Best Dispersed Camping near Athens, TN

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Athens, TN is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Athens is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Athens, TN. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Athens, Tennessee (33)

    1. Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)

    9 Reviews
    Spring City, TN
    20 miles
    Website

    "The campground is very easily accessible and has no facilities other than garbage bins."

    "Felt safe overall."

    2. Lost Creek - Cherokee NF

    9 Reviews
    Reliance, TN
    22 miles
    Website

    "The lost cove campground can be found deep in the wilderness of the Cherokee National Forest outside of Benton, TN. The campground is operated and maintained by the USFS."

    "We chose a spot next to the creek. Was clear and flowing due to a lot of rain the few days before we arrived. Sites had concrete picnic tables and a pad. We had to clean ours when we arrived."

    3. Citico Creek Area

    6 Reviews
    Tallassee, TN
    28 miles
    Website

    "This campground is great for being right next to great day hikes and easy access to Citico Creek, which was just across the gravel road from our site."

    "No hookups, but a majority of the 14 sites are on the creek itself. Could not recommend Citico Creek more."

    4. Goforth Creek Campground A

    2 Reviews
    Reliance, TN
    26 miles
    Website

    "This campsite is a backcountry site located along the Goforth Creek trail and is the closest to the parking area. It is also the largest of the sites with room for several tents."

    5. Sourwood Campground

    4 Reviews
    Coker Creek, TN
    30 miles
    Website

    "You could pretty much drive by this place without giving it a second thought. I am glad I didn't. We got there late after 1pm. I was afraid that we were out of luck."

    "Google maps brought me to a spot 30 miles away"

    7. Goforth Creek Campground B

    1 Review
    Reliance, TN
    26 miles
    Website

    "This is another large campsite that sits further up the creek and is pretty easy to find from the main trail. It is more open than site A but also a good option."

    9. Lake Santeetlah Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Croatan National Forest, NC
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 479-6431

    "Campground Review:

    The Nantahala National Forest, due south of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is chock full of free semi-developed campsites – some are drive-up, some are boat-up, and"

    "We got a spot right on the lake. It was nice and quiet. The view was great for watching the sunset. I think there was a pit toilet but we didn’t check it out."

    10. Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

    12 Reviews
    Robbinsville, NC
    43 miles

    "Each has a picnic table, fire pit/grill, and level area for 1-2 tents (a few can accommodate more if you’re ambitious), and lake views (most have lake access if you want to put in a kayak or canoe)."

    "The only downside to this campground is that for half of the sites the parking is across the small access road. This would be most ideal for tent camping."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Athens, TN

78 Reviews of 33 Athens Campgrounds



Guide to Athens

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Athens, Tennessee, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and outdoor adventures without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of spots perfect for those looking to escape into the wilderness.

Dispersed campers should check out Lost Creek - Cherokee NF

  • Located in Reliance, TN, Lost Creek - Cherokee NF is a popular choice for its picturesque creek views and friendly atmosphere.
  • The site features picnic tables and fire pits, making it ideal for evening gatherings under the stars.
  • With no permit required and a first-come, first-served policy, it’s a great option for spontaneous camping trips.

Top activities while free camping near Athens

  • Fishing and hiking are abundant around Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), where visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the water's edge.
  • The area is known for its beautiful views and spacious sites, perfect for setting up camp and exploring the surrounding nature.
  • Be sure to pack out what you pack in, as maintaining the natural beauty of this spot is essential for future visitors.

Scenic attractions for dispersed campers

  • The Citico Creek Area offers a peaceful retreat right by the river, making it a fantastic spot for those who appreciate the sound of flowing water.
  • This area is well-suited for hiking and exploring, with several trails nearby that lead to stunning vistas and wildlife sightings.
  • Campers can enjoy the solitude and privacy that comes with dispersed camping, as sites are spaced out and provide a true escape into nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Athens, TN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Athens, TN is Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) with a 3.6-star rating from 9 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Athens, TN?

TheDyrt.com has all 33 dispersed camping locations near Athens, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.