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

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

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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