Black Balsam Knob Dispersed
Free, no-reservation dispersed camping near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, AT (NC/TN section) in North Carolina.
No permit required National Forest
- Permit notes
- None.
- Access
- Near Sam Knob trailhead; short walk to sites, extremely popular for sunrise/sunset.
- Stay limit
- 14 days
- Amenities
- None
- Land manager
- Pisgah & Nantahala National Forest (USFS)
- Approximate location
- View general area on Google Maps (35.32, -82.87) — approximate area center, not an exact pin. Coordinates are approximate area centers (not exact GPS pins) meant to guide you to the general dispersed-camping corridor or forest road. Conditions, road access, and fire restrictions change seasonally — always verify with the local ranger district or BLM field office before you go, and check current fire restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a permit required at Black Balsam Knob Dispersed?
No permit is required. None.
What's the stay limit at Black Balsam Knob Dispersed?
14 days
Is camping at Black Balsam Knob Dispersed free?
Yes — this is free dispersed camping with no reservation or camping fee. Some sites may have small unrelated fees, like trailhead parking — see access notes above.
Sources
NearbyOther free campsites near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, AT (NC/TN section)
- Long Hungry Road Dispersed (Lake Santeetlah)
- Wesser Bald Fire Tower Dispersed
- Wash Creek Dispersed Campsites #4/#5
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