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Best Dispersed Camping near Estill Springs, TN

25 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Estill Springs, Tennessee includes primitive sites in nearby Prentice Cooper State Forest and Walls of Jericho areas. Prentice Cooper State Forest offers multiple free dispersed camping zones approximately 60-70 miles from Estill Springs, with both designated areas at Hunter's Check Station and Davis Pond, plus backcountry sites. The Walls of Jericho area provides trailhead camping with basic accommodations and primitive sites along hiking trails. These areas represent the closest public land options for no-fee camping in the region.

Access roads to many of these dispersed sites require careful navigation, particularly in Prentice Cooper State Forest where some routes demand high-clearance vehicles. The Davis Pond area involves driving approximately 5-7 miles on well-maintained unpaved forest roads before reaching the camping area. Gates at Prentice Cooper close at dark, requiring campers to arrive before sundown. Camping duration limits are enforced, with some visitors reporting that the game warden requires campers to vacate after a certain period, which may extend to a month between stays. Most dispersed areas have no drinking water, electricity, or shower facilities.

The dispersed sites around Estill Springs provide varying experiences based on location and season. "Prentice Cooper is an amazing place and offers two campgrounds and several backcountry camping spots," noted one camper, highlighting the options available. Davis Pond area remains relatively uncrowded even during holiday weekends, with reports of good fishing opportunities for largemouth bass. Many areas experience seasonal closures, with a review warning, "99% of areas are closed between December and March." Noise can be an issue in some locations, with early morning disturbances from nearby shooting ranges and off-road vehicles mentioned in reviews. The Tennessee Wall Camp area provides additional primitive sites that accommodate both tent and hammock camping, though campers should expect to share the area with others during peak periods.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Estill Springs, Tennessee (5)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Estill Springs, TN

5 Photos of 5 Estill Springs Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Estill Springs, TN

25 Reviews of 5 Estill Springs Campgrounds

  • Cole T.
    May. 14, 2021

    Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed

    Great

    Prentice Cooper is an amazing place and offers two campgrounds and several backcountry camping spots. There is a campground not too far after pulling in the gravel road that has some really nice spots. The other campground requires you to drive down a gravel road for approximately 7 miles and then down some trails that require high clearance. This campground is nice and tooked into the woods with a pond nearby. There are several OHV trails in prentice Cooper and the place can get very crowded on the weekends. Definitely recommend going during the week.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 1, 2021

    Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite

    Small boring site

    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 and hike to the falls without gear. Be aware that you will have to go a little ways down the trail to find water.

  • Steve V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 20, 2019

    Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite

    Convenient Trailhead Camping

    The trailhead campsite is a short walk from the parking lot, but makes for a great basecamp for exploring the area. The campsite is level and large enough to accommodate many tents. There are also trees that would be suitable for hammock camping. The site is on the edge of an overlook of the canyon and has multiple fire rings if there are multiple groups there. This site and trailhead serves both the Walls of Jericho trail and the Bear Den Point Loop Trail. 

    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. We found good cell phone service with Verizon at this site. Trash cans are located in the trailhead parking lot. Please pack out your trash from the campsite.

  • William Andrew C.
    May. 1, 2021

    Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite

    Not a lot of options near the parking lot for hammocks

    The only decent spot for hammocks is the little campsite that is right in front of the parking lot. We went over to the clearing just north of the parking lot, but there were no good spots. The clearing was extremely overgrown, as was the tree line all around the clearing. At the site directly in front of the parking lot, you can really only get two hammocks, unless you want to stack your hammocks vertically. You'll have to tie both hammocks to the same tree at one end, and then use two trees on the other side. There is no water near this site. This site is OK if you need to be near the parking lot or don't want to hike your gear in and out. Otherwise, you're way better off going down to one of the other sites.

  • Ava R.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 13, 2023

    Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp

    Quiet but muddy

    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. It is a bit muddy but it is manageable.

  • S
    Jul. 16, 2016

    Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed

    Dispersed Camping in Prentice Cooper State Forest

    We loved exploring Prentice Cooper State Forest! What a gem! We actually stayed in one of the camping areas, but next time we'd like to backpack instead. We ran a bunch of the trails - enjoyed the views - wonderful spot.

  • Arden S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 19, 2018

    Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed

    Seclusion

    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.

  • Blake C.
    Nov. 16, 2020

    Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite

    An exercise in packing

    The Walls of Jehrico trail offers a handful of first-come/first-serve primitive campsites set adjacent to two separate water sources (streams).  Any equipment must be carried in and out which makes for a perfect backpacking experience.  

    Your campsite offers little privacy due to trail proximity but that should not distract from a wonderful experience.

    There are minimal places to stock up on necessities along the road so be sure and come equipped.  There is also no cell service so make sure you plan accordingly and have an emergency system in place.

  • dolphmike The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite

    Quite

    Quite at night, but the primitive camping area is overgrown, and I have seen a lot of trash in the woods. Stayed one night just to hike the trail the next morning.

Guide to Estill Springs

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Estill Springs, Tennessee, where nature meets adventure. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you can immerse yourself in the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Estill Springs, Tennessee

  • Make sure to pack out all your trash when visiting places like Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite, as there are no trash facilities available on-site.
  • Bring plenty of water, as some areas, such as Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp, do not provide drinking water, and you may need to hike to find a water source.
  • Be prepared for primitive conditions; facilities are minimal, and you should expect to find only basic amenities like fire rings and toilets at spots like Tennessee Wall Camp.

Enjoy hiking and exploring while free camping near Estill Springs

  • The Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite serves as a great base for hiking, with trails leading to stunning views and waterfalls nearby.
  • If you're looking for a more secluded experience, Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed offers numerous trails and scenic spots perfect for a day of exploration.
  • For those who enjoy a challenge, the trails around Tennessee Wall Camp provide opportunities for both hiking and climbing, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Dispersed campers should check out Prentice Cooper State Forest

  • This area is known for its diverse landscapes and offers multiple dispersed camping options, including Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp, which is ideal for both tent and RV camping.
  • Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to spot various species while camping at Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed, where the natural habitat is rich and vibrant.
  • The forest is also home to several picturesque ponds, making it a perfect spot for fishing or simply enjoying the serene environment while staying at Tennessee Wall Camp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Estill Springs, TN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Estill Springs, TN is Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite with a 2.7-star rating from 6 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Estill Springs, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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