Dispersed camping options near Andersonville, Tennessee span a range of primitive sites across rugged terrain in both Tennessee and Kentucky. The region features elevations ranging from 900 to 1,500 feet with moderate temperatures averaging 55-75°F during peak camping seasons from April through October. Most sites lack developed facilities and require preparation for self-sufficient stays in remote woodland settings.
What to do
Waterfront activities: At Trace Branch Dispersed site, campers can enjoy creek-side relaxation with easy water access. "We took our portable firepit and sat by the creek for a beautiful evening," notes one visitor to the Rock Creek Road location. The site features one picnic table and fire pit in a small but scenic setting.
Winter camping opportunities: The Andersonville region offers year-round camping for prepared visitors. A Trace Branch camper reported, "Visited here in the middle of January with all the snow and I was hot tent camping. You can only set up your tent on the designated tent pad, luckily we had heavy duty stakes that could get through the ground. The entire river was frozen over and ponds were frozen too."
Paddling expeditions: Calderwood Lake Primitive campground offers paddle-in camping with hiking connections. "Unlike the other camp sites we've seen, camp site one doesn't have any picnic tables, which is the only downside to it. You are right in the little Slickrock cover with waterfalls as white noise," explains one camper who accessed the site by canoe.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Redbird Boat Ramp provides free camping near Andersonville with minimal crowds. "It's nice and private. Nothing special there is a boat ramp. Plenty of space for a couple RVs. The sky was beautiful," reports a visitor who appreciated the secluded setting approximately ten miles from Interstate 75.
Multiple site options: Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1 offers several camping possibilities along one road. "There are three dispersed camp sites along this road. We stayed at the first and largest of the three. This first site has room for two groups," mentions a camper who found adequate space for multiple parties.
Wildlife viewing: Wildlife management areas provide habitat for numerous species. A camper at Bi-Color Campground noted, "This area is beautiful almost all times of the year! Plenty of wildlife and lots of shady areas." Several visitors mention hearing wildlife sounds at night, particularly during spring and fall seasons.
What you should know
Hunting season impacts: Seasonal hunting activities significantly affect camping conditions. A November visitor to Bi-Color Campground observed, "Rifle season starts Nov 20. I'm 10 days early, and was a bit surprised just how many hunters are already here. I feel like I'm the only solo woman here, also seem to be the only Van lifer. Lots of RVs."
Road conditions: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. A camper reported about Bi-Color Campground, "Dirt road, washboard out was north to Rock Creek campground steep downhill grade narrow. My opinion not for 5th wheel. No cell for miles."
Trash management: Camper reports indicate inconsistent maintenance at some sites. "There were trash on a few of them," notes one Bi-Color visitor, while another at Trace Branch mentioned, "Lots of beer bottles left over and shattered so I had to pick up the trash before letting my dog out."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Slickrock Trail near Calderwood Lake offers natural water features. "If you enjoy hiking campsite one is right on the slickrock trail and if you take it about 1.5 miles you'll reach Wolfcat falls which has a big swimming hole at the bottom," reports a camper who explored the area with family.
Flat terrain considerations: For families with small children, seek out level sites. One Calderwood Lake visitor noted, "Unlike the other sites this one is also very flat which is best for walking," when describing campsite one in the Slickrock cover area.
Security concerns: Most dispersed camping areas near Andersonville have minimal issues with theft. A winter camper at Trace Branch shared, "We left our site unattended for hours to check out the streams and rivers and nothing was missing."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Bi-Color Campground accommodates larger vehicles with adequate separation. "The spots are pretty spacious but there's no privacy," notes one visitor. Another camper observed, "This camp is perfect for the fam as it can accommodate RV sized vehicles."
Ground conditions: Weather significantly affects site usability. A Bi-Color visitor warned, "Only word of caution is that the ground can get a bit muddy, so try to find something dry." Free dispersed camping near Andersonville requires appropriate timing and site selection for RVs, particularly during rainy periods.
Cattle encounters: Unexpected wildlife includes domesticated animals. A Bi-Color camper reported, "Also a random herd of cattle strolls through every now and again." RVers should secure food items and be prepared for livestock encounters in some camping areas.
