Dispersed camping areas near Kingston, Tennessee provide primitive camping without developed facilities. Most sites sit between 700 and 1,200 feet elevation in the Cherokee National Forest and surrounding public lands. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, while summer humidity often exceeds 80% with daytime temperatures reaching the upper 80s.
What to do
Creek fishing opportunities: At Citico Creek Area, campers can access multiple fishing spots along the water. "The area recently received a lot of rain so the creek was pretty high and fast flowing. There were several marked campgrounds along the creek," notes Monte W., who stayed at site 4 in late March.
Hiking nearby trails: The Lost Creek - Cherokee NF campground connects to the Benton McKaye trail. "The lost cove campground can be found deep in the wilderness of the Cherokee National Forest outside of Benton, TN. A portion of campground adjoins a small creek. The creek can be used for shallow water wading or fishing," explains Gregg G.
Water activities: Lakeside camping at Jackson Island Dispersed Campground offers swimming and boating. "Great view, plenty of spots to set up, great fishing and a surprisingly low amount of bugs!" reports Brendan G. The campground is managed by Tennessee Valley Authority with sites directly on the water.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The spacing between campsites at Citico Creek Area receives consistent praise. "These campsites are extremely spread out, allowing for private camping. No hookups, but a majority of the 14 sites are on the creek itself," writes Zane P. This feature makes it popular for those seeking seclusion.
Fire rings and picnic tables: Many free camping areas include basic amenities. "Dispersed camping with a glorious view. Fire pits and concrete pads at most sites. Dumpster on site so please use it. Easy to find and private spacious sites available," says Angie A. about Jackson Island.
Wildlife viewing: Bi-Color Campground in Catoosa Wildlife Management Area offers wildlife observation opportunities. "This area is beautiful almost all times of the year! Plenty of wildlife and lots of shady areas. Alcohol is allowed in designated camping areas. Only saw one other camper on our trip this weekend so it was very peaceful," states John B.
What you should know
Seasonal road conditions: Access to many free camping areas depends on recent weather. "I could see them being bad after a heavy storm. Gravel 7 miles to here," notes Chris D. about roads to Lost Creek in Cherokee National Forest.
First-come basis: No reservations are accepted at most dispersed sites. "We arrived on Oct 30 to find several spaces available, many of which are convenient pull-through spaces. All are right at the waters edge with fire rings," reports Chelsea H., who visited Jackson Island in autumn.
Limited facilities: Prepare to be self-sufficient at these primitive campsites. "No potable water available from a spicket and no Verizon cell reception," warns Gregg G. about Lost Creek campground. Most sites have fire rings but lack water sources, electricity, or modern restrooms.
Tips for camping with families
Easy water access sites: Look for campgrounds with gradual water entry points. "The camp was pretty easy to find. There are fire pits, mine is full of garbage. The spots are pretty spacious but there's no privacy," observed Rachel G. at Bi-Color Campground.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds have ranger patrols for added security. "Highway Patrol and Park Rangers patrol pretty frequently so I felt really safe as a solo female," notes Natalie R. about her stay at Lake Santeelah Dispersed.
Pack for weather changes: Mountain weather can shift rapidly in this region. "It was raining and the temps were threatening to drop but we wanted one last camping trip before winter. I am glad we chose this spot," shares Victor S. about camping at Sourwood Campground in cooler months.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most free camping areas near Kingston accommodate smaller rigs only. "This is a great spot in the river. Picnic tables, fire ring, pit toilet and all you hear is the river at night," reports Charles H. about Lost Creek, which can fit small trailers but not large RVs.
Level parking considerations: Finding level ground can be challenging. "All of the sites had solid packed ground so it would not be hard to level whatever rig you use," mentions Victor S. about Sourwood Campground, adding that "It would absolutely NOT be a good location for a class A motorhome but maybe some of the smaller class C's could get settled in there."
