Top Free Dispersed Camping near Cumberland Gap, TN

Searching for a dispersed camping spot near Cumberland Gap? Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Cumberland Gap, including photos, reviews, and tips. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campgrounds for your Tennessee camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Cumberland Gap, TN (4)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Cumberland Gap

10 Reviews of 4 Cumberland Gap Campgrounds


  • Pam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1
    Oct. 13, 2024

    Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1

    Jellico Creek 1

    There are three dispersed camp sites along this road.  We stayed at the first and largest of the three.  This first site has room for two groups.  It also has a small swimming hole with a rope swing.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
    Oct. 7, 2024

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    CLOSED.

    I rode all the way over here from Greeneville to check out the area in order to bring a group of friends camping next weekend.

    BUT the entire campground is closed. When I pulled up to the iron gate and saw the sign, it read "CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC DUE TO VANDALISM AND UNAUTHORIZED ACTIVITY"

  • Tripp A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    Closed to Public

    I drove over an hour to get here to find that it is “closed to public for vandalism”. I was very upset by this but obviously nothing I could do. Just wish I knew how to check before driving all the way. But the drive! Woah! So beautiful, I wish there was a way I could find out when it opens back up because I was very much looking forward to camping here.

  • Courtney R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Moon Hill Bridge
    Jun. 7, 2024

    Moon Hill Bridge

    Moon Hill Bridge

    It's a cute cozy spot that is on either side of the road. Every spot has an area for a fire and also your car and tent. The only downside is that sometimes it does get trashy and there are a few people who live here.

  • hThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
    May. 13, 2024

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    Not too shabby for the south

    Lots of lil cozy pull offs on an easy gravel road. Lots of longer term people staying it seemed like (or just really full send camping friends lol). Many fire rings and spots by the lake. Unfortunately the other reviews are right - A decent amount of trash. There are trash cans and porta potties. I’ve seen worse porta potties at festivals but there were a few stinky ones.

  • Amin A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
    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.

  • Karli P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
    Jul. 23, 2023

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    So Much Potential!

    We arrived at this dispersed campground at around 7:30 on a Saturday evening in July. It was pretty packed but since we were planning on leaving early the next morning, we took a family’s offer of taking over their spot as they left.

    We use a roof top tent so unfortunately we weren’t able to camp at the actual site, instead we set up on an almost level gravel parking area that had a private trail to the actual camp site. There were garbage cans and a port-a-potty set up right there, which is why this site lost some stars. Even though these facilities were provided, people didn’t use the garbages and there was a lot of garbage on the ground, including broken glass that made us worry about our pup’s paws. Also, the port-a-potty was pretty yucky..neither my husband nor I were willing to use it.

    Now, I want to reiterate that this is a geographically beautiful spot! Humans just need to take better care of it 💚

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Swain Ridge
    Jul. 6, 2023

    Swain Ridge

    Gravel only

    Not able to camp in open field. 1000$ fine for doing so. Camping at trailhead or on road side is fine.

  • Sierra E.
    Camper-submitted photo from Swain Ridge
    May. 23, 2023

    Swain Ridge

    Quiet Pasture But Ticks

    It was wonderfully secluded, we used the car to “mow” the grass down, and set up fine. But we did have ticks EVERYWHERE and poison ivy along the edges of the pasture. We had a ball we were playing with roll in there. Outside for normal outside life inconvenience; it was a beautiful, quiet pasture. We were even blessed with see several bats fly around at night. There was no light pollution so we had a great time star gazing!



Guide to Cumberland Gap

Camping near Cumberland Gap, Tennessee, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Nature Trails: Explore the trails around Big Ridge State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The site is a short and easy hike from the parking lot via the Lake Trail," making it accessible for families.
  • Fishing and Water Activities: Enjoy fishing at Cove Lake State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "We learned to fly fish in the river," highlighting the great access to water.
  • Disc Golf and Playgrounds: At Indian Mountain State Park Campground, you can enjoy disc golf and playgrounds. One reviewer noted, "There are 2 playgrounds, a Disc golf course, and a beautiful lake," perfect for family fun.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One visitor at Loyston Point Campground said, "You can camp on the water and watch amazing sunsets."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A camper at Panther Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "Bathrooms are very clean, loads of hot water and private."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at Cove Lake State Park Campground said, "A friendly ranger was at our side answering all our dumb questions about the area."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like TVA Public Land- Fork Bend, have minimal facilities. A camper noted, "There is a lot of broken glass everywhere," so be cautious when setting up.
  • Site Conditions: At Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground, one reviewer warned, "Only 2 of the 6 sites are usable if it has rained within a week of your stay."
  • Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in some areas. A camper at Big Ridge State Park Campground mentioned, "TMobile cell service was very spotty."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Campsite: Look for sites that are spacious and safe for kids. A camper at Indian Mountain State Park Campground said, "The picnic tables and fire rings are oddly placed at some campsites," so check the layout before booking.
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. One family at Cove Lake State Park Campground enjoyed the local brews while the kids played, making it a fun family outing.
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone fueled up. A visitor at Loyston Point Campground mentioned, "The staff in the store were super sweet and helpful," so you can grab essentials if needed.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Lengths: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Panther Creek State Park Campground advised, "There are about 12 premium sites that have sewer for RVs."
  • Bring Leveling Gear: Some sites can be uneven. A visitor at Big Ridge State Park Campground noted, "Check your lengths and bring your leveling boards."
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of local attractions. One RV traveler at Cove Lake State Park Campground mentioned enjoying local brews, making it a great way to unwind after a day of exploring.

Camping near Cumberland Gap, Tennessee, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for you to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Cumberland Gap, TN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cumberland Gap, TN is Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1 with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Cumberland Gap, TN?

    TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Cumberland Gap, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.