North Carolina is a wonderful place to visit, and Free North Carolina boondocking lets you to do so on the cheap. North Carolina, dubbed “Tar Heel State”. One of the biggest draws for Free North Carolina boondocking is the abundance of national forest land. RV parking and free camping is available within designated sites. These areas are undeveloped and lack amenities such as restrooms, showers, electricity, and other amenities found in developed campgrounds. Free North Carolina Camping Spots and Free North Carolina Boondocking Spots are what we concentrated on when searching for the best Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations.
Jump directly to the 13 Eastern – North Carolina Boondocking
Jump directly to the 23 NW Area – North Carolina Boondocking
Jump directly to the 25 SW Area – North Carolina Boondocking
Free North Carolina Boondocking
If you enjoy camping, there are numerous possibilities for free camping in North Carolina. In the Appalachian Mountains, near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there are several fantastic possibilities. Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and High Point, all in the Piedmont region, offer wonderful options for people interested in history and urban camping. The inner coastal range is home to some of the best BBQ in the world, as well as an interesting historical site. Camping along the coast and on the outer banks is ideal for water lovers. There are several boondocking spots in North Carolina, no matter where you look.
North Carolina is a state that is as gorgeous as it is diverse in natural treasures, from the beaches of Cape Hatteras to the ancient highlands of Great Smoky Mountain National Park. There’s an outdoor experience waiting for you, whether it’s a day of surfing in the Atlantic Ocean or a hike up Mount Mitchell, the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi.
If free tent camping in NC amid sand dunes isn’t your thing, pack your belongings and head to the mountains of Western North Carolina, an area known across the southeast for its abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. You won’t run out of reasons to go outside, whether you’re rafting down the Nantahala River through the magnificent and isolated Nantahala National Forest or hiking the 1,175-mile Mountains-to-Sea Trail that runs the length of North Carolina.
There are 40 mountains in North Carolina that reach above 6,000 feet (the largest is Mount Mitchell, at 6,684 feet) and 100 that rise above 5,000 feet. Camping in the shadows of towering peaks is only one of the many reasons why North Carolina camping is so unique. With 2.1 million acres of state-owned land, finding a campground is as simple as pulling out a map.
check out our video
13 Eastern – North Carolina Boondocking
Jump directly to the 23 NW Area – North Carolina Boondocking
Jump directly to the 25 SW Area – North Carolina Boondocking
Want more ideas to round-out your trip to the South-Eastern States?
► Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee ◄
- 29 Free Alabama Boondocking Locations
- 94 Free Arkansas Boondocking Locations
- 90 Free Florida Boondocking – RV Parking and Camping Sites
- 77 Great Georgia Boondocking – Free RV Parking & Camping Locations
- 52 Best Louisiana Boondocking and Free RV Parking Spots
- 87 Best Mississippi Boondocking and Free RV Parking Spots
- 26 Free South Carolina Boondocking Spots – RV Parking & Camping
- 34 Free Tennessee Boondocking – Camping Spots & RV Parking
1. Free North Carolina Boondocking – Art Lilley Campground
Address
Falls Dam Road (USFSR 516)
Troy, North Carolina
GPS: 35.404582, -80.073316
Elevation: 869′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
Art Lilley Campground is open April 1 to December 15. Dispersed primitive camping for tents among the Badin Lake OHV Trails Complex in the Uwharrie National Forest. RV’s and campers are also allowed in the area. No designated sites.
2. Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations – Yates Place
Address
553-599 Dusty Level Road
Troy, North Carolina
GPS: 35.364606, -79.989031
Elevation: 774′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
The road in is Dirt. Yates Place is open all year. really like this spot, pretty quiet, several spots to pick from. Most of the people parked then hit the trail as its about all there is to do. Locals are super nice.
3. Free North Carolina Boondocking Spots – Badin Horse Camp
Address
Mullinix Road (FR 1154)
Troy, North Carolina
GPS: 35.442526, -80.04055
Get Directions
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
Badin Horse Camp is open year-round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 nights at Badin Horse Camp. This is a primitive camping area where people camp in self contained RV/Horse Trailers. It is located in an open field with tie outs for the horses. No amenities available. Access to 15 bridle tails
4. Free North Carolina Camping Spots – East Morris Mountain
Address
2048 Tower Road
Troy, North Carolina
GPS: 35.439814, -79.958386
Elevation: 827′
Management: Public – Forest Service
This free campsite is located within the National Forests in North Carolina’s Uwharrie Ranger District. I wasn’t sure where the site was this weekend, but I was able to find a cozy spot near one of the trailheads. It was pretty perfect for a quiet peaceful night and morning.
5. Free North Carolina RV Parking – Lassiter Mill Road TH
Address
Robbins Branch Trailhead Road
Asheboro, North Carolina
GPS: 35.590121, -79.94856
Elevation: 574′
Management: Public – Forest Service
The road to this location may be under construction. As you should do with all campsites, please contact the rangers office for confirmation before heading out.
6. Free North Carolina RV Boondocking – Butner Lake WMA
Address
Lyons, North Carolina
GPS: 36.158527, -78.757698
Elevation: 342′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
The road in is Dirt and .2 miles miles from a paved road. Butner Lake WMA is open During hunting season. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is at least 30′.
7. Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations – Holly Shelter Game Land
Address
Hampstead, North Carolina
GPS: 34.4566, -77.60741
Elevation: 66′
Management: Public – North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (Official)
Public hunting area that allows camping during certain times of the year. Search and call ahead to figure out if camping is allowed during the time you are planning your trip.
8. Free North Carolina Dispersed Camping Locations – Long Point Boat Launch
Address
Maysville, North Carolina
GPS: 34.798203, -77.177887
Elevation: 7′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Unofficial)
Long Point Boat Launch is open Year Round. Primitive camping is available, along with opportunities to fish and boat (shallow launch). There are no amenities at this site. The drive to Longpoint Boat Launch offers scenery through pine forest where you may catch a glimpse of the red-cockaded woodpecker and endangered species the Croatan National Forest protects.
9. Free North Carolina Boondocking – Dixon Field Landing
Address
Maysville, North Carolina
GPS: 34.856111, -77.209166
Elevation: 1′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
Free, dispersed primitive, camping at a small canoe launch in the Croatan National Forest of North Carolina. No amenities! Bring what you need and pack every bit of it out with you when you leave. First come first served – no reservations.
10. Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations – Catfish Lake Boat Launch
Address
Unnamed Road
Pollocksville, North Carolina
GPS: 34.943763, -77.110615
Elevation: 39′
Management: Public – Forest Service
Free dispersed camping. Great Lake is located in the Croatan National Forest. It has boat access for shallow-bottomed boats.
11. Free North Carolina Boondocking Spots – Cahooque Creek Recreation Site
Address
Havelock, North Carolina
GPS: 34.917326, -76.852227
Management: Public – Forest Service (Unofficial)
The road in is Gravel and 1 miles from a paved road. Cahooque Creek Recreation Site is open Year round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. Since we did not find the listed free campsite we were looking for the first night, we found this nice and clean boat ramp. With dry toilets and trash cabs. RV only. Stayed in the first parking lot for single vehicles.
12. Free North Carolina Camping Spots – Fisher’s Landing (hike in)
Address
New Bern, North Carolina
GPS: 34.999916, -76.976486
Elevation: 13′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)
Fisher’s Landing (hike in) There are 6-15 campsites at this location. Free camping in the Croatan National Forest. Open year-round. South of New Bern, NC. There are 9 tent sites, vault toilets and water available. Activities at this site include camping, swimming and fishing. This is a dispersed area and allows group camping.
Address
Robersonville, North Carolina
GPS: 35.688534, -77.261353
Elevation: 38′
Management: Privately Owned Campground (Unofficial)
The road in is Paved. Private Site – Contact ahead of time. Open when we are home. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is small campers and tents. You may stay overnight at Private Site – Contact ahead of time.
23 NW Area – North Carolina Boondocking
Jump directly to the 13 Eastern – North Carolina Boondocking
Jump directly to the 25 SW Area – North Carolina Boondocking
[wpgmza id=”92″]
1. Free North Carolina Boondocking – Pond Mountain WMA Hunt Camp
Address
Creston, North Carolina
GPS: 36.573319, -81.651385
Elevation: 4899′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
Camping area in the Northwest corner on North Carolina. Located within the Pond Mountain Wildlife Management: area. This camp was makes a great home base while hunting the area, but open to everyone. Horseback riding is allowed during certain times of the year.
2. Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations – Harmon Den Dispersed Camping
Address
Cold Springs Road (NFSR 148)
Hot Springs, North Carolina
GPS: 35.762689, -82.983727
Elevation: 2795′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
The road in is Gravel. You may stay 14 nights at Harmon Den Dispersed Camping. Roadside camping is generally allowed beside most gravel roads. However, along Cold Springs Road (NFSR 148) in Harmon Den, roadside camping is permitted only at sites with a camping symbol.
3. Free North Carolina Boondocking Spots – Shelton Laurel Backcountry Camping
Address
Marshall, North Carolina
GPS: 36.029288, -82.656378
Elevation: 2484′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
Shelton Laurel Backcountry Camping is open year round. You may stay 14 days at Shelton Laurel Backcountry Camping. There are many sites up Big Creek Rd in the Shelton Laurel Backcountry area. This is a gravel/dirt road and most of the campsites are off of the main road, but still accessible by road. There is a stream that runs near most of the sites and there are a number of trailheads with great hikes (great waterfall about a 2 mi hike).
4. Free North Carolina Camping Spots – Rt 19W Dispersed
Address
U.S. 19W
Burnsville, North Carolina
GPS: 36.032131, -82.408325
Elevation: 3071′
Management: Public – Forest Service
Free Dispersed camping in the National Forests in North Carolina’s Appalachian Ranger District. No reservations. First come, first served.
5. Free North Carolina RV Parking – Flat Top Mountain Area Dispersed Camping
Address
Forest Road # 278
Burnsville, North Carolina
GPS: 36.044658, -82.387573
Elevation: 3371′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
Primitive campsites are available along FR 278 and at the end of FR 1451, but no facilities are offered. The forest service suggest this area for those who want to camp with horses. Appalachian District of the Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina.
6. Free North Carolina RV Boondocking – Rt 197 Dispersed
Address
North Carolina 197
Green Mountain, North Carolina
GPS: 36.107271, -82.354732
Elevation: 3278′
Management: Public – Forest Service
Free Dispersed camping in the National Forests in North Carolina’s Appalachian Ranger District. Reservations are not accepted at this campsite.
7. Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations – South Mountain Game Lands
Address
Bostic, North Carolina
GPS: 35.602986, -81.768195
Elevation: 2458′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
South Mountain Game Lands is open Sept. through mid May. Primitive camping inside of a Wildlife Management: Area. Open during hunting season. Horseback riding is allowed in the WMA but prohibited during the time the gates to this camp area are open.
8. Free North Carolina Dispersed Camping Locations – Big Ivy Area, Coleman Boundary
Address
Dillingham Road (FR 74)
Barnardsville, North Carolina
GPS: 35.765423, -82.35961
Elevation: 3668′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
The road in is Gravel. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 nights at Big Ivy Area, Coleman Boundary. Primitive camping is available in pull-offs along FR 74. No facilities are provided. Boondocking in the Pisgah National Forest. Bring everything you’ll need, and take it with you when you leave.
9. Free North Carolina Boondocking – Curtis Creek South Dispersed Campsite
Address
Curtis Creek Road
Old Fort, North Carolina
GPS: 35.675171, -82.195045
Elevation: 1624′
Management: Public – Forest Service
There is a dispersed campsite on the east side of the road, well before you reach the campground to the north. I was unable to get coordinates at the time, but keep your eyes open.
10. Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations – South Toe River Dispersed Camping
Address
South Toe River Road(NFSR 472)
Burnsville, North Carolina
GPS: 35.722116, -82.248879
Elevation: 3523′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
The road in is Gravel. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 nights at South Toe River Dispersed Camping. Roadside camping is generally allowed beside most gravel roads. However, along NFSR 472, near Black Mountain Campground, camping is restricted to designated sites.
11. Free North Carolina Boondocking Spots – Curtis Creek North Dispersed Campsite
Address
Curtis Creek Road
Old Fort, North Carolina
GPS: 35.720559, -82.182455
Elevation: 3281′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Unofficial)
The road in is Gravel. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 14 nights at Curtis Creek North Dispersed Campsite.
12. Free North Carolina Camping Spots – Neals Creek Road
Address
Montreat, North Carolina
GPS: 35.74055, -82.20439
Elevation: 3425′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
Roadside camping is generally allowed beside most gravel roads. However, along FS 2074, accessible from the Blue Ridge Parkway, camping is restricted to designated sites. The first one is about 1.5 miles off the Blue Ridge Parkway. It had a parking area large enough for at least three cars but you have to squeeze between a few stumps to get in.
13. Free North Carolina RV Parking – Sugar Cove Pisgah
Address
Sugar Cove Road
Marion, North Carolina
GPS: 35.735895, -82.159854
Elevation: 1998′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Unofficial)
The road in is Gravel and 1 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 14 nights at Sugar Cove Pisgah. There are two dispersed campsites on the east side of the gated section of Sugar Cove Road in the Grandfather District of North Carolina’s Pisgah National Forest. Both are situated along a nice sized creek that looks like it should support trout.
14. Free North Carolina RV Boondocking – Buck Creek Road Boondock
Address
Buck Creek Road AKA Highway 80
Marion, North Carolina
GPS: 35.765649, -82.165976
Elevation: 3209′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Unofficial)
The road in is Gravel and less than one miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. You may stay 14 nights at Buck Creek Road Boondock.
15. Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations – Victor Fields Dispersed Camping
Address
Victor Road (FR 5511)
Burnsville, North Carolina
GPS: 35.792436, -82.173745
Elevation: 3747′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
The road in is Gravel. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 nights at Victor Fields Dispersed Camping. Free dispersed camping one half of a mile from the Blue Ridge Parkway in the APPALACHIAN RANGER DISTRICT of North Carolina’s Pisgah National Forest.
16. Free North Carolina Dispersed Camping Locations – Toms Creek Falls
Address
Woodlawn, North Carolina
GPS: 35.785766, -82.058194
Elevation: 1854′
Management: Public – National Park Service
From 70 in Marion go about 5 miles of 221 North then take a left on Huskins Branch Road go about a mile and before you get to the parking area to access the Toms Creek Falls Trail there’s a dirt road to your right in Pisgha National Forest go up it about a mile then there’s one pull-off and small camping site
17. Free North Carolina Boondocking – Old N.C. 105
Address
Nebo, North Carolina
GPS: 35.837047, -81.92849
Elevation: 2887′
Management: Public – National Park Service (Official)
12 miles or so dirt road with several campsites with fire circles. Road is a bit rough in some areas, 4wd/awd recommended. Beautiful mountain overlook at most sites.
18. Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations – Kistler Memorial Roadside Camping
Address
NC 1238 (Kistler Memorial Highway)
Marion, North Carolina
GPS: 35.94135, -81.932191
Elevation: 3307′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
You may stay 14 nights at Kistler Memorial Roadside Camping. Dispersed primitive car camping on the edge of the Linville Wilderness Gorge. See a spot, pull in and set up. However, you must camp at least 200 ft away from any trailheads.
19. Free North Carolina Boondocking Spots – Wilson Creek Area
Address
Mortimer/Piedmont Rd (982)
Morganton, North Carolina
GPS: 35.917711, -81.811521
Elevation: 1623′
Management: Public – Forest Service
The road in is Gravel. You may stay 14 nights at Wilson Creek Area. Primitive dispersed car camping in pullouts along a Pisgah National Forest Road. Nothing but land is provided. Bring anything that you’ll need and take it all with you when you leave.
20. Free North Carolina Camping Spots – Brown Mountain OHV Entrance Road
Address
V7Q7+R7 Adako, Johns River, NC
Morganton, North Carolina
GPS: 35.88994, -81.7369
Elevation: 1109′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
The road in is Gravel and <2 miles from a paved road. Brown Mountain OHV Entrance Road is open all year. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 14 at Brown Mountain OHV Entrance Road. Off The Brown Mountain Beach Road, Just off 181, is the National Forest Service Off Highway Vehicle trail System. The Road to the Parking lot is about a mile or 2 long and has 7 campsites along this pretty creek.
21. Free North Carolina RV Parking – Roseboro Rd Dispersed Camping
Address
Collettsville, North Carolina
GPS: 36.015366, -81.780765
Elevation: 1726′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
Many spots all along Roseboro Rd. I camp here all the time and love the privacy. It’s a bit off of 105 down a long gravel road. I have a Honda Civic and I get down the road just fine. Many spots have a creek, and one even has a large open field. Enjoy!
22. Free North Carolina RV Boondocking – SR – 1368 Dispersed
Address
3433 Mulberry Creek Road
Lenoir, North Carolina
GPS: 36.003477, -81.652279
Elevation: 1250′
Management: Public – Forest Service
Free Dispersed camping in the National Forests in North Carolina’s Grandfather Ranger District. First come -> first camped. No reservations are accepted. We ended up staying by the fishing pond on Boone’s Fork Park Road – a short drive from this one.
23. Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations – Buffalo Cove Camp
Address
Cove Branch Road
Lenoir, North Carolina
GPS: 36.04687, -81.515724
Elevation: 1337′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
A primitive game-land camping area geared towards people hunting Buffalo Cove WMA. Horseback riding has specific rules and dates.
25 SW Area – North Carolina Boondocking
Jump directly to the 13 Eastern – North Carolina Boondocking
Jump directly to the 23 NW Area – North Carolina Boondocking
[wpgmza id=”93″]
1. Free North Carolina Boondocking – Basin Creek Campground
Address
Longbottom Road
Hays, North Carolina
GPS: 36.374062, -81.143058
Elevation: 1423′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
Basin Creek Campground is open May 1 – Aug . 31. You may stay 14 nights at Basin Creek Campground. Just outside of the Thurmond Chatham Wildlife Management: area. This campground is geared towards hunters. This WMA borders Stone Mountain State Park.
2. Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations – Buffalo Cove Camp
Address
Cove Branch Road
Lenoir, North Carolina
GPS: 36.04687, -81.515724
Elevation: 1337′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
A primitive game-land camping area geared towards people hunting Buffalo Cove WMA. Horseback riding has specific rules and dates. See the website for more information about it.
3. Free North Carolina Boondocking Spots – Bear Creek Hunt Camp
Address
National Forest Road
Robbinsville, North Carolina
GPS: 35.419874, -83.948653
Elevation: 2129′
Management: Public – Forest Service
Free Dispersed camping in the National Forests in North Carolina’s Cheoah Ranger District. This campsite does not use a reservation system. First come, first served. Some vehicles drove by at 8 a.m. No Problems, good gravel road, well maintained.
4. Free North Carolina Camping Spots – Santeetlah Lake, Pine Ridge Road NCSR #1147
Address
Pine Ridge Road
Robbinsville, North Carolina
GPS: 35.367268, -83.853607
Elevation: 1953′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)
The road in is Paved. Santeetlah Lake, Pine Ridge Road NCSR #1147 is open April to October. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and suitable for tents or very small RVs. You may stay 14 Days at Santeetlah Lake, Pine Ridge Road NCSR #1147.
5. Free North Carolina RV Parking – Santeetlah Lake Site P13
Address
E. Buffalo Circle
Robbinsville, North Carolina
GPS: 35.363163, -83.831619
Elevation: 1975′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)
The road in is Paved. Santeetlah Lake Site #P13 is open April to October. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 Days at Santeetlah Lake Site #P13. Small primitive site next to Santeetlah Lake. The site is right off the road and very small. Suitable for Tents, very small RVs. No electric, water, hook-ups and restroom. You must carry-out your own waste.
6. Free North Carolina RV Boondocking – Panther Creek
Address
Robbinsville, North Carolina
GPS: 35.370841, -83.627873
Elevation: 1896′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
The road in is Gravel and .5 miles from a paved road. Panther Creek is open All. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 14 at Panther Creek. Two sites. One is walk in only, the other is large but would be difficult to get a big camper in. Flat camp area with tent pads, fire rings, and picnic table. Right on a trout stream.
7. Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations – Huskins Branch Hunters Camp (Fires Creek)
Address
939 Fires Creek Wildlife Rd
Hayesville, North Carolina
GPS: 35.087154, -83.86673
Elevation: 1810′
Management: Public (Official)
You may stay 14 nights at Huskins Branch Hunters Camp (Fires Creek). A free primitive campground situated on the edge of the Fire’s Creek Recreation area. The FCRA, a bear sanctuary, is home to the Fire’s Creek Rim Trail #72. This 25-mile trail follows the ridge around Fires Creek Wildlife Management: Area.
8. Free North Carolina Dispersed Camping Locations – Fire’s Creek Dispersed Camping
Address
Hayesville, North Carolina
GPS: 35.117625, -83.803707
Elevation: 2523′
Management: Public
There are many dispersed campsites along Forest Road 340. They are free to use for up to 14 days. There are no services or facilities. You must pack all your items, including food and trash. out with you when you leave. This area is a bear sanctuary so please practice bear safety while here.
9. Free North Carolina Boondocking – Wine Spring Horse Camp
Address
Forest Road 711
Topton, North Carolina
GPS: 35.172779, -83.611694
Elevation: 4184′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
Wine Spring Horse Camp is open year-round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. Wine Spring Horse camp is a free, primitive camping area with 6 designated camping sites. The camp area is gated with a combination lock. Reservations are required and can only be made by contacting the forest service Nantahala District Office at 828-524-6441.
10. Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations – Blue Valley Dispersed Campground
Address
Blue Valley, North Carolina
GPS: 35.012894, -83.233284
Elevation: 2662′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)
The road in is Gravel and 2 miles from a paved road. Blue Valley Dispersed Campground is open Year Round. There are 16-29 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is Any. You may stay 14 days at Blue Valley Dispersed Campground.
11. Free North Carolina Boondocking Spots – Ammons Branch
Address
Highlands, North Carolina
GPS: 35.045738, -83.148651
Elevation: 3171′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)
The road in is Gravel and 1.5 miles from a paved road. Ammons Branch is open Year Round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Ammons Branch. Primitive camp on Ammons Branch. From Highlands, follow Main St. east out of town about 4.5 miles through Horse Cove. When pavement ends, bear right on Bull Pen Rd and go 1.5 miles.
12. Free North Carolina Camping Spots – Bull Pen Road Campsites
Address
Bull Pen Road
Cashiers, North Carolina
GPS: 35.0203, -83.1118
Elevation: 2748′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
The road in is Gravel. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet. You may stay 14 nights at Bull Pen Road Campsites. We located five free, dispersed campsites along Bull Pen Road not far from Highlands, NC in the Nantahala National Forest. They are spread over a three mile stretch of graveled mountain road.
13. Free North Carolina RV Parking – Panthertown Valley West Parking Area
Address
Cashiers, North Carolina
GPS: 35.16793, -83.044453
Elevation: 4048′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Unofficial)
The road in is Gravel. Panthertown Valley West Parking Area is open year-round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet.
14. Free North Carolina RV Boondocking – Sunburst Roadside Campsites
Address
Forest Road 97
Canton, North Carolina
GPS: 35.372745, -82.937508
Elevation: 3127′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 nights at Sunburst Roadside Campsites. Ten miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway and nestled between Shining Rock and Middle Prong Wilderness within Pisgah National Forest.
15. Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations – Investor Gap 4WD
Address
Black Balsam Knob Road
Canton, North Carolina
GPS: 35.326308, -82.880645
Elevation: 5808′
Management: Public – Forest Service
The road in is 4×4. Investor Gap 4WD is open mid-August until January 2nd. The maximum RV length at Investor Gap 4WD is 15 feet. You may stay 14 nights at Investor Gap 4WD.
16. Free North Carolina Dispersed Camping Locations – Black Balsam Knob
Address
Canton, North Carolina
GPS: 35.3279, -82.8743
Elevation: 6207′
Black Balsam Knob
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
Hike in tent camping is allowed on Black Balsam Knob. Fires are not permitted and bear canisters are required. Park on the road and hike 1/2 mile to get to the hill. There are bare rock or grassy spots for tents (dispersed, not designated sites).
17. Free North Carolina Boondocking – Blue Ridge Roadside Campsite
Address
Highway 215
Canton, North Carolina
GPS: 35.308069, -82.908282
Elevation: 4989′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
You may stay 14 nights at Blue Ridge Roadside Campsite. Though not directly on it, this free primitive roadside campsite was named after the Blue Ridge Parkway by the forest service. On this road, highway 215, you are only allowed to camp in designated campsites.
18. Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations – Courthouse Falls Dispersed
Address
National Forest Road
Balsam Grove, North Carolina
GPS: 35.272808, -82.892515
Elevation: 3471′
Management: Public – Forest Service
Free Dispersed camping in the National Forests in North Carolina’s Pisgah Ranger District. First come -> First Camped. Reservations not accepted.
19. Free North Carolina Boondocking Spots – Headwater Dispersed
Address
Headwaters Road
Canton, North Carolina
GPS: 35.318425, -82.800314
Elevation: 3100′
Management: Public – Forest Service
Free Dispersed camping in the National Forests in North Carolina’s Pisgah Ranger District. First come -> First Camped. Reservations not accepted.
20. Free North Carolina Camping Spots – Avery Creek Dispersed
Address
National Forest Road
Pisgah Forest, North Carolina
GPS: 35.321804, -82.775351
Elevation: 3520′
Management: Public – Forest Service
Free Dispersed camping in the National Forests in North Carolina’s Pisgah Ranger District. No reservations. First come, first served.
21. Free North Carolina RV Parking – Avery Creek Roadside Camping
Address
Avery Creek Road
Pisgah Forest, North Carolina
GPS: 35.29888, -82.73839
Elevation: 2277′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
The road in is Dirt. Avery Creek Roadside Camping is open year round, weather permitted. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 14 days at Avery Creek Roadside Camping. Free campsites along Avery Creek, just north of Davidson River. Being close to a paved road, these campsites are very popular. Small rigs only as the parking is just pullouts along the road. The campsites are blocked by boulders. Campsite eleven is high up on a steep mountain but it’s totally worth it, if that’s your bag.
22. Free North Carolina RV Boondocking – Wash Creek Roadside Campsites in Pisgah National Forest
Address
Wash Creek Road – FR 5000
Asheville, North Carolina
GPS: 35.440516, -82.664051
Elevation: 2645′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)
The road in is Gravel and less than 0.5 and up to 3 miles from a paved road. Wash Creek Roadside Campsites in Pisgah National Forest is open Year Round but Blue Ridge Parkway Closes in Winter. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 17ft. You may stay 14 Days at Wash Creek Roadside Campsites in Pisgah National Forest. Winding gravel road that crosses Blue Ridge Parkway with lots of pull-off campsites.
23. Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations – Henderson Reservoir Roadside Camping
Address
Horse Shoe, North Carolina
GPS: 35.42445, -82.6552
Elevation: 2441′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
The road in is Dirt and 4 miles from a paved road. Henderson Reservoir Roadside Camping is open year round. Access as permitted by weather.. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Henderson Reservoir Roadside Camping.
24. Free North Carolina Dispersed Camping Locations – Yellow Gap Roadside Camping
Address
Yellow Gap Road
Horse Shoe, North Carolina
GPS: 35.38625, -82.68003
Elevation: 2986′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
The road in is Dirt. Yellow Gap Roadside Camping is open year round. Access is weather permitting. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Yellow Gap Roadside Camping. Lots of free camping locations along this road. Many are beautiful and situated along a creek. However, you cannot park in most of the campsites. You park on the road and walk 10s of feet to the camp. Each campsite has a tent pad, lantern pole, and a fire ring with BBQ. The road is well maintained but too narrow and windy for big rigs.
25. Free North Carolina Boondocking – South Mountain Game Lands
Address
Bostic, North Carolina
GPS: 35.602986, -81.768195
Elevation: 2458′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
South Mountain Game Lands is open Sept. through mid May.
FAQs on Free North Carolina Boondocking
Is There Boondocking in North Carolina?
Boondocking is permitted in numerous specified places of the Croatan, Nantahala, Pisgah, and Uwharrie National Forests in North Carolina. You should be fine as long as you don’t camp near trailheads and observe all fire safety requirements (particularly in the summer).
Can I Camp Anywhere in Pisgah National Forest?
Except within 500 feet of a road or in a designated closed area, camping is permitted anywhere on National Forest property. For possible backpacking circuits, good campsites may be located along several trails in the area, particularly those in the South Mills River section.
Does Pisgah National Forest Offer Free Camping?
There are steep hills, waterfalls, and almost 500,000 acres to explore in this lovely forest. Enjoy FREE camping in North Carolina at spots around the Appalachian Ranger District, Grandfather Ranger District, and Pisgah Ranger District.
Can You Camp Anywhere in the Outer Banks?
Free Camping Outer Banks, NC – Camping is also prohibited in the maritime forests, which include the Kitty Hawk Woods Reserve and the Frisco and Buxton Woods Reserves, however campgrounds are located nearby. Remember that fireworks are not permitted anywhere on the Outer Banks, while modest campfires are permitted in some campgrounds.
Can You Sleep on the Beach in the Outer Banks?
Although camping on the OBX beaches is not permitted, there are other wonderful campgrounds in the nearby cities. The majority of them have beach access.
Free North Carolina Boondocking Locations
Although there is no such thing as a free lunch, there are free campgrounds. Setting up camp in an undeveloped region, whether you call it boondocking or ‘dispersed camping,’ has a lot of attraction. Choose your own spot without making a reservation, stay for a week or two, and camp for free (or a very low price) at one of these North Carolina boondocking spots.
You’re not merely going off the grid like you would when dry camping. Because there aren’t many amenities other than a parking spot, you’ll most likely need your own generators, batteries, solar panels, and fresh water supplies when boondocking — say goodbye to Wi-Fi!
Boondocking is permitted in numerous specified places of the Croatan, Nantahala, Pisgah, and Uwharrie National Forests in North Carolina. You should be fine as long as you don’t camp near trailheads and observe all fire safety requirements (particularly in the summer).
Free North Carolina Boondocking on the Beaches
Camping in North Carolina at one of the state’s many beaches is a terrific way to experience the sun and sand without the cost of a vacation rental, which is fortunate for people who enjoy sleeping under the stars. There are dozens of governmental and private campgrounds to select from throughout the coast’s 300 miles.
Outer Banks camping is ideal for vacationers who enjoy the great outdoors and a spirit of adventure. Campers can pick how much “roughing it” their Outer Banks camping experience entails, from big camping facilities with community pools and tennis courts to rugged beachside campsites with sea oats and sand.
From the Currituck County mainland to the relatively unknown Portsmouth Island south of Ocracoke, the Outer Banks has campgrounds and campsites. As a result, visitors can choose to stay on the beach, amid the sand dunes, in the Outer Banks’ abundant marine forests, or right in the middle of the excitement and attractions.
Clearly, the Outer Banks is the best place to go if you want to get back to nature, and campers will find plenty of places to park their RVs or stake up their tents and soak in the breathtaking view.
Free North Carolina Boondocking and Camping Spots in the National Forests
We’re all aware that camping on the East Coast is both limited and expensive. Fortunately, this isn’t the case in North Carolina if you know where to search. The amount of national forest land in North Carolina is one of the main draws for free camping. Within specified camping areas, dispersed camping is available. These areas are undeveloped and lack amenities such as restrooms, showers, electricity, and other amenities found in developed campgrounds. As a result, it’s critical to plan ahead of time and pack out anything you brought into the camp. After all, being well-prepared in any scenario allows for greater enjoyment and relaxation.
Despite the limits, you will quickly discover that there are a plethora of sites to select from, many of which are entirely free and in beautiful places. Another key thing to know is that camping on public land is limited to 14 days (unless otherwise noted). This safeguards the land and ecosystem from normal human activity while also allowing others to enjoy the place. And, fortunately, there are many of free camping spots scattered over the huge National Forests.
For starters, North Carolina contains four national forests that range from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Atlantic coast’s extensive stretches of seashore. With so much natural beauty, it’s no surprise that 7 million people visit these forests each year, making North Carolina a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world.
The state’s four national forests, the Nantahala, Pisgah, Uwharrie, and Croatan, are home to the majority of the free camping opportunities. Dispersed dry camping opportunities are typical of these free campsites. As a result, you’ll need to provide your own supplies. On the plus side, most of these camping locations are extremely private. That is, there are no people!
— Pisgah National Forest is a national forest in North Carolina. There are steep hills, waterfalls, and almost 500,000 acres to explore in this lovely forest. Enjoy free camping in North Carolina at areas inside the Appalachian Ranger District, Grandfather Ranger District, and Pisgah Ranger District.
— Croatan National Forest is a national forest in the United States. Visitors flock to this national forest because it is the only authentic coastal forest on the east coast. Water surrounds it on three sides, and there are bogs and saltwater estuaries to explore for campers.
— Nantahala National Forest is a national forest in North Carolina. This is North Carolina’s largest forest, covering over 530,000 acres. The Cheoah Ranger District, Nantahala Ranger District, and Tusquitee Ranger District all have plenty of places to camp for free.
— Uwharrie National Forest is a national forest in North Carolina. Within this national forest, primitive camping is available. Keep an eye out for signs indicating whether or not camping is permitted in the area.
The state has classified some sites as hunting and shooting grounds. It’s possible that you’ll be able to camp in these areas as well. This is not permitted in all wildlife management areas, so double-check the rules. The Department of Fish and Wildlife manages regions with similar rules.
You May Want to Join Our Boondocking Group on Facebook For More Information
You May Want to Join Our Campfire Recipes Group on Facebook For More Information
Check Out Our Pictures On Instagram – Our Big Escape.
