Open

Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations or fees. Nantahala National Forest is currently under high fire danger status.

Nantahala National Forest

Rainbow Springs Road closed for reconstruction

Rainbow Ridge Road (NFSR 437) on the Nantahala National Forest will close on Monday, October 19, to begin permanent repairs after a large section the road collapsed during Hurricane Helene. Our contractor anticipates this work will be completed in February 2027. While repairs are underway, the…

Nantahala National Forest

Siddie Fields Day Use Area closed for improvements

The Siddie Fields Day Use Area on the Croatan National Forest is closed for a wide-ranging project to repair storm damage on sites along the Neuse River, improve access and infrastructure, and strengthen resiliency to withstand future hazardous weather events.Members of the public should avoid the…

Nantahala National Forest

Uwharrie Cave and Mine Closure Order

Entering a cave or mine on Uwharrie National Forest is prohibited.

About

Ammons Branch Campground is a small, free dispersed camping area tucked into Nantahala National Forest in Macon County, North Carolina. The campground consists of four primitive tent sites accessible via Bull Pen Road, a gravel forest road that branches off from Horse Cove Road east of Highlands. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, lantern hanger, and fire ring for campfires. This is true primitive camping with minimal amenities. A shared pit toilet serves all four sites, but there is no potable water available, so campers must bring their own supply. The campground operates on a pack-in, pack-out basis with no trash service provided. Sites are first-come, first-served with no reservations or fees. The area offers access to hiking trails including the Ammons Branch Trail and provides opportunities for scenic forest recreation. The remote setting and lack of development make this a quiet destination for experienced campers seeking a backcountry-adjacent experience without venturing far from road access.

Directions

From Highlands, NC, travel Main Street east approximately 4.5 miles through Horse Cove Road. When pavement ends, turn right on Bull Pen Road and continue about 1.5 miles to the campground.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi No
Pets Allowed —
Showers No
Electric Hookups —
Water Hookups —
Sewer Hookups —
Camp Store No
Price $0

Vehicle

Max RV Length —
Max Trailer Length —
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (828) 524-6441

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile None

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