Prentice Cooper State Forest encompasses over 25,000 acres of rugged Cumberland Plateau terrain with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,700 feet. The forest contains numerous dispersed camping options beyond the main campgrounds, with varying seasonal access depending on weather conditions. Many sites become difficult to access during winter months when service roads deteriorate from rainfall and freezing conditions.
What to do
Backcountry hiking options: Several trails throughout Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed provide access to remote camping areas. "We ran a bunch of the trails - enjoyed the views - wonderful spot," reports Sarah N. The forest's extensive trail system ranges from short day hikes to longer routes suitable for multi-day backpacking trips.
Fishing at Davis Pond: Bass fishing presents opportunities for anglers at the pond near the Davis Pond camping area. "My husband caught several large mouth bass in the pond too (catch and release)," notes Lori H. The pond supports healthy populations of largemouth bass, with reports of catches up to one pound in size.
Explore hidden waterfalls: A moderate 2.5-mile hike from Davis Pond leads to Blowing Wind Falls, a 30-foot cascade particularly impressive after rainfall. Access requires navigating forest service roads that may be challenging in wet conditions. "There's a trailhead that goes to blowing wind falls from the campground too," shares one visitor.
Cave exploration: Blue Hole Dispersed- Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA offers access to several cave systems including Ellison Cave. "It has a blue hole an caves no electricity or running water but the camp sites are pretty good," explains Michael M. Cave exploration requires proper equipment and experience due to safety concerns.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many dispersed sites throughout the forest offer substantial privacy compared to developed campgrounds. "If you're looking for a quiet place to camp near Chattanooga this is it," says Arden S. from Prentice Cooper State Forest. The most isolated sites are found along service roads rather than at the main camping areas.
Abundant hammock camping options: Tennessee Wall Camp provides excellent hammock camping with ample trees for setup. "Fantastic spot and great for hammocks as well," notes Brian W. Most dispersed sites throughout the forest feature mature hardwood trees suitable for hammock setup.
Fall foliage viewing: September through early November brings spectacular autumn colors to the forest. "The fall colors were off the hook but might be even better in October," mentions Kelly M. The diverse hardwood forest creates a multicolored canopy during peak fall season, typically mid-October.
No-cost camping options: Free camping near Jasper, Tennessee attracts budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts. "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," reports Ava R. about Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect access: Forest service roads often close during winter months, limiting campsite availability. "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," warns Raymond H.
Limited facilities throughout: No water sources exist at most dispersed camping locations. Toilets at developed areas like Davis Pond may be unusable. "DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT even think of entering the 'restroom' at Davis Pond. They really should demolish it. Completely disgusting," cautions Lori H.
High clearance vehicles recommended: Forest roads deteriorate with weather and use, creating challenging driving conditions. At Hidden Creek Campground, "The first road is pretty nice but then the road forks. We went right which goes up, passed an open gate followed the road LOTS OF DEEP POTHOLES," reports Robyn W. Four-wheel drive becomes necessary after heavy rainfall.
Noise considerations: Despite remote location, some campsites experience unexpected noise disruption. "Night time is great but gunshots started at 6:30 at a nearby gun range and dirt bikes started hitting the roads not much later," notes Tucker K. about Prentice Cooper State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Pack all supplies before arrival: No stores exist within the forest boundaries. "There are minimal places to stock up on necessities along the road so be sure and come equipped," advises Blake C. from Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite. The nearest supplies are 20 minutes away in Jasper.
Consider Davis Pond for group camping: The open field layout accommodates multiple tents and provides space for children to play. "There's plenty of room for multiple tents and great hammock spots," mentions Lori H. The field area offers approximately 2 acres of usable camping space.
Plan for no cell service: Emergency communications require preparation as most forest areas lack cellular coverage. "There is also no cell service so make sure you plan accordingly and have an emergency system in place," cautions Blake C. Weather radio provides the most reliable information source.
Check hunting seasons: Wildlife management areas have active hunting periods that may affect camping safety. "If you are not hunting, might want to avoid it during hunting season, you can find season dates on TWRA website," recommends Lori H.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access at most sites: Few dispersed sites accommodate larger recreational vehicles. "Davis Pond is more of an open field by the pond, and that's where we stayed," reports Lori H. This area provides the best RV access but requires navigating rough forest roads.
Gate closure considerations: Night access restrictions affect campers who plan late arrivals. "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," explains Peyton P.
Generator restrictions vary: Some areas prohibit generator use while others permit it with time restrictions. "We stayed 3 days 2 nights here in our 21' pop up camper with our generator," notes Ava R. about Blue Hole Dispersed camping.
