and location, with some areas permitting campfires while others have restrictions. A visitor at Unaka Mountain Overlook noted, "The sunset was amazing but unfortunately the areas around the established fire rings had trash and broken glass scattered about." High-clearance vehicles are recommended for reaching more remote camping areas, particularly after weather events.

The dispersed camping experience near Limestone offers solitude and scenic mountain views as primary attractions. Areas like Grassy Ridge Bald provide panoramic vistas from elevations around 6,000 feet. According to one visitor, "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." Several sites report issues with previous campers leaving trash behind, which detracts from the natural experience. Paint Creek Corridor campers should be aware that many former camping spots have been closed with "no camping" signs posted, making site selection more limited than forest service websites might suggest. Campers seeking water access should consider sites along the various creeks and streams that run through the region.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Limestone, Tennessee (20)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Limestone, TN

58 Photos of 20 Limestone Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Limestone, TN

78 Reviews of 20 Limestone 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.

  • 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--

  • 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".

Guide to Limestone

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Limestone, Tennessee, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots to pitch their tents and enjoy the great outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, there's something for everyone looking to escape into nature.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The Paint Creek Corridor offers stunning natural beauty, though be prepared to search for available spots as some areas are marked off-limits.
  • For breathtaking mountain vistas, the Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry provides a memorable camping experience with plenty of room to set up your tent.
  • If you're looking for a picturesque setting, the Pisgah National Forest Dispersed features beautiful landscapes and a variety of hiking trails leading to stunning waterfalls.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Limestone

  • Enjoy fishing and kayaking at the Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area, where water access is abundant, but be mindful of the road noise.
  • Hikers will appreciate the trails near the Unaka Mountain Overlook, which offers access to scenic views and a chance to explore the surrounding wilderness.
  • For those seeking adventure, the Route 197 Roadside Camp is a great spot to start your hiking journey, with trails leading to beautiful landscapes.

Unique Features of Dispersed Camping Areas

  • At the Weaver Bend Road, you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere without the need for permits, making it a hassle-free option for spontaneous trips.
  • The Clifford Island offers a unique boat-in camping experience, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more secluded setting.
  • Campers at the Sam's Gap Overlook should be aware that a permit is required, but the stunning views make it worth the effort for those who plan ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Limestone, TN is Unaka Mountain Overlook with a 2-star rating from 1 review.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 20 dispersed camping locations near Limestone, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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