Dispersed camping near Dunlap, Tennessee centers around the 24,000-acre Prentice Cooper State Forest, with elevations ranging from 800 to 2,000 feet above sea level. Located on the Cumberland Plateau, this rugged terrain features seasonal hunting closures between December and March that significantly impact camping availability. Weather conditions can change rapidly with temperature swings of 30+ degrees during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Fishing at Davis Pond: The small pond at Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed offers largemouth bass fishing. "Caught 4 largemouth bass in about 15 minutes of fishing on the pond, largest being about a 1lb," reports one camper.
Hiking forest trails: Multiple trailheads provide access to hiking routes. "We ran a bunch of the trails - enjoyed the views - wonderful spot," notes a visitor at Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed.
Visit Blue Hole: The natural swimming area at Blue Hole Dispersed provides a refreshing option during hot months. "It has a blue hole an caves no electricity or running water but the camp sites are pretty good," one camper explains.
Fall foliage viewing: Autumn brings colorful displays to the forest. "We came here to camp among the turning trees one September. It is a huge area and I didn't see any camping other than primitive tent sites. The fall colors were off the hook but might be even better in October."
What campers like
Seclusion and privacy: The remote nature of dispersed camping areas provides isolation. "The forest is beautiful but also huge. You can definitely get lost driving around or hiking. If you're looking for a quiet place to camp near Chattanooga this is it," notes one Prentice Cooper visitor.
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution allows for excellent stargazing when skies are clear. At Tennessee Wall Camp, visitors appreciate "Beautiful sites with fire pits" while enjoying evening skies.
Natural water features: Multiple water access points enhance camping experiences. "We really enjoyed our night tent camping here. There is a parking lot right off the road after a fun ~30 minute drive through residential roads right on the water, then sites with fire pits are scattered throughout a small clearing," reports a Tennessee Wall Camp visitor.
Wildlife observation: Animal sightings are common in less developed areas. "We were never bothered and it's right down the road from blue hole and Ellison Cave trail," notes a camper at Blue Hole Dispersed.
What you should know
Access restrictions: Gates at many sites close at specific times. "If you want to stay at davis pond you have to get there before dark, and there is not access for vehicles to get into the campground so it's just tents," warns a visitor.
Seasonal closures: Winter access is severely limited. "This is a beautiful WMA area with tons of offshoots along a service road for camping, but please note, 99% of areas are closed between December and March. Had to turn around and find somewhere else to camp for the night," cautions a Prentice Cooper visitor.
Safety concerns: At Jackson Island Dispersed Campground, security has been an issue. "We went this past summer and had a nice visit. There wasn't too many people but a few weeks later we drove thru and people were packed in like sardines. Have been told that vehicles have been stolen so may want to watch your surroundings depending on the environment at the time."
Off-road traffic: Many dispersed sites experience daytime vehicle noise. "We stayed at the Davis Pond Campground which is about a 15min drive back into the park. You will deal with some ATV/Jeep traffic during the weekends which can cause some dust to deal with."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Some dispersed areas offer easier access than others. At Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp, "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."
Pack in all supplies: No services exist at most sites. "There's no riding after dusk, so at Davis Pond it's very quiet and peaceful with only the sounds of nature! DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT even think of entering the 'restroom' at Davis Pond. They really should demolish it."
Bring water treatment: No reliable water sources exist at most sites. "The campground is level and large enough to accommodate many tents. There are also trees that would be suitable for hammock camping," notes a camper at Walls of Jericho Trailhead.
Consider timing: School breaks can lead to crowding. "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."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: RV camping in this area requires self-sufficiency. At Walls of Jericho Trailhead Campsite, "This is primitive camping so no bathhouse, but there is a porta-john in the trailhead parking lot. The site is a good distance from any convenient stores or grocery stores so plan accordingly."
Check road conditions: Forest service roads vary in condition. "We stayed 3 days 2 nights here in our 21' pop up camper with our generator. Road is pretty well maintained, spots are good size, some only large enough for tent/car camping."
Site selection challenges: Finding suitable spaces for larger RVs requires planning. "This site is 3 separate clearings near the trailhead and parking with small fire pits. They work in a pinch if you get here late and don't want to hike in or if you want to car camp."
