Dispersed camping near Pisgah, Alabama centers around several primitive sites set within the Cumberland Plateau region at elevations between 1,100-1,800 feet. This mountainous terrain creates seasonal accessibility challenges, particularly after heavy rainfall when forest service roads become difficult to navigate. Winter campers should prepare for overnight temperatures that frequently drop below freezing between December and February.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed, follow the trailhead from Davis Pond to reach Blowing Wind Falls. "There's a trailhead that goes to blowing wind falls from the campground too," notes one camper who also mentioned fishing opportunities in the same area.
Fishing opportunities: Davis Pond in Prentice Cooper offers bass fishing with multiple catch reports. As one visitor mentioned, "My husband caught several large mouth bass in the pond too (catch and release)." Another camper reported "Caught 4 largemouth bass in about 15 minutes of fishing on the pond, largest being about a 1lb."
Fall foliage viewing: The forests transform with seasonal color changes, particularly during peak autumn months. "We came here to camp among the turning trees one September... The fall colors were off the hook but might be even better in October," reports a camper about Tennessee Wall Camp, where multiple fire pits are scattered throughout a small clearing with "plenty of firewood to collect on site."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: The dispersed nature of campsites throughout the region provides separation from other campers. At Blue Hole Dispersed, one camper described the experience as "So peaceful! A couple of other people there and a little bit of trash, but I picked it up." Another noted it was "a great FREE spot" with good-sized camping areas.
Vehicle accessibility: Despite rough roads, many sites accommodate different camping setups. One visitor to Blue Hole Dispersed reported "We stayed 3 days 2 nights here in our 21' pop up camper with our generator. Road is pretty well maintained, spots are good size, some only large enough for tent/car camping."
Backcountry options: For those seeking deeper wilderness experiences, several areas offer more remote options. "Prentice Cooper WMA is a great place if you're looking to be in the wilderness," writes one reviewer, adding "it looks like you can backcountry camp on the map."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Some areas have restricted access during certain months. At Prentice Cooper, "99% of areas are closed between December and March. Had to turn around and find somewhere else to camp for the night," reports one camper who arrived during closure periods.
Wildlife Management requirements: Hidden Creek Campground and other WMA sites have specific regulations. "Look for the big wooden sign that indicates that it is for public use," advises a camper, noting "GPS will take u to someone's private property next door." At Blue Hole, "Land pass required. No alcohol is permitted. This is a wildlife management area."
Limited facilities: Most sites lack basic amenities. "DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT even think of entering the 'restroom' at Davis Pond. They really should demolish it," warns one camper, emphasizing "there is no USABLE restroom, you are truly roughing it!"
Tips for camping with families
Pack everything needed: Services and stores are scarce near most sites. Regarding the Walls of Jericho Trailhead Campsite, one camper notes "There are minimal places to stock up on necessities along the road so be sure and come equipped." This applies to most dispersed sites in the region.
Emergency planning: Remote locations often lack cellular service. "There is also no cell service so make sure you plan accordingly and have an emergency system in place," advises a Walls of Jericho visitor. At other sites, service varies greatly by location and carrier.
Site selection for kids: Some locations are better suited for families than others. One camper described the Walls of Jericho parking area as having "a few fire rings in the parking lot" but noted "I was not tempted to stay. There was nothing here but a place to park when you go hiking."
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Access to many sites requires careful driving. One visitor to Hidden Creek Campground reported the road has "LOTS OF DEEP POTHOLES. Our truck is pretty high and 4x4 so wasn't too bad for us but a low car may not fair as well." Another advised it's "a little farther off the highway than I wanted to go" but "definitely a solid free campsite."
Dispersed site limitations: Most locations have size restrictions. At Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp, campers reported about 12 spots at the hunters entrance area. For larger vehicles, Blue Hole Dispersed has "a handicap access area for RVs to do disperse camping also an parking for the bluehole."
Stay duration rules: Management areas may have limits on camping periods. One camper at Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp reported inconsistent enforcement, noting staff told them "we had to be gone as long as we've stayed and told another person he had to be gone a month."
