Dispersed camping opportunities near Valley Head, Alabama extend through mountainous terrain with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,500 feet. The Cumberland Plateau provides multiple free camping options across north Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. These primitive sites typically experience hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while winter nights often drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite serves as a strategic basecamp for the challenging 6-mile round-trip hike down to the amphitheater-like rock formations. "The campsite is level and large enough to accommodate many tents. There are also trees that would be suitable for hammock camping," notes Steve V., who recommends this location for those wanting easy access to both the main trail and Bear Den Point Loop.
Fishing opportunities: Davis Pond in Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed offers productive fishing without permits. Camper Nate H. reports, "Caught 4 largemouth bass in about 15 minutes of fishing on the pond, largest being about a 1lb." The pond area provides a central location with multiple primitive sites scattered around its perimeter.
Cave exploration: Crockford-Pigeon Mountain area contains several caves near established campsites. "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... It's right down the road from blue hole and Ellison Cave trail," writes Ava R. about the camping areas, noting their proximity to popular geological features.
What campers like
Solitude and space: The Tennessee Wall Camp provides secluded sites with established fire rings. Suzie K. describes, "There is a parking lot right off the road after a fun ~30 minute drive through residential roads right on the water, then sites with fire pits are scattered throughout a small clearing. Plenty of firewood to collect on site." Many campers appreciate the ability to find isolated sites even during busier weekends.
No-cost camping options: Multiple reviewers highlight the absence of fees at numerous sites. At Hidden Creek Campground, Robyn W. notes, "Overall we enjoyed this stay! GPS wants to take you to where the road dead ends but the actual turn off is before the end of the road on the right where the big wood sign is." This free camping area provides multiple primitive sites along forest roads.
Dark night skies: The distance from major cities creates exceptional stargazing conditions. Arden S. reports about Prentice Cooper, "The forest is beautiful but also huge. You can definitely get lost driving around or hiking. If you're looking for a quiet place to camp near Chattanooga this is it." The limited light pollution allows for excellent astronomical viewing on clear nights.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Wildlife management areas frequently restrict camping during hunting seasons. Raymond H. cautions about Prentice Cooper, "This is a beautiful WMA area with tons of offshoots along a service road for camping, but please note, 99% of areas are closed between December and March. Had to turn around and find somewhere else to camp for the night."
Navigation challenges: Many camping areas lack clear signage or have inaccurate GPS coordinates. Heidi H. warns about Blue Hole Dispersed- Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA, "Look for the big wooden sign that indicates that it is for public use," noting that GPS directions often lead to private property boundaries instead of public access points.
Land passes required: Some areas require specific permits despite being free. Sarah H. explains, "Land pass required. No alcohol is permitted. This is a wildlife management area. The camp sites are first come, first serve. They are free. Only 2 sites with tables. If you like dispersed camping you'll probably enjoy it."
Tips for camping with families
Best hammock options: For families with hammock setups, select sites carefully. William Andrew C. advises about Walls of Jericho, "The only decent spot for hammocks is the little campsite that is right in front of the parking lot... At the site directly in front of the parking lot, you can really only get two hammocks, unless you want to stack your hammocks vertically." Tennessee Wall Camp offers better hammock options with Brian W. noting it's "Great for hammocks and tents."
Restroom considerations: Few sites offer functioning toilet facilities. At Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp, basic toilet facilities exist near the hunter check station. However, Lori H. warns about conditions elsewhere: "DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT even think of entering the 'restroom' at Davis Pond. They really should demolish it. Completely disgusting. And creepy."
Wildlife awareness: Ticks and other insects are common during warmer months. Richard C. recounts, "Stepped out just to see the clearance on a turn and got in with 4 ticks on me." Parents should perform regular tick checks and bring appropriate insect repellent, especially from April through October.
Tips from RVers
Road condition alerts: Many access routes contain challenging sections. Patrick R. from Hidden Creek notes, "There are a few big potholes in the road to watch out for but there is also another spot down the mountain down the other trail that's not as bad and easier to get to." High-clearance vehicles perform better on most access roads.
Generator policies: Rules vary by location regarding generator use. At Blue Hole, Michael M. explains, "No electricity or running water but the camp sites are pretty good. An the do have a handicap access area for rvs to do disperse camping also an parking for the bluehole." The handicap-accessible sites allow for larger vehicles with generators in some locations.
Limited maneuvering space: Most dispersed sites have tight turnarounds. One camper reported, "We went right which goes up, passed an open gate followed the road LOTS OF DEEP POTHOLES. The road then opens up to a four way, we kept going straight, followed the road down and then came to three sites all empty." Larger RVs should scout sites before attempting access.
