Dispersed camping areas surround the mountains near Apison, Tennessee, particularly in Cherokee National Forest and Cohutta Wilderness. These free camping spots require careful planning as many locations have seasonal closures, limited facilities, and poor cell reception. Most sites follow Forest Service regulations, including temporary occupancy limits of 14 consecutive days in a 30-day period.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Lost Creek Campground has a creek suitable for fishing and shallow wading. According to Scott E., "There are spots that you can swim around in" and Nate H. reports catching "4 largemouth bass in about 15 minutes of fishing on the pond, largest being about a 1lb."
Swimming spots: Clear water swimming can be found at Conasauga River Camp, where Grayce F. notes it's "a very swimmable and warm crystal clear river - very popular with locals, and I imagine would be packed on weekends." The site is "accessible easily from a 2WD just off of a long gravel road."
Hiking trails: The Cohutta Wilderness offers extensive hiking options from Jack's River Falls Trail Backcountry Group Camp. Renee B. describes it as a "great group campsite not far from Jack's River Falls," where you can "fall asleep to the rushing waters of Jack's River." The trail presents a challenge but rewards hikers with scenic views.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location of Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area offers exceptional night sky viewing. Tyler J. calls it "one of my favorite types of spots: remote, little light pollution, and deep in the mountains... Go here on a new moon night in the summer and you're sure to have a great night of uninterrupted beauty!"
Peaceful seclusion: For those seeking quiet, SongBird Trail Camp in Cohutta WMA delivers tranquility. John B. says, "This area will speak for itself once you arrive. It's very peaceful and calming, beautiful hikes, pretty nature, and great memories!"
Wildlife viewing: The mountains surrounding Apison offer chances to see native wildlife, though campers should practice proper food storage. Lori H. warns at Prentice Cooper State Forest that "this is a wildlife management area, so if you are not hunting, might want to avoid it during hunting season."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many dispersed camping areas have specific closure periods. Raymond H. notes about Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed, "99% of areas are closed between December and March. Had to turn around and find somewhere else to camp for the night."
Road conditions: Forest service roads can be challenging, especially after rain. While describing the Ball Field area, Roy B. explains the "rough gravel forest service roads are best traveled by a higher clearance vehicle. 2x2 usually works ok though. It takes patience and a while to get here."
Noise considerations: Despite remote locations, some areas have unexpected noise sources. Tucker K. reports at Prentice Cooper that "Night time is great but gunshots started at 6:30 at a nearby gun range and dirt bikes started hitting the roads not much later."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots for kids: The Conasauga River offers family-friendly swimming areas. One camper notes there are "about 5 or 6 good spots" along the river that are "very swimmable and warm." Bring river walking shoes for the best experience.
Age-appropriate hiking: Jack's River Falls Trail offers challenging terrain that works well for teens. Anna R. shares it's "a tough trail but good for teens looking to challenge themselves in the back country. The views are amazing with rock falls."
Safety considerations: Wildlife awareness is important when camping with children. Roy B. warns that "There are bears in the area and they love food. A fed bear is a dead bear-please don't leave any food out and scare them away if they come around."
Tips from RVers
Accessibility limitations: Most dispersed sites have size and access restrictions. At Blue Hole Dispersed, Ava R. reports, "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."
Campsite selection: When arriving at Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area, Gabrielle D. advises, "We had an SUV but I saw a handful of sedans that made it up. We got to the group site at 1:20 or so and there was only one person at first but slowly people start trickling in."
Generator usage: Free camping near Apison generally has few restrictions on generator use in suitable areas. At Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA, campers report using generators without issues, but always follow posted regulations and be considerate of other campers by limiting run times.
