Primitive camping around La Follette, Tennessee offers rustic forest and lake experiences in the Cumberland Mountain region where elevations range from 900 to 3,000 feet. Most dispersed camping options sit between Norris Lake and the Cumberland Mountains, creating diverse terrain options for tent campers. Summer temperatures typically reach the upper 80s with overnight lows in the mid-60s, while spring and fall offer milder conditions for primitive tent camping.
What to do
Fishing at waterfront sites: At TVA Public Land- Fork Bend, campers can access Norris Lake directly from their tent sites. "My daughter and I went out for an overnight camping trip. We took our dogs with us. It was beautiful and rustic! We brought everything we needed with us. Norris lake is so beautiful. We're going back out again next weekend and this time we're bringing the fishing rods," notes camper Pinky S.
Off-road trail exploration: Tent campers near Windrock Ridge Campground can access what some call "the largest off road park in the country." The campground provides access to extensive trail systems. "This has got to be the largest off road park in the country. We camped at windrock ridge and could not believe the views," reports Jason S., who recommends getting "up on the ridge for the best sites."
Wildlife viewing: North Cumberland WMA offers chances to spot native wildlife including elk. The 79,000-acre wildlife management area provides ample space for tent campers to find isolation while watching for wildlife. A visitor notes, "The area is full of Elk too, so keep an eye out!"
Waterfront wading: Tent campers can find small beach areas for wading at several sites around Norris Lake. A camper at Fork Bend reports, "There was a tiny beach (not pictured) about 100 yards east of my site for wading -- manageable rock ledges and muddy banks everywhere else." Some waterfront camping areas feature gradual entry points suitable for swimming.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Chuck Swan State Forest, campers appreciate the isolation. "If you like primitive camping out in the middle of nowhere with a view, this is a place for you! If you like the night sky and quiet, alone time, this place is perfect," notes reviewer Shelly S. Similar experiences can be found at other primitive sites around La Follette.
Cell signal in remote areas: Despite being primitive, many tent camping areas around La Follette maintain usable cell service. At Fork Bend, a camper reported, "There were generally 2 bars of Verizon 4G, which sometimes increased to 3 bars or dropped down to 1X. I was able to text fine but sending/receiving pictures was hit or miss." Signal strength varies by location and carrier.
Ridge-top tent sites: The mountainous terrain provides opportunities for elevated camping with views. "We were on top of a ridge, and had good cell reception. It was quiet and peaceful. I did take note of several other really good spots too," shares a camper at North Cumberland WMA- Royal Blue Unit.
Free camping options: Multiple free tent camping areas exist around La Follette. As one Chuck Swan State Forest camper notes, "There are two camping areas that are FREE." TVA Public Land at Fork Bend is also free, providing budget-friendly options for tent campers seeking primitive experiences.
What you should know
Vehicle access considerations: Many primitive tent camping sites require careful navigation on unpaved roads. At Fork Bend, a camper advises, "Don't follow the directions from the link on the site. It will take you to a bible camp. From Demory Rd., take a right on Jim Lee rd, then take the second road on the left to head back to the public land area."
Pack-in water requirements: No potable water exists at most primitive sites. Campers must bring all water needed for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. "Bring your bug spray, flashlight and TP," advises a Chuck Swan State Forest camper, highlighting the lack of amenities.
Hunting season restrictions: Wildlife Management Areas have seasonal limitations during active hunting periods. At Burnt Mill Bridge Loop, primitive campers should check local regulations before visiting. One North Cumberland WMA camper notes, "I have camped at lots of WMA's, this one was convenient, clean, and quiet, so I would return. Just remember, hunting is allowed in this area, so you can't be there unless hunting during season."
Trash management: Several primitive sites around La Follette suffer from litter problems. "Beautiful waterfront camp sites. However, I think the locals use this as a weekend party spot, as there was a lot of trash (cans and food containers etc) left around," reports a Fork Bend visitor. Another camper noted, "There's a lot of broken glass everyone, no way around it. I sleep in a tent, so that kind of sucked having to rake the ground like that."
Tips for camping with families
Scout shallow swimming areas: Families tent camping with children should look for gradual-entry swimming spots. At Fork Bend, a camper reports finding "a nice rocky/sandy beach to play in and it stays shallow for a ways out so it would probably be nice for the kids."
Reserve primitive sites with facilities: For families wanting a middle ground between backcountry and developed camping, Rabbit Road Campground at Indian Mountain State Park offers primitive tent sites with some amenities. "There are plenty of picnic tables and trash cans, before the trails. There is also a mutt mitt station. And an info board, with trail & State Park map," notes a visitor.
Be prepared for wildlife encounters: Families should store food properly and educate children about wildlife safety. The forests around La Follette contain various wildlife including snakes. One camper at Fork Bend reports, "Lots of snakes hiding under rocks on the beach."
Choose tent sites based on privacy needs: Family groups may want more isolated sites to avoid disturbing others. At Rabbit Road Campground, "The sites are semi private, and 1-9-10 are the most popular sites used, according to the Ranger."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Tent camping dominates the La Follette area, with few suitable RV sites in primitive areas. Most RVs should use developed campgrounds instead of dispersed sites. At The Farmers Forest, facilities are designed for tent camping rather than RVs, with a visitor noting, "If you love the woods, this is your spot."
High-clearance vehicle access: Many tent camping areas require vehicles with good ground clearance. "The road back is a gravel/dirt road a few miles into the woods," reports a Fork Bend camper, though they noted "4x4 isn't necessary" in dry conditions for their GMC van.
Scout sites before parking: At Windrock Ridge Campground, a truck camper owner advises, "The wooded tent sites where perfect not all are level so ask to drive through and preview avails before booking." This approach helps find suitable spots for vehicles carrying camping gear.
Consider smaller RVs only: For those with truck campers or very small RVs, some primitive sites may work. "I'm in a truck camper with a rooftop tent. The wooded tent sites where perfect," notes a Windrock Ridge visitor. Standard travel trailers and larger RVs will find few suitable options in primitive areas.
