Free Camping in North Carolina
Discover 4 free and dispersed camping spots
Best Seasons
Spring, Fall, Winter
Climate
Humid subtropical with regional variations
Terrain
Mountains, Forests
Free Spots
4 locations
Camping Spots (4)
Pisgah – Wash Creek/Avery
Free dispersed camping around Pisgah NF, North Carolina. Gravel corridors along creeks with space for established pullouts and a few level clearings by Brevard/Looking Glass. Primitive conditions with no trash pickup or hookups. Crowded weekends Arrive early to claim a legal, existing site, pack out all waste, and verify current fire restrictions and seasonal road closures.
Nantahala – Wayah Bald Roads
Free dispersed camping around Nantahala NF, North Carolina. Hardwood ridges and balds with space for established pullouts and a few level clearings by Wayah Bald. Primitive conditions with no trash pickup or hookups. Steep grades Arrive early to claim a legal, existing site, pack out all waste, and verify current fire restrictions and seasonal road closures.
Pisgah – Courthouse Creek Roads
Free dispersed camping at Pisgah – Courthouse Creek Roads in North Carolina. Creeks and hardwood coves with informal pullouts and some level clearings near Courthouse Creek. Primitive conditions with no hookups or trash service. Crowded on weekends Arrive early, use established sites, pack out all waste, and check current fire restrictions and seasonal road closures.
Nantahala – Tellico Gap FR 423
Free dispersed camping at Nantahala – Tellico Gap FR 423 in North Carolina. Ridge roads and rhododendron with informal pullouts and some level clearings near Tellico Gap. Primitive conditions with no hookups or trash service. Tight switchbacks Arrive early, use established sites, pack out all waste, and check current fire restrictions and seasonal road closures.
Popular Camping Areas
- Pisgah National Forest
- Nantahala National Forest
- Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Important Regulations
- 14-day camping limits
- Bear safety protocols
- Hurricane season awareness
Permits: Most national forest camping is free
Complete Guide to Free Camping in North Carolina
North Carolina offers diverse camping from Blue Ridge Mountains to coastal areas, with excellent waterfalls, hiking, and Appalachian experiences.
Best Free Camping Areas in North Carolina
North Carolina offers diverse free camping opportunities across mountains, forests, coastline, waterfalls. The most popular areas include Pisgah National Forest, Nantahala National Forest, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, each offering unique landscapes and camping experiences.
When to Visit North Carolina for Camping
The best times for free camping in North Carolina are during spring, fall, winter. The state's humid subtropical with regional variations means weather conditions vary throughout the year, so planning your visit during optimal seasons ensures the best camping experience.
North Carolina Camping Regulations
Before camping in North Carolina, it's important to understand local regulations. Most national forest camping is freeMost dispersed camping follows standard federal guidelines, but some areas may have specific restrictions.
What to Expect
Free camping in North Carolina typically involves camping on public lands managed by the Forest Service, BLM, or state agencies. Expect primitive conditions with no hookups, but incredible natural beauty and the freedom to explore mountains, forests, coastline, waterfalls at your own pace.