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Best Dispersed Camping near Maryville, TN

70 Reviews

Several dispersed camping areas exist in the Cherokee National Forest near Maryville, Tennessee, with free sites located around Citico Creek and surrounding water bodies. The region contains multiple primitive camping zones spanning across Tennessee and North Carolina borders, including sites at Calderwood Lake, Lake Santeetlah, and along Citico Creek. These areas are predominantly on U.S. Forest Service land, with campsites situated alongside creeks, lakeshores, and forest roads.

Access to many dispersed sites requires slow navigation on unpaved forest roads. Most areas feature dirt or gravel approaches, with some locations requiring high-clearance vehicles. Sites at Calderwood Lake are accessible only by boat or hiking trail, with primitive conditions and no facilities. Other areas like Citico Creek provide drive-up access with minimal amenities. None of these dispersed sites offer drinking water, electricity, or sewer hookups. Campers must bring all necessary supplies and pack out all waste following Leave No Trace principles.

These primitive camping areas provide solitude and natural surroundings, particularly at lakeside locations. Lake Santeetlah dispersed sites feature flat tent pads, fire rings, and picnic tables despite being free. "The views of the lake are breathtaking, especially in the early morning," noted one camper about Lake Santeetlah. Sites vary considerably in size and privacy levels. Citico Creek campsites are "extremely spread out, allowing for private camping," according to a visitor, though some reviews mention trash concerns. Calderwood Lake primitive sites require more effort to reach but reward campers with pristine surroundings and waterfall views. Wildlife sightings and swimming opportunities enhance the primitive camping experience throughout the region.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Maryville, Tennessee (20)

    1. Calderwood Lake Primitive campground

    3 Reviews
    Croatan National Forest, NC
    19 miles

    "You are right in the little slickrock cover with waterfalls as white noise. unlike the other sites this one is also very flat which is best for walking. if you enjoy hiking campsite one is right on the"

    "If you are willing to bring everything with you, pack everything out, and paddle multiple miles on a nonmotorized finger lake, this is this place for you!"

    2. Citico Creek Area

    6 Reviews
    Tallassee, TN
    21 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."

    3. Lake Santeetlah Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Croatan National Forest, NC
    26 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."

    4. Lake Santeelah Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Robbinsville, NC
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 257-4200

    "I was hoping to car camp a little closer to NOC but not in a campground but this is the closest I could find in February. I would definitely stay here again!"

    "GPS coordinates got me exactly to where I wanted to go. Lots of twists and turns going up the dragon with beautiful scenery of the trees changing colors in late October."

    5. Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

    14 Reviews
    Robbinsville, NC
    30 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."

    6. Harold Parrish Lower Camp - Backcountry

    1 Review
    Croatan National Forest, NC
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 479-6431

    "The hike in is quite difficult. we boated into slickrock cove off of Calderwood lake and walked from there to the sites. which was only about 1.5 miles. so a lot easier than the whole 13.5 mile hike."

    7. Sourwood Campground

    4 Reviews
    Coker Creek, TN
    32 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"

    8. Citico Creek

    Be the first to review!
    Tallassee, TN
    21 miles

    9. Beach Creek Camp

    Be the first to review!
    Croatan National Forest, NC
    22 miles

    10. Lost Creek - Cherokee NF

    9 Reviews
    Reliance, TN
    48 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."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Maryville, TN

113 Photos of 20 Maryville Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Maryville, TN

70 Reviews of 20 Maryville Campgrounds

  • Kaylee D.
    Apr. 4, 2021

    Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

    Absolutely gorgeous!

    Wow! Amazing primitive campsites! 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). Sites are so spread out it feels like you’re the only one on the lake! Most parking next to campsites could fit camper van or tiny trailer and at the end of the road there is a turn around space if needed; however every site has steps down to the level area (L9 has the longest straight down hill to the lake), so you won’t be parking right next to the site if that is a problem...it wasn’t for me). Just drive carefully( lots of big potholes and blind curves)! Overall, a beautiful area to set up camp (up to 14 days)! I didn’t want to leave.

  • Natalie R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 9, 2024

    Lake Santeelah Dispersed

    Quiet, nice spaces, and clean!

    Such a great find! I was hoping to car camp a little closer to NOC but not in a campground but this is the closest I could find in February. I would definitely stay here again! Very quiet and clean and the sites are very well laid out and maintained! No hook ups of any kind but it’s worth it! Highway Patrol and Park Rangers patrol pretty frequently so I felt really safe as a solo female. I still took all the safety precautions but didn’t feel as necessary as some.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 27, 2021

    Siler Bald Trail Shelter TR 373

    Trail Shelter along the Appalachian Trail

    Siler Bald is not to be confused with Silers Bald, which borders the NC/TN state line in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Siler Bald is actually in the Nantahala National Forest and is close to Wayah Bald along the Appalachian Trail. The shelter is aptly named after the adjacent mountain bald. I first went to Siler Bald many years ago but did not go to the trail shelter. This second time, I did go to the trail shelter, which is about nine-tenths of a mile past the Siler Bald summit if you are hiking north on the Appalachian Trail. If you are hiking from Wayah Bald, it is a little over three and a half miles. Since this is a trail shelter, it does not have electrical hookups. You will need to take a water filtration system for fresh water. Instead of searching for firewood, we used my old Coleman stove for dinner. Surprisingly, there were no other groups in the shelter the night we stayed there. The best things about this trail shelter are its proximity to the Appalachian Trail, the quietness you’ll experience since it is away from major highways, and its proximity to the Siler Bald summit. The summit provides a fantastic 360 degree view since it is a grassy bald, but it is a steep climb from the base to the summit. This is not an RV campground, and you do have to pack everything in(and out). You cannot go to the store to get supplies without hiking a long way, so be prepared. Overall, I loved it because of its peace and solitude.

  • Amin A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2023

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    Better than I expected

    So we weren't sure what we would end up finding here. I will say that there are a lot of places to camp, many many many options away from the porta potties. If you get within about 20-30 feet of those they are a bit stinky. The one camp site we chose was a great place, tons of space and well manicured. A lot of options for pull up to your campsite or park and walk to campsite spots.

    My only complaints are about the campers that stay there. The litter isn't horrible, but it's not great. It is a leave no trace place. Apparently some people have difficulty with throwing away their trash.

    When we stayed last night there was a person that kept peeling out up and down the gravel road (3/4 times) in a diesel truck at 10:00 at night. Not very courteous to all of us at the campground.

    And I was awakened at 2:00 a.m. by our camping neighbors when they were playing loud music. Also not cool, thankfully they stopped shortly after

    Overall we were very pleased with this campground, beautiful views, it was hard choosing one spot. We will be coming back, and hopefully we won't have loud campers next time.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 16, 2022

    Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

    Great peaceful spot

    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.

  • amanda R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 1, 2024

    Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

    Great site!

    This was such a nice quiet campground. We arrived around 8am and got the first campsite we saw. This is the most established dispersed campsite that I’ve stayed at as it has a fire circle, a grill and a picnic table. It’s very quiet and very few cars passed. There’s a walking/hiking trail across the lake where we saw some hikers and some people on horseback. The site was very clean minus a few pieces of trash that we later picked up. The dogs loved it because our site was right on the lake. We drove down the gravel road to check out the other campsites and they all seem great if you’re tent camping! We car camped and our campsite was perfect because it had a parking space right in front of it whereas the other sites had parking spaces across the road. Overall a great place. I can’t wait to go back!

  • Katie A.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 19, 2021

    Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

    Convenient and just as described!

    On a road trip from WV to GA I was so happy to have this free, quiet campsite right on the water! Great option for anyone that wants to paddle around. I opted for site #5, gave good views, and all the sounds of nature into the evening. Picnic bench, fire ring, and flat tent pad are all you get, and all you need. I felt safe as a solo traveler, other sites are a good distance apart. The written driving directions from other reviews are helpful, it's a dirt road, but not too rough. Would recommend!

  • Steve K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2023

    Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

    Field test truck camping

    First site(L1)was open so I took it. I spent two nights there. First time dispersed camping in National Forest and truck camping. Even though I've been camping my whole life, all my equipment was new so it was a learning experience. 😁 Parking was pretty level, but behind my rear wheels it declined toward the lake. The tent pad, picnic table and fire ring was on level ground. It was really quiet during the day, but there were some very loud frogs(?) during the night, enough to wake you up. 2nd night I played music and I slept good. Lol If your GPS says that you have reached your destination, you probably have passed the gravel road. Once on gravel road, veer to the right and you will pass the cemetery on your left, then you'll see kiosk. Sign shows you have to register there at the kiosk. I enjoyed my time there and hopefully can go back again this year. Hope y'all are enjoying the great outdoors. LIV'N!

  • Robert N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2023

    Panther Top Dispersed Site

    Panther Top Dispersed

    Great spot right on the little lake. You can hear the gun range from the Camp Spot, but it is barely noticeable. There are two main spots right on the lake that are set up for tent camping. My overland rig fit in the small parking area fine, but I had to find a few rocks to level my truck so the rooftop tent was level. It is obviously a spot that locals come to party on the weekends but I had no issues. There looks like there are only 2 primary camping spots with fire rings and tent pads. My spot had a picnic table and two tent pads, a pole for your lantern and was just feet from the lake. Lots of fish jumping and I caught a 1 pound large mouth bass on a silver spinning lure. Over all a great spot. No bugs, but you will likely need to bring firewood, as all of the fallen trees had been scavenged. Since there are only two spot, definitely have a backup plan, especially on the weekends.

Guide to Maryville

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Maryville, Tennessee, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you're sure to enjoy the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Citico Creek Area

  • The Citico Creek Area offers a peaceful setting right by the river, perfect for those who enjoy fishing and relaxing by the water.
  • This area features spacious sites that allow for a private camping experience, making it ideal for families or groups looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • While there are no amenities like drinking water or electric hookups, the natural beauty and tranquility make it a highly sought-after spot for adventurous campers.

Top activities while free camping near Maryville

  • Hiking enthusiasts will love the trails around Calderwood Lake Primitive campground, which lead to stunning waterfalls and scenic views.
  • Canoeing is a popular activity here, with easy access to the lake and opportunities to explore the surrounding wilderness.
  • Wildlife watching is abundant in this area, so keep your eyes peeled for deer and various bird species while enjoying your stay.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Maryville, Tennessee

  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep areas like Harold Parrish Lower Camp - Backcountry clean and enjoyable for future visitors.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak seasons, as some areas can fill up quickly.
  • Be prepared for a lack of facilities; bringing your own water and waste disposal supplies is essential for a comfortable stay at places like Sourwood Campground.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Maryville, TN?

The Cherokee National Forest offers excellent free dispersed camping options near Maryville. Lost Creek - Cherokee NF provides primitive sites with concrete picnic tables and creek access about 7 miles down a well-maintained gravel road outside of Benton, TN. For those willing to drive a bit further, Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites offers free lakeside sites with picnic tables, fire pits, and level tent areas. Many sites have direct lake access for kayaking and canoeing. The Nantahala National Forest south of Great Smoky Mountains National Park also provides numerous free dispersed camping opportunities within driving distance of Maryville.

What are the regulations for dispersed camping around Maryville, Tennessee?

When dispersed camping near Maryville in Cherokee or Nantahala National Forests, you must follow standard regulations: camp at least 100 feet from water sources, stay at established sites when available, and practice Leave No Trace principles. At Lake Santeetlah Dispersed, sites are well-maintained but have no hookups. Most areas require proper waste disposal – pack out what you pack in. Siler Bald Trail Shelter and similar areas in Nantahala National Forest follow Appalachian Trail regulations. Generally, stays are limited to 14 consecutive days in a 30-day period. Always use existing fire rings and fully extinguish fires. Bear-proof food storage is required throughout the region.

Are there any established campgrounds in Maryville, TN for those who prefer amenities?

For campers seeking more amenities near Maryville, several established options exist beyond dispersed camping. Citico Creek Area offers developed sites with basic facilities while still providing a natural setting. Sourwood Campground provides drive-in access with toilets while maintaining a primitive feel. For those willing to venture a bit further from Maryville, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has numerous developed campgrounds with amenities like restrooms, drinking water, and fire rings. These established sites typically require reservations during peak seasons and charge nightly fees, unlike dispersed options, but provide greater comfort and convenience for those who prefer not to rough it.

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