BEAR CREEK LAKE DISPERSED CAMPSITE

Open — Open year-round for dispersed camping on a first-come, first-served basis. No permits, fees, or reservations required. Groups limited to 12 people per campsite. Access via rough Forest Service roads may be difficult in winter conditions.

About

Bear Creek Lake Dispersed Campsite is situated within the Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area, a 6,311-acre wilderness tract in the Nantahala National Forest near Cashiers, North Carolina. This area is designated as a bear sanctuary and offers completely primitive dispersed camping with no designated campsites, amenities, or facilities. Campers must be self-sufficient and practice Leave No Trace principles. The Panthertown Valley is often called the "Yosemite of the East" and features dramatic granite domes, waterfalls, and over 30 miles of maintained backcountry trails open to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Access to the valley requires several miles of hiking from parking areas at Salt Rock Gap, Cold Mountain Gap, or Flat Creek, reached via rough Forest Service roads. The terrain is rugged and unforgiving, with stream crossings and elevation changes. Campers must camp at least 200 feet from water sources and trails, with group size limited to 12 people per site. All trash must be packed out, and human waste must be buried in catholes 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet from water. Campfires are permitted in existing fire rings but must be kept small and completely extinguished. This is backcountry camping for experienced outdoors enthusiasts prepared for wilderness conditions.

Directions

Access via three main Forest Service road entrances: Salt Rock Gap, Cold Mountain Gap, or Flat Creek. Roads are rough gravel and may require high clearance vehicles. From parking areas, hike several miles into the valley to reach camping areas near Bear Creek Lake. Cell service is unreliable.

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