NANTAHALA LAKE DISPERSED CAMPING SITE - LAKE ACCESS

Open

Open year-round for dispersed camping on a first-come, first-served basis. Fire restrictions are in effect starting April 15, 2026, prohibiting open burning and campfires outside developed recreation sites. Portable propane stoves and covered charcoal grills are permitted. 14-day stay limit within a 30-day period.

Nantahala National Forest

Hurricane Florence Closures- Croatan National Forest

Due to Hurricane Florence the following areas will remain closed on the Croatan National Forest: The Neusiok Trail from Pinecliff Recreation Area Trailhead to Pinecliff Equestrian Trail Detour Fishers Landing Recreation Area Pinecliff Recreation Area Siddie Fields Neuse River Recreation Sites…

Nantahala National Forest

Max Patch Restrictions- Appalachian Ranger District

Restrictions on camping, fires, animals, aircraft and bicycles in Max Patch area.

Nantahala National Forest

Appalachian Ranger District Office Closed

The Appalachian Ranger District Office is closed until further notice for HVAC repairs. The office is available for phone calls, however, in-person sales and services are currently closed.

About

Nantahala Lake Dispersed Camping Site offers primitive camping with lake access in the Nantahala National Forest. The site sits near Nantahala Lake, a scenic high-mountain lake whose waters feed into the Nantahala River. This area provides a quieter alternative to the developed campgrounds in the region. As dispersed camping on national forest land, visitors should come prepared for a primitive experience. There are no developed facilities, potable water, or designated services. Campers must bring all water and supplies and pack out all trash. The 14-day stay limit within a 30-day period applies to all dispersed camping in the forest. The surrounding Nantahala Ranger District offers over 250,000 acres of recreation opportunities including fishing in Nantahala Lake, hiking on interconnecting trails, and access to the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway. Nearby Appletree Group Campground is approximately 10 minutes away for those needing developed facilities.

Directions

From Franklin, NC, take US-64 West to Old Murphy Road (SR 1442), then turn onto Wayah Road (SR 1310) and continue approximately 28 miles. The route passes Nantahala Lake.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed No
Toilets
Dump Station No
Wifi No
Pets Allowed Yes
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

Contact

Email sm.fs.nantahalard@usda.gov
Phone +1 (828) 524-6441

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

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