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Best Dispersed Camping near Hartselle, AL

12 Reviews

Bankhead National Forest offers several free dispersed camping locations near Hartselle, Alabama. Boondock Dispersed Camping provides three primitive sites along a gradual gravel road, with the third site located in a cul-de-sac at the end. Wolf Pen Hunters Camp, also in Bankhead, features rustic backcountry camping with level, clear sites spread out for privacy. Both areas permit campfires and allow pets, but provide no amenities, drinking water, or toilets.

Campers should prepare for fully off-grid experiences at these locations. A review noted Boondock Dispersed Camping is "easy drive on paved road until you reach the GPS coordinates" with a "little gravel road" leading to camping areas where "animal noises were fantastic" and bug nets are recommended. Wolf Pen Hunters Camp sits near hiking trails, with one camper describing it as "back to basic nature" that's "open year round." TVA also manages some dispersed camping on their land along the Tennessee River, offering more unique riverside opportunities for those willing to boat to accessible shoreline areas.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Hartselle, Alabama (5)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Hartselle, AL

8 Photos of 5 Hartselle Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Hartselle, AL

12 Reviews of 5 Hartselle Campgrounds

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 1, 2021

    Painted Bluff Dispersed Campground - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    Unique Experience!!!

    Camping here is a very unique experience and completely different than most other campgrounds so I will try and make sure to include enough details to repeat our trip. This"campsite" is really just a large embankment along the Tennessee River on land owned by the TVA. They have a policy that on certain parts of their land along the Tenessee River you are allowed to camp following leave no trace rules. Make sure to follow the link for the campsite to learn more. Although you can use any of their lands there are limited areas that are flat or large enough to comfortably set up a tent. This particular site(GPS coordinates above) is a great space and was perfect for a night along the river. We parked our car on the southern side of the Guntersville dam and put in our boats at the loading ramp. we then kayaked with our gear in dry bags up the river past the amazing views of the painted bluff. We parked our boats for a quick swim(with life vests, the current was really strong) and hiked around the shore where there is a cave. We continued on upriver and finally found this particular site where we set up for the night. The banks of the river are pretty steep so finding a large enough site can be challenging. Be prepared to have extra time to search for another site if the river level is high. On the whole, this was one of the most amazing camping experiences I have ever had and I highly recommend it.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 13, 2020

    Wolf Pen Hunters Camp

    Rustic

    I believe this campground is known as the Wolfpen Hunt Camp on the Bankhead National Forest website. This was basically a forest road with dispersed camping. If there are toilets and water we never saw them. Just off the main road there is a loop and people were camping in the clearing of the loop. We drove further down the forest road and found a clearing near the dead end and set up camp. It was lovely and peaceful but no amenities at all. It is free though and no issues with other people.

  • Trinity W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2019

    TVA-Nature Trail and Recreation Area

    Free Camping on TVA land

    I assumed for a long time that you weren't allowed to camp on the TVA trails, because while there are many hikers and birdwatchers who enjoy the trails, you rarely see anyone camping out there. I learned recently, and confirmed through their website, that you can camp for free on TVA land. It just isn't well advertised. This particular trail is a great area, and there are many little side trails to explore. Plenty of places to make a primitive campsite. Many of the side trails lead to the river. There is even a small beach area down the one that leads along the river to the old train bridge. This trail is rich in history, and there are a lot of plaques telling about certain natural and man made features along the trails. The trails are clean, well-kept, and well-marked. At the trail head and parking area, there is a nice well-kept, clean restroom building with flush toilets. Behind that building, they recently put in a very nice playground and a pavilion with picnic tables. There are not really any ready made campsites with tables or firepits or trash cans, but there are plenty of benches and trash cans along the trails. I highly recommend going to the train bridge. There are also small plaques around some of the plants telling what they are and a little about them. If you want a beautiful, primitive camping area, with nice, fairly modern facilities nearby, this is a great place to go. Also, keep in mind there are several trail heads along this road, and you could potentially start out at any of them, but the particular trail head I mentioned has the best restroom facilities and a wonderful playground. Most of the others only have a parking area.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 21, 2024

    Wolf Pen Hunters Camp

    Good free camping

    Sites were level and clear. A little muddy but it had been raining. No utilities or restrooms but thats to be expected with a free site. Sites are spread out and pretty private. Overall a good free camp site.

  • C
    Jul. 4, 2022

    Boondock Dispersed Camping Alabama

    Remote spot, would recommend

    Easy drive on paved road until you reach the GPS coordinates (I wouldn’t have seen the little gravel road if I hadn’t been looking for it). Take the little road for a mile or so until you reach the circle at the end. We loved it because there was no chance of hearing any cars and the animal noises were fantastic. We were glad to have a bug net — probably a necessity for this site!

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2017

    Wolf Pen Hunters Camp

    Amazing hiking

    This is a free hunters campground located in Sipsey wilderness. The hiking in this area is incredible and makes you feel like you are in another world. We have taken several trips to this area and it is well worth it. The camping is rustic but the sights are worth it. This site is not heavily traveled but has restrooms and water which is nice. Be cautious though to check the hunting seasons if you are planning on hiking though since you want to make sure you can be seen. I would also come prepared with essentials in case the campground itself is closed down for the season and the amenities are not accessible.

  • Dwight L.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 24, 2020

    Boondock Dispersed Camping Alabama

    Great boondock spot for free camping.

    Great spot, close to stores and a lot of trails and such. Nice level clear spot, able to accommodate an overland or few tents setup. Close to the main road. There’s 3 individual sites along this roadway. The first site is located approximately 1/10 mile down on the right and the second site is further at approximately 3/10 miles. The road follows a slow gradual decline leading another 2-300 yards where the graveling leads to the 3rd and final site which is nestled in a nice culdesac area.

  • Rae W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Boondock Dispersed Camping Alabama

    Simple & Peaceful

    Nice little spot out in the forest. Spotted the gravel road and went down a little to the first opening. Pretty decent sized clearing. You can hear cars on the road, but it didn’t bother us. Pretty warm, humid, and buggy this time of year, but cooled off through the night.

    The stars were incredible after the moon went down a bit. Lots of bird sounds especially in the morning. A previous camper had left behind some kindling, which was cool. Ended up having a little cell reception with T Mobile.

Guide to Hartselle

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Hartselle, Alabama, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. This area offers unique spots for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Scenic Retreats for Dispersed Campers

  • The Boondock Dispersed Camping Alabama offers a remote experience with minimal noise, allowing campers to fully immerse themselves in the sounds of nature.
  • At the Painted Bluff Dispersed Campground, you can set up camp along the Tennessee River, providing stunning views and opportunities for kayaking and swimming.
  • For those seeking a peaceful environment, Wolf Pen Hunters Camp features private sites surrounded by nature, perfect for a quiet getaway.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Hartselle

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Unique Spots

  • The McDougal Hunt Camp is a hidden gem for those who enjoy a rustic camping experience without the need for permits.
  • For a more adventurous experience, the Lentzville Road offers easy drive-in access and the chance to explore the surrounding wilderness.
  • Campers looking for a unique experience should visit the Painted Bluff Dispersed Campground, where the stunning views along the river create a memorable backdrop for any camping trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Hartselle, AL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Hartselle, AL is Boondock Dispersed Camping Alabama with a 5-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Hartselle, AL?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Hartselle, AL, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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