I was in Asheville for about two months this summer I must say we over stayed our welcome, don't try to fly a sign anywhere down town or if you do try it on your first day and maybe the "welcome to this place" luck will be on your side, and watch out for cops on bikes, segways, etc. I was there august through late september and yes, people are burnt out on travelers. I would try down in the river arts district like suggested, I heard the icehouse was squattable, but while we were there we were up in the "woods" at the tunnel road camp sites (if you have a tent this works, but watch out for mountain lions). The city isn't what it used to be atleast 4 years ago; don't squat in the building near the exxon and shell station near the bridge with the murals--we stayed there for about a week, and after we left there were atleast 3-4 women killed there and a total of 6 during our stay. Good luck and safe travels.
p.s. if the cops find your camp site they'll slash your tents and gear, 'especially in winter'.