Originally Posted by
etsisk
I was looking at the NCDOT bike maps, but they aren't very specific - blurred maps with really no guidebook/turn info that I could see. No reason nowadays that they couldn't switch to some format like google maps or something so you could enter it into a gps, or have it on a tablet and zoom in and out, side to side, etc. I'm thinking about riding from the outer banks back to Pittsboro at the end of the month, but I'd likely just take an NC atlas and plan it using that.
The CNC ride you're talking about does sound cool - especially the way you're doing it! Right now, though, it's about 50% further/day than I probably have in me.
I recommend going to your local Tourist Information Centre. Many towns have them, or if not in town, I've also seen them on borders between states when I've been travelling in the US. Collect maps, collect campground information, collect other accommodation information.
Also visit several sporting goods stores, bookstores and newsagencies. They often have quite detailed maps.
Service stations will have decent road maps.
As for google, you can type in your starting point and destination, and click the little bicycle symbol to get somewhat more bicycle-friendly routes. Then type 'accommodation near Pittsboro' and scroll around to see all the places available between the two points. I see lots of Inns and B&Bs. Type 'campground near Pittsboro' and scroll around to see all the campground options ... I see there are several in that area, depending on what route you might like to go.
Remember that you don't need to "stealth camp" when you tour by bicycle. That's one option ... but many of us also camp in designated campgrounds, or stay in hostels, motels, inns, hotels, B&Bs and other interesting places.
I also recommend increasing your distance ... ride frequently, and once or twice a week ride a little bit further than what you're currently comfortable with. Even just 2 or 3 or 5 miles further than what you rode before. Being comfortable with longer distances increases your chances of being comfortable on a tour, and finding things like food and accommodation.