Dispersed camping near Erin, Tennessee includes several primitive sites situated within the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, spanning over 170,000 acres across western Kentucky and Tennessee. The region features hardwood forests with elevations ranging from 350 to 580 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures average 80-90°F with high humidity, while winter temperatures typically range from 30-50°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: LBL FS-326 provides access to Energy Lake and Kentucky Lake. "This was a fantastic dispersed camping spot! A few cars went by looking for whatever, but the road dead ends at Energy Lake," notes Andrea L. The area's shorelines offer year-round fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish.
Swimming spots: Forest Service Rd 343 features accessible water entry points. "This is one of the best spots I've found on this app. Beautiful view with a nice fire pit, I was able to swim and had a great night to myself!" shares Andrew C. Water levels vary seasonally, with summer temperatures reaching the mid-80s.
Wildlife observation: Several campsites offer opportunities to see local wildlife. "We did our best to pick it all up before we left. Would recommend swimming in the water nearby and would recommend seeing the buffalo on the way in or out," explains Katie at Forest Service Rd 343. The Elk & Bison Prairie within the recreation area requires a separate $5 entrance fee.
What campers like
Seclusion: Forest Service Rd 343 provides isolation despite occasional visitors. "Stayed here 4/17-18. The first day I was visited by an older man on a dirt bike who was just out riding. The next morning an older man on a horse stopped to talk and a couple in a Cherokee stopped to chat. Seems it's a popular road for other people looking for an off-the-beaten-path place," shares Ralph S.
Lakeside locations: Neville Bay campers appreciate the proximity to water. "Mostly flat near the water and lots of sites to camp. We really enjoyed our spot in the shade on a hot summer weekend," notes Jordan about this primitive camping option near Erin, Tennessee.
Cost efficiency: Several dispersed sites require nominal fees. "Dispersed camping is a $10 fee. If you have the National Park pass you can go to a self check in campground for $5," explains Darryl H. about Forest Service Rd 343. Land between The Lakes Bards Lake Tharp Road also offers affordable options with one camper noting, "Not free, but worthwhile for a small fee. My family and I loved spending time at this spot!"
What you should know
Permit requirements: Most dispersed camping areas require permits. "Be sure to have your dispersed camping permit before coming out! They are available online, and at any of the Visitor's centers," advises Staci R. at LBL FS154 Dispersed. Permits can be purchased at North or South Welcome Stations.
Limited facilities: Prepare for true primitive camping near Erin. "This campsite is very popular, even though there are ZERO AMENITIES, which means you need to know and understand sanitation ('cat holes') as there are no port-a-johns or vault toilets, there is also NO POTABLE water, so you either pack it in or bring your filter and drink lake water," explains Staci R.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly by location and weather conditions. "I stayed at two different spots in March 2024. You might need 4wd; it had rained all day before I got here and there were some rough/sloppy patches in the road. The pit toilet at the entrance is about a 10-12 minute drive away," reports Sean at LBL FS154 Dispersed.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Some areas offer better family camping than others. "Neville Bay is A-OK... Very clean, well maintained primitive campground on the south end of LBL. Four stars, for what it is. If there was electric and water it would be a solid 5. Secluded but still accessible," recommends Jason W.
Safety considerations: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. "It was quiet most of the time. Occasionally heard some obnoxious people across the lake where I believe a campground is located. Also heard a sound during the night, possibly coyotes. Otherwise, I felt safe and had a great time here!!" shares Andrea L. at LBL Forest Rd 326.
Space requirements: Assess site sizes before arrival. "The campsite itself is on a small peninsula, just big enough for a large two room tent, a makeshift fire ring, and a vehicle," notes Staci R. about LBL FS154 Dispersed, explaining the limited space available.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Smaller RVs fare better at these primitive sites. "Nice little area to camp at. Well suited for tents. Most of the area isn't very level. The road going back there is gravel. We went with our 30 ft travel trailer. There is no hook ups. Can run generator until 11pm," advises Micheal at Neville Bay.
Surface conditions: Evaluate ground stability before attempting to bring in an RV. "Follow the road to the picture on the Forest Rd site. Rutted roads to the north, where these coordinates take you, but beautiful solitude once you get to the right spot," Karen comments about Forest Service Rd 343, suggesting caution for larger vehicles.
Road clearance: Vehicle ground clearance matters on access roads. "The road is gravel and bumpy so you might not want to take a smaller car on it but just fine for any awd, truck, van, etc," notes Katie regarding Forest Service Rd 343.
