Best Dispersed Camping near Blountville, TN
Searching for a dispersed campsite near Blountville? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Tennessee camping adventure.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Blountville, TN (15)
1. Hidden Valley WMA
Willis, Virginia2 Reviews•9 Photos•3 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
2. Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area
Butler, Tennessee2 Reviews•9 Photos•62 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
3. Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
Linville Falls, North Carolina12 Reviews•34 Photos•571 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Dispersed
- Market
4. Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites
Damascus, Virginia5 Reviews•15 Photos•230 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
5. Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry
Roan Mountain, Tennessee3 Reviews•21 Photos•93 SavesFor additional details: https://www.outdoorproject.com/united-states/tennessee/carvers-gap-grassy-ridge-bald
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
9. Scales Trailhead Basecamp
Troutdale, Virginia3 Reviews•8 Photos•20 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Toilets
10. Little Tumbling Creek
Saltville, Virginia2 Reviews•2 Photos•13 SavesYou may disperse camp on Forest Service lands that do not have closures or restrictions. Dispersed camping is not allowed in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, or trailheads. Drive on existing roads and, when car-camping, keep your campsite within 150 feet of a road.
If you can, pick a site that has been used before to minimize your impact in the forest. If there is no existing campsite where you are going, then follow Leave No Trace guidelines:
Camp on bare soil, if possible, to avoid damaging plants. Do not camp within 200 feet of any water source. Avoid camping in the middle of a clearing or meadow; keep your campsite less visible so that other visitors can enjoy the views. Do not try to level or dig trenches in the ground at your campsite. Pick a tent site that is already level with good drainage.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
Recent Dispersed Reviews in Blountville
31 Reviews of 15 Blountville Campgrounds
Mateo M.
Guide
Scales Trailhead Basecamp
Fun, adventure, friendship
My partner and I took our dog on a quick impromptu weekend trip, we drove about 2 hours. Once reaching the off road trail my partner got nervous, feeling as if our Forrester wouldn’t make it up. My advice… come prepared. I got. Flat on the way up and was able to make it to my campsite. The campground was well kept, well placed, not to mention the next morning part of the crew that maintains the area helped us fix our flat. Some of the other campers introduced themselves and were extremely friendly and helpful. Some had been camping there for 40yrs. The fire pits are well built and there is plenty of kindling and tinder to find right off the trails. If you’re comping at night time and want a fire bring a starter log. This time of year the wood was a little damp as we arrived late. Other than that bring plenty of water there are creeks and running water around but no running water at the sites, if you’re a must have shower person bring a shower bag. The sights were magical and the salt lick for the ponies wasn’t far so if you’re looking for a weekend getaway with great sites, a little adventure and a whole lot of beauty this campground is for you. This will definitely become a frequent for my partner and I
- Harley G.Guide
Whitetop
Absolutely stunning!
Absolutely stunning views! I was a little sketched out going up as it was my first time driving up a mountain like that, but it really wasn’t bad. Watching the sunset was spectacular, then being able to star gaze.
- Betsy W.Guide
Hidden Valley WMA
Great peaceful place
Dispersed camping free permit with Va wildlife, fishing, or use permit up to 14 days. Porta Jon available at campground and boat dock. Plenty of dead wood for fires. Trash cans available. Rocks for fire pits and no tables.
- Betsy W.Guide
Little Tumbling Creek
Beautiful and peaceful
Laurel bed lake at top is beautiful. Waterfalls on way up and good fishing along the way in tumbling creek. Flat field area for camping on way. Several spots by creek for van or tent camping.
Jay N.
ScoutScales Trailhead Basecamp
Isolated & wonderful!
We've been going to Scales for several years now, & it's one of the few places we keep revisiting! Yes, the road in is rocky (& not short...probly 45 mins from the road to the campground), but anything with Subaru Outback ground clearance will be fine.
The campground itself is great! It's right on the AT, so there are lots of through hikers that you'll see stop in for a night. That also means that there's lots of great hiking options! Our favorite parts are the beautiful views, wild ponies, & it's (usually) relatively quiet!
Additionally, there are a lot of fire pits& there are pit toilets.
Jon M.ScoutScales Trailhead Basecamp
Serious off road capability needed
The road in is...."rocky". High clearance 4wd needed. Not ADV friendly, unless you're very adventurous. Access by horseback would be my #1 pick.
Zach C.ScoutLittle Tumbling Creek
Secluded Place
Camp next to a quiet bumbling creek with beautiful scenery.
Glennie V.Scout
Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites
Be Aware Of Your Surroundings
First time trying dispersed-camping and was super excited originally! We followed the coordinations and pulled into an off-road spot. Initially we felt pretty comfortable riding through the national park. However when we arrived to the site there was someone already there. We didn't think much at first, until we realized what they were doing in their car: It was a man and female. They appeared to be smoking meth and had a distinctive smell coming from their truck. They were making incoherent noises and could barely hold their heads up. They then pulled out a gun and started shooting at the signs near the road. Needless to say we quickly packed our gear and left. It was definitely scary and not the best encounter for first time dispersed camping. Thankfully I was with my partner and felt safe with him. If I was alone, I'm unsure how safe I would've felt, as a traveling/camping solo-female. We were able to find another dispersed campground down the road about 15-20 mins alongside the road. We also saw more people car-camping and doing the same: so overall we felt better about the situation. However, I'm not sure if I'd recommend this spot or go back again: Be aware of your surroundings and always carry something on you to protect yourself!
- Sara S.
Traveler
Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
Breath Taking views
The road up to the campsites is pretty steep and bumpy. Wouldn't recommend a car but saw several go through. There are a handful of sites on either side of the road. Some have steep drop offs off the side of the mountain so be careful. A few group sized sites with misc trails to wonder. Very quiet and serene but only 30 minutes from town.
Sagar B.ScoutWashington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites
Good safe spot
Right next to the road, so first time campers would feel safe. The creek’s sound is pleasant. No network at all.
Arthur D.ScoutLinville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
Good rest
Very primitive but a great and free place to get some dark pea e and quiet
- JJohn R.Guide
Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
Easy
It was very easy to get a spot but there weren’t great views and there is not much to do
Erik C.GuideWashington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites
Great little spot near the creek
Overall this was a great little spot right off the road. The sound of the creek was lovely all night. Only downside was the spot I set up camp was very close to the road and headlights from passing cars would light up the spot. However the road was quiet most of the night. There second spot close by and set a little further back that would get lit up by headlights as cars passed. Really lovely morning hike around the nearby lake more than made up for it though.
Raquella 🥸.TravelerLinville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
Off of NC-105
We drove up on a Saturday and it wasn’t too crowded, definitely people around but plenty of open campsites. There were a couple of good washouts in the road, so 4WD or AWD would be recommended but maybe not required. Several good spots to pull in with a vehicle. We found a big spot but it was right next to the road (most of the campsites were), but it was still quiet enough - only one car that drove by at night.
We had a view of Table Rock and plenty of space for the two of us and our dog.
3 stars because of the proximity of the campsites to the road, as well as many of the campsites needing to be picked up after the last campers (we checked out at least 10 other spots before deciding where we wanted to stay).
Overall, a nice visit!
- SScotty H.Scout
Linville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
So very useful
I love how they get me where I'm going
Kelly G.
Legend
Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry
Life 360 - a break in the Green Tunnel!
This was truly one of my most memorable campsites I’ve ever stayed at. After a glorious hike up Roan Mountain and back down I crossed the road and hiked out along the three balds and found a few lonely trees to hang a hammock between. The Appalachian Trail is frequently referred to as The Green Tunnel because of the amazing wormhole effect of trees, rhododendron and other vegetation that shroud your views. But not here! There was an evening thunderstorm over an adjacent mountain, a beautiful sunset, a full moon to howl at, and a sunrise that can’t be beat. The hike back was in and out of the clouds. Pure bliss!
Pro Tip : Please do not skin or scar trees. Bring your own firewood.
- Matthew C.Scout
Whitetop
Dispersed Camping
Fantastic views. The wind is killer. Very little Verizon and AT&T signal. Gorgeous sunsets.
Carissa D.GuideGrassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry
Spectacular Views!
It’s a short hike up from Carver Gap. There are several spots on the bald to pitch your tent. There are not too many spots to gather firewood. A few sites already have rock pits made for you. Super windy so dress appropriately!
- AAndrewScout
Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry
Mountain Views
Beautiful 6000’ bald off the AT and along the state line between North Carolina and Tennessee, plenty of places to pitch a tent. Firewood is scarce so bring a lantern and cook stove.
Sophia L.Scout
Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area
Get what you pay for
Pros: Free, many sites with water access for kayaking/fishing, fire rings, parking lot close to sites. Cons: Lots of road noise-- you're sitting in a valley bordered by highway on 3 sides, and the echo is serious. Trash everywhere making some sites unusable. Lots of poison ivy.
So, if it's worth it to you for a free spot go ahead. You'll basically be camping in someone else's backyard, there are several residents.
Noah S.TravelerLinville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
Quick Stop for the night
It was very packed lots of people. Seemed very beautiful except the only spot we found was on a hill and it was very rocky but it was good enough for the night.
Clayton S.GuideWhitetop
Whitetop Mountain
Nice spot to pitch a tent or for car camping. Whitetop mountain has some of the best views in VA and is very popular for watching sunsets.
Peter H.GuideLinville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
Isolated and gorgeous
Primitive campsites for tent/ENO camping. Which is personally my favorite kind of camping. It’s simple and has breathtaking views
Alexandra T.GuideWashington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites
Beautiful, Quiet, Off-Grid
Loved this spot - we got lucky and parked right next to a swimming hole, had a gorgeous swim and enjoyed our time. No service, off-grid, really lovely.
Julie L.
RangerLinville Gorge Wilderness Dispersed Camping--Western Section, NC 128 he
Good Times at the Gorge!
These are pretty decent sites. You just pull off the road, set up and enjoy the camping experience.
We hiked down to the gorge and also enjoyed the dispersed camping available right along the riverside, which was pretty cool but... that hike back up is a DOOZY especially with a pack on. I would recommend it. The payoff of the views is highly worth any trail difficulties.
This was a really clean, well respected area. I liked to see that most other campers were clearly doing their part to Leave no Trace.
Shari G.LegendWashington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites
Creekside Camping
At the intersection of the North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia state lines, sits this national forest which offers multiple dispersed camping areas along Bear Creek. Opportunities for hiking, cycling, fishing, and paddling are abundant. The Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail are just minutes away, as well as some easy whitewater paddling fun on the White Top Laurel Creek.
Most of campsites are large, very shaded, along a beautiful treelined road, and surrounded by mountains. There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or even pit toilet, so come prepared. The only major problem is that folks tend to leave a ton of trash around, so we often spend about 20-30 minutes cleaning these sites upon arrival. Please Leave No Trace!
Our site had a good fire ring, and was on the edge of a creek that we could filter water from with ease. We stayed at this camp for 3 weeks during the pandemic shutdown and it was a perfect place to ride out this crazy storm and decompress from some anxiety.
The closest town is Damascus, VA, about 12 miles away. The town is small, but draws thousands of tourists each year who are either hiking the Appalachian Trail or cycling the famous Virginia Creeper bike path. It is equipped with a decent sized grocery store, gas, and couple of restaurants, and a cute downtown area. There is absolutely no cell service at this camp, you have to go into town or hike a local mountain to get service up high.
- Shari G.Legend
Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area
Beautiful & Free but Lots of Road Noise
Just on the edge of Watauga Lake sits this free dispersed camping area that is perfect for tent camping only. This is a park outside the gate and walk your gear in type of place, some bring your IKEA bags or a wagon. Opportunities for fishing and boating are abundant. Most of campsites are large, very shaded, and have at least one fire ring. A handful of sites have direct water access, and are more private.
There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or even pit toilet, so come prepared. The only major problem is that folks tend to leave a ton of trash around, so we spent about an hour cleaning the entire campground. Please Leave No Trace! Also, we would not recommend camping here on a busy weekend because the road is very close and the trucks are very loud!
The nearest town is Butler, which is small but offers the basics such as groceries and gas.
Guide to Blountville
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Blountville, Tennessee, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the great outdoors without the hassle of traditional campgrounds.
Top Activities While Free Camping Near Blountville
- Enjoy fishing and kayaking at the Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area, where many sites provide direct water access for your aquatic adventures.
- Hike into the scenic Hidden Valley WMA and take in the peaceful surroundings, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
- Experience the stunning views and hiking opportunities at Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry, where you can pitch your tent and soak in the breathtaking mountain scenery.
Unique Attractions for Dispersed Campers
- Visit the picturesque Whitetop for incredible sunset views and stargazing opportunities, making it a must-see for any camping trip.
- Explore the nearby Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites, which offers a variety of outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, all while enjoying the freedom of dispersed camping.
- Check out the serene Unaka Mountain Overlook for a drive-in experience that allows you to easily access stunning vistas and hiking trails.
Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Little Stony Creek
- The Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area is a popular spot for those who appreciate free camping, with ample sites for setting up tents and enjoying campfires.
- Be prepared for some road noise, as this area is bordered by highways, but the trade-off is easy access to water activities and a variety of camping spots.
- Remember to pack out what you pack in, as many visitors have noted the presence of trash in the area, making it essential to practice Leave No Trace principles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Blountville, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Blountville, TN is Hidden Valley WMA with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Blountville, TN?
TheDyrt.com has all 15 dispersed camping locations near Blountville, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.