Dispersed camping near Kingsport, Tennessee centers around the tri-state border region where Tennessee meets Virginia and North Carolina. The area features significant elevation changes, with camping opportunities ranging from 1,800 feet in creek valleys to 6,000 feet on mountain balds. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing at higher elevations, while summer thunderstorms form quickly in the afternoons. Forest roads throughout Cherokee and Washington & Jefferson National Forests provide access to most primitive sites.
What to do
Fishing access: Hidden Valley WMA offers lakeside recreation with calm, clean water. "Easy to access in a vehicle, several campers campsites available. Lake is calm and clean for water recreation," notes one visitor. The area requires a $4 Access pass from Virginia Wildlife with camping authorization added to your account.
Trail proximity: Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites provide convenient access to popular hiking trails. "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," according to a camper who spent three weeks at the site during the pandemic.
Stargazing opportunities: Camp at Grassy Ridge Bald - Dispersed BackCountry for exceptional night sky viewing. One camper describes the experience: "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."
What campers like
Natural sounds: Creek-side camping provides soothing background noise. As one Washington & Jefferson National Forest camper noted, "Overall this was a great little spot right off the road. The sound of the creek was lovely all night."
Solitude opportunities: Less-visited sites offer peaceful experiences. "This spot is very nice, close to the water's edge. There's quite a few rings, bear bins, and a porta-loo. We had the place to ourselves which was really great," reports a visitor to Hidden Valley WMA.
Swimming spots: Some dispersed camping areas include natural swimming holes. "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," shares a Washington & Jefferson Forest camper.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most primitive camping near Kingsport lacks basic amenities. "There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or even pit toilet, so come prepared," cautions a visitor about Washington & Jefferson National Forest sites.
Road conditions: Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area features challenging access. "Stayed a night out here while traveling, scary narrow rocky trails, but beautiful streams and mountains," reports one camper who rated the experience 5 stars despite the difficult approach.
Safety considerations: Be aware of potential illegal activities. One Washington & Jefferson Forest camper shares a concerning experience: "We 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!"
Signage issues: Information about available sites may be outdated. A visitor to Paint Creek Corridor notes: "The national forest service website says there are dispersed camping sites throughout the corridor; however, I was only able to locate one and luckily it was vacant. There are several spots along the road that may have been for dispersed camping at some point but are now clearly marked with no camping signs."
Tips for camping with families
Bring cleaning supplies: Many dispersed sites require cleanup before use. At Paint Creek Corridor, a visitor mentions: "Also a lot of trash in the area of the site sadly," a common issue at many free primitive sites near Kingsport.
Consider site exposure: Some camping areas offer minimal privacy. A Washington & Jefferson Forest camper advises: "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."
Prepare for weather changes: Mountain elevations experience rapid shifts in conditions. At Unaka Mountain Overlook, a visitor recommends watching the sunset but notes: "2 Stars but just for the view... unfortunately the areas around the established fire rings had trash and a lot broken glass scattered about. I had my dog with me so we just called it a day after the sunset and did not stay."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most dispersed camping near Kingsport suits tent camping or small vans. "The camp area is alright - 4 ish areas to pull up to and a few tent sites... pretty and quiet. Only downside is that the road up is a pretty harsh grade for 4 miles. Our short bus Skoolie had some troubles with it," reports a visitor to Hidden Valley WMA.
Plan for complete self-sufficiency: No hookups or dumping facilities exist at any dispersed sites. Bring water, portable power, and waste containment systems.
