Best Dispersed Camping near Chattanooga, TN

Alaska offers a diverse range of camping experiences across its vast wilderness areas, with developed campgrounds like Homer Spit Campground and Eklutna Lake Campground providing amenities for tent campers, RV travelers, and those seeking cabin accommodations. The region includes both established sites with hookups and more remote options, with many campgrounds situated near lakes, rivers, and glaciers. Several locations feature boat-in access alongside traditional drive-in sites, allowing visitors to experience Alaska's unique landscapes from multiple perspectives.

Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping in Alaska, with most campgrounds operating from May through September. Winter camping is available at select locations like Riley Creek Campground in Denali National Park, which remains open year-round. Travelers should prepare for variable weather conditions and wildlife encounters, particularly bears, which are commonly mentioned in visitor reviews. Cell service varies significantly throughout the state, with many remote areas offering limited or no connectivity. A visitor commented, "This is the best camping in Alaska. Just find a spot big enough for your rig or tent and pull off. There are many regularly used sites that have rock fire rings already made."

Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with many campgrounds offering views of glaciers, mountains, and pristine lakes. Several campgrounds in Chugach State Park provide access to hiking trails and fishing opportunities, while locations near Seward offer proximity to boat excursions and wildlife viewing. Campers frequently mention mosquitoes as a consideration during summer months, though intensity varies by location and time of year. Public lands near popular destinations like Denali, Anchorage, and Homer support a range of camping styles from primitive to full-service. According to one review, "We really enjoyed camping here. This was our first place we camped in Alaska and it was very clean. It has a beautiful view with the lake right there and the beavers are very active."

Best Dispersed Sites Near Chattanooga, Tennessee (27)

    1. Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Signal Mountain, TN
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 658-5551

    "You can definitely get lost driving around or hiking. If you're looking for a quiet place to camp near Chattanooga this is it."

    "A secluded spot in a protected forest not far from Chattanooga. You can camp at the ranger station, but your best bet is to drive out to the pond and camp in the middle of the forest"

    2. Tennessee Wall Camp

    2 Reviews
    Lookout Mountain, TN
    8 miles

    "We really enjoyed our night tent camping here."

    3. Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp

    2 Reviews
    Signal Mountain, TN
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 658-5551

    "This is a great FREE spot right outside the hunters entrance of prentice cooper state forest. There are about 12 spots and it wasn’t crowded when we came on a Saturday."

    4. Blue Hole Dispersed- Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA

    5 Reviews
    Rising Fawn, GA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 210-2914

    "Road is pretty well maintained, spots are good size, some only large enough for tent/car camping. We were never bothered and it’s right down the road from blue hole and Ellison Cave trail."

    "If you like dispersed camping you'll probably enjoy it. If you prefer a campground, this is not for you."

    5. Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area

    5 Reviews
    Crandall, GA
    38 miles
    Website

    "This is a primitive group camping area close to Lake Conasauga. GPS is 34.86064073010609,-84.63659794105651. (Photos and this review are from my last stay here on 31 Oct- 02 Nov 2021.) "

    "This is a large field for dispersed camping along Conasauga Lake Road that is popular with both hikers (Emery Creek Trail and Tear Britches Trail both have trailheads here) and Overlanders (site is on"

    6. Lost Creek - Cherokee NF

    9 Reviews
    Reliance, TN
    45 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."

    7. Jack's River Falls Trail/Cohutta Wilderness Backcountry Group Camp

    4 Reviews
    Cisco, GA
    39 miles

    "This is a tough trail but good for teens looking to challenge themselves in the back country. The views are amazing with rock falls. Camping is primitive as back country can be but worth the trek."

    "Obviously very close to the river to filter water from. We didn't see any wildlife at this site, but we did see a copperhead at another earlier in the trip, so be aware!"

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

    9 Reviews
    Spring City, TN
    45 miles
    Website

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

    "Felt safe overall."

    9. Conasauga River Camp

    2 Reviews
    Cisco, TN
    36 miles

    "Lovely little spot next to a very swimmable and warm crystal clear river - very popular with locals, and I imagine would be packed on weekends."

    "My go-to spot gets picked up during the fall A lot but best dispersed site I’ve found in a while"

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Showing results 1-10 of 27 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Chattanooga, TN

58 Reviews of 27 Chattanooga Campgrounds



Guide to Chattanooga

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Chattanooga, Tennessee, where nature lovers can find serene spots to unwind and explore the great outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, campers can enjoy everything from tranquil ponds to rugged trails.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Chattanooga

  • Enjoy hiking along the scenic trails at Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed, where you can immerse yourself in the lush forest and spot local wildlife.
  • Experience the thrill of off-road adventures on the OHV trails available at Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp, perfect for those looking to combine camping with some adrenaline-pumping fun.
  • Take a peaceful stroll around the pond at Tennessee Wall Camp, where you can relax by the water and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Goforth Creek

  • The Goforth Creek Campground A offers easy access to refreshing creek waters, making it an ideal spot for a summer dip after a hike.
  • For those seeking a quieter experience, Goforth Creek Campground B provides a more secluded setting, perfect for a peaceful night under the stars.
  • Campers can enjoy the primitive experience at Big Creek Primitive Camping Area, where multiple sites along the creek allow for a true escape into nature.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Chattanooga, Tennessee

  • Be prepared for rough access roads when visiting Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed, as some routes may require high clearance vehicles for the best camping spots.
  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles, especially at locations like Conasauga River Camp, to help maintain the natural beauty of these areas for future visitors.
  • Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as copperheads, while exploring the trails around Tennessee Wall Camp, ensuring a safe and enjoyable camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Chattanooga, TN is Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed with a 4.3-star rating from 12 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 27 dispersed camping locations near Chattanooga, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.