Dispersed camping near La Follette, Tennessee provides access to backcountry sites across the Cumberland Mountains region. The terrain features elevations ranging from 950 to 3,500 feet with a humid subtropical climate that brings approximately 50 inches of annual rainfall. Most primitive sites are located on National Forest land or Wildlife Management Areas where campers must be self-sufficient and practice proper waste disposal.
What to do
Fishing access: Redbird Boat Ramp offers anglers direct access to local waterways. "Nothing special there is a boat ramp. Plenty of space for a couple RVs. No amenities. The sky was beautiful," notes Kody Bear A. This Kentucky location serves primarily as a fishing access point rather than a destination campground.
Winter camping: Trace Branch Dispersed - Rock Creek Road accommodates cold-weather camping with proper equipment. Matthew H. reports, "Visited here in the middle of January with all the snow and I was hot tent camping. You can only set up your tent on the designated tent pad, luckily we had heavy duty stakes that could get through the ground. The entire river was frozen over and ponds were frozen too."
Wildlife observation: Look for nocturnal wildlife after sunset at primitive camping areas near La Follette. Robert W. mentions at Bi-Color Campground: "Lots of wildlife sounds at night. Also a random heard of cattle strols through every now and again." Several campsites provide opportunities to observe regional fauna including deer, small mammals, and birds.
What campers like
Isolation: Most dispersed camping options offer significant distance from developed areas. At Swain Ridge, Sierra E. found it "wonderfully secluded, we used the car to 'mow' the grass down, and set up fine... 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!"
Multiple site options: Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1 provides several potential camping locations within one area. According to Pam B., "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."
Space between campers: Many primitive sites near La Follette offer adequate separation from other campers. John B. found at Bi-Color Campground: "Only saw one other camper on our trip this weekend so it was very peaceful. There was no accessible water near by so make sure you bring your own provisions."
What you should know
Seasonal hunting impacts: During hunting seasons, campsite availability and atmosphere can change dramatically. Rachel G. reports about Bi-Color Campground: "Rifle season starts Nov 20. I'm 10 days early, and was a bit surprised just how many hunters are already here. I feel like I'm the only solo woman here, also seem to be the only Van lifer. Lots of RVs."
Unpredictable conditions: Weather can impact site access and camping experience significantly. Michael W. describes Bi-Color Campground as "Primitive at its best. Didn't stay. To far out for me. Lots of knats. Dirt rd I, washboard out was north to Rock Creek campground steep downhill grade narrow."
Regulation variances: Rules differ between sites and may change seasonally. Jacob M. warns about Swain Ridge: "Not able to camp in open field. 1000$ fine for doing so. Camping at trailhead or on road side is fine." Always check current regulations before camping.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose areas with natural features that engage children. Trace Branch offers creek-side camping where, as Pam B. notes, "We took our portable firepit and sat by the creek for a beautiful evening."
Pest preparation: Pack appropriate insect repellent and tick prevention. Sierra E. cautions, "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."
Water recreation: Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1 provides swimming opportunities for families. "This first site has room for two groups. It also has a small swimming hole with a rope swing," according to Pam B.
Tips from RVers
Road considerations: Access roads to primitive sites may present challenges for larger vehicles. At Bi-Color Campground, Michael W. warns, "My opinion not for 5th wheel. No cell for miles."
Leveling requirements: Many sites feature uneven terrain requiring blocking or leveling equipment. Nicholas at Bi-Color notes, "This camp is perfect for the fam as it can accommodate RV sized vehicles. Only word of caution is that the ground can get a bit muddy, so try to find something dry."
Spacing awareness: Some areas provide better accommodation for recreational vehicles than others. Kody Bear A. found that Redbird Boat Ramp has "Plenty of space for a couple RVs. No amenities."
