Saw two campsites on this road. Didn’t see any signs saying that a backcountry camping pass is required. So I believe it is in fact “free”. If your in the red river gorge area it’s fairly easy to get to and the gravel road isn’t too bad. However, if you come in from the Frenchburg side of the road it’s pretty gnarly. Would need a good 4x4 to access the campsites from the Frenchburg side.