Dispersed camping options near Bell Buckle, Tennessee extend across public lands in the Cumberland Plateau region, with most sites situated between 800-1,200 feet elevation. The area experiences humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal for primitive camping. Free camping near Bell Buckle requires traveling at least 50 miles from town, as Middle Tennessee offers limited public land access compared to other regions of the state.
What to do
Hiking trails: The Walls of Jericho Trailhead provides access to challenging backcountry trails with significant elevation changes. "The Walls of Jehrico trail offers a handful of first-come/first-serve primitive campsites set adjacent to two separate water sources (streams). Any equipment must be carried in and out which makes for a perfect backpacking experience," notes Blake C. about Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite.
Canoe camping: J. Percy Priest Lake allows water access to remote camping spots with shorter paddling distances. Brandon mentions about Goose Island - J. Percy Priest Lake, "This is a really great place to camp if you have a way to boat out to the island. We use a canoe since it's only a quarter mile or so paddle."
Base camp exploration: Use the trailhead sites for day hiking without carrying full gear. "The trailhead campsite is a short walk from the parking lot, but makes for a great basecamp for exploring the area," shares Steve V. about his experience at Walls of Jericho. "This site and trailhead serves both the Walls of Jericho trail and the Bear Den Point Loop Trail."
What campers like
Convenience: Some campers appreciate the accessibility of sites near parking areas. "This site is 3 separate clearings near the trailhead and parking with small fire pits. They work in a pinch if you get here late and don't want to hike in or if you want to car camp and hike to the falls without gear," explains Asher K. about Walls of Jericho Trailhead Camp.
Spacious sites: The open areas accommodate multiple tents at certain locations. According to Steve V., "The campsite is level and large enough to accommodate many tents. There are also trees that would be suitable for hammock camping. The site is on the edge of an overlook of the canyon and has multiple fire rings if there are multiple groups there."
Water access: Streams and lake access add practical value to camping experiences. Asher K. notes, "Be aware that you will have to go a little ways down the trail to find water." This practical information helps campers plan accordingly when staying at primitive sites.
What you should know
Supply limitations: The remote nature of free camping near Bell Buckle means services are sparse. "There are minimal places to stock up on necessities along the road so be sure and come equipped," advises Blake C. This reinforces the need for thorough preparation when visiting these dispersed camping areas.
Cell service issues: Communication can be unreliable in these remote areas. Blake C. warns about Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite: "There is also no cell service so make sure you plan accordingly and have an emergency system in place." While this contradicts another review mentioning Verizon coverage, it's safer to assume limited connectivity.
Wildlife encounters: Local wildlife may approach campsites, particularly at night. Brandon cautions about Goose Island: "The only down side (at least when we were there) is the raccoons. They will come up really close at night begging for food. They're harmless though."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose locations based on hiking ability when traveling with children. William Andrew C. advises about hammock options: "The only decent spot for hammocks is the little campsite that is right in front of the parking lot... This site is OK if you need to be near the parking lot or don't want to hike your gear in and out. Otherwise, you're way better off going down to one of the other sites."
Facility awareness: Understand the limited facilities available at primitive sites. "This is primitive camping so no bathhouse, but there is a porta-john in the trailhead parking lot," explains Steve V., providing important information for families needing restroom access.
Cleanliness concerns: Some dispersed camping areas near Bell Buckle have maintenance issues. "Quite at night, but the primitive camping area is overgrown, and I have seen a lot of trash in the woods," reports dolphmike about their experience at the Walls of Jericho Trailhead Campsite.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most dispersed camping near Bell Buckle isn't suitable for RVs or trailers. Kevin C. shares his disappointment: "Read that there was a drive-in camp site at this location. Upon arrival, we found a parking lot with a fence all around it. There were a few fire rings in the parking lot." This highlights the need to research thoroughly before attempting to access these areas with larger vehicles.
Alternative considerations: The limited free camping options near Bell Buckle may require RVers to consider established campgrounds instead of dispersed sites. Most reviews indicate these areas are primarily suited for tent camping with minimal vehicle access beyond parking areas.
