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It is prohibited in many areas, so it’s important to know local regulations. in Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia on US Forest Service lands. Dispersed camping opportunities are most abundant on the the A.T. Dispersed camping, sometimes called “stealth camping,” requires more time and effort and skill to find a comfortable and low-impact site than using a designated site, but can offer solitude and other advantages. Designated campsites are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, except in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.ĭispersed camping, which means campers have the freedom to select the location of their campsite, is allowed in some areas of the A.T.

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Unlike shelter sites these sites often do not have privies info about how to properly dispose of waste can be found here. A natural water source such as a spring or creek is usually nearby. In a few areas, especially in New England on steep terrain or where soil is thin, wooden platforms may be provided.
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They have relatively flat areas where you can pitch a tent or other portable shelter. Guidebooks and apps may also list overnight sites.ĭesignated campsites along the A.T. The distance between shelters and campsites varies significantly so it is important to always carry a map. During the pandemic hikers are advised to avoid them due to the difficulty of social distancing and the possibility of contaminated surfaces many are also closed. Since almost all shelters are available on a first-come, first-served basis, you cannot count on space in shelters.
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There is no state-wide or national policy allowing campers to stay for free in parking lots, so you will need to get permission from the manager or security at each location.Īs you can see, with a little bit of legwork and planning, you can find plenty of free camping in North Carolina.All overnight hikers should carry a tent or other lightweight portable shelter.īackcountry camping is available at about 125 designated camp sites and is also allowed in the immediate vicinity of most of the 260 shelters along the Trail.
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If you are looking for free RV camping in North Carolina, your best bet may be parking lots like Cabella's, Walmart & Cracker Barrel. Similar rules apply to areas managed by the Department of Fish and Wildlife. Not all wildlife management areas allow this, so be sure to check the rules carefully. You may also be able to camp in these locations as well. Some lands have been designated as hunting and shooting areas by the state. Be sure to pay attention to posted signs that indicate if camping is not allowed in the area.

Primitive camping is available within this national forest. There are plenty of spots for free camping here within the Cheoah Ranger District, Nantahala Ranger District, and the Tusquitee Ranger District. With over 530,000 acres of forest land, this is the largest forest in NC. It’s bordered on three sides by water and the area includes both bogs and saltwater estuaries for campers to explore. This national forest is a popular location for visitors as it is the only true coastal forest on the east coast. Choose from locations within the Appalachian Ranger District, Grandfather Ranger District, and the Pisgah Ranger District to enjoy free camping in North Carolina. This beautiful forest is filled with high peaks, waterfalls, and over 500,000 acres to explore. Each has designated areas where campers can take advantage of dispersed camping. There are four National Forests in North Carolina, with hundreds of thousands of acres to explore and enjoy. These areas are primitive in nature without bathrooms, showers, electricity, or the amenities you will find at developed campgrounds. Dispersed camping is available within designated sites. One of the biggest draws for free camping in North Carolina is the abundance of national forest land. Keep reading to learn more about free camping in North Carolina! National Forests in North Carolina So, where can you camp for free in North Carolina? Can you simply walk into a forest, pitch a tent and call it a day? What about a parking lot or a wildlife management area? When it comes to free camping in North Carolina, there tends to be a bit of confusion about what is and what isn’t legally permitted.

North Carolina is a state where mountains, forests, and free camping opportunities abound. Free Camping in North Carolina: What You Need to Know
