Wilderness areas offer the most primitive camping experiences. Backpacking and hiking is the only access to these areas; no vehicles are allowed. Due to regulations, campfires may not be permitted and strict adherence to no-trace-camping practices is expected. Permits may be required in some areas and/or for certain days. The effort level for this type of camping is higher but a wilderness experience usually returns an equal level of satisfaction.
Backcountry hiking and camping in our National Forests, and State and National Parks offer similar enjoyment of the outdoors, usually with easier access and fewer restrictions than Wilderness areas. Many, but not all, of these areas allow mountain bikes and horses. Backcountry permits are required in The Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Pisgah National Forest and Nantahala National Forest have many roadside campsites which are available on a first come-first serve basis. These are along the many miles of dirt and gravel roads, which wind through the more remote areas of the forests. These campsites do not offer any facilities, but car camping can be very relaxing as well as reasonably private.
National Forests and Parks have campgrounds, which offer designated campsites for reasonable fees. Reservations are a good idea since these campgrounds can often be full during peak season. These campsites usually have power and water, and the campgrounds usually have shower and restroom facilities. Solitude and privacy will be lacking, yet good hiking trails, fishing, swimming, biking, and other activities are usually within easy access from these campgrounds.
There are also many privately operated campgrounds located throughout WNC. Details about these campgrounds can be sourced through the Internet or by good old word of mouth. Another great source for this information is Woodall’s Campground Directory. These are published every year and can be purchased at most bookstores. Your local library probably has a recent copy. It is divided up by state and county so you need to be specific about the area in which you are interested.
