Dispersed camping near Livingston, Tennessee occurs mainly within wildlife management areas and forest service lands. The terrain consists of Cumberland Plateau ridges and valleys at elevations between 800-1,500 feet. Primitive sites typically offer basic fire rings but lack amenities such as potable water, maintained roads, or sanitation facilities. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, requiring campers to prepare for frozen ground conditions.
What to do
Wildlife observation opportunities: Catoosa Wildlife Management Area includes Bi-Color Campground and offers extensive wildlife viewing. "This area is beautiful almost all times of the year! Plenty of wildlife and lots of shady areas," notes John B., who camped at Bi-Color Campground.
Water recreation access: Some dispersed sites provide stream access for fishing or paddling during warmer months. Nicholas mentions that Bi-Color is a "Solid location for a night or a whole weekend... This camp is perfect for the fam as it can accommodate RV sized vehicles."
Winter exploration: Cold weather camping offers unique experiences with frozen landscapes. Matthew H. describes his January experience at Trace Branch Dispersed: "The entire river was frozen over and ponds were frozen too... We left our site unattended for hours to check out the streams and rivers and nothing was missing."
What campers like
Creek-side sites: Several dispersed camping areas feature water access. Pam B. recalls her experience at Trace Branch: "One picnic table and fire pit. Dispersed camping. We took our portable firepit and sat by the creek for a beautiful evening."
Privacy in off-seasons: While hunting seasons bring crowds, other periods offer solitude. John B. notes about Bi-Color Campground: "Only saw one other camper on our trip this weekend so it was very peaceful."
Spacious sites: Many dispersed areas accommodate multiple vehicle setups. Nicholas points out that at Bi-Color, "the sites are spacious" and can fit larger vehicles, making them suitable for various camping styles.
What you should know
Road conditions can be challenging: Access roads to dispersed sites often have limitations. Michael W. warns about Cordell Hull Horseback Trails: "Dirt rd... washboard out was north to Rock Creek campground steep downhill grade narrow. My opinion not for 5th wheel."
Hunting season crowds: During hunting seasons, campgrounds fill with hunters. Rachel G. reports: "Rifle season starts Nov 20. I'm 10 days early, and was a bit surprised just how many hunters are already here... Lots of RVs."
Variable ground conditions: Site surfaces change with weather. Nicholas cautions: "Only word of caution is that the ground can get a bit muddy, so try to find something dry."
Livestock encounters: Some camping areas experience unexpected animal visitors. Robert W. mentions: "Also a random heard of cattle strols through every now and again."
Tips for camping with families
Pack adequate water: No potable water exists at dispersed sites. John B. advises: "There was no accessible water near by so make sure you bring your own provisions."
Be prepared for wildlife activity: Nighttime brings increased wildlife sounds and movement. Robert W. from Bi-Color Campground notes: "My dog snd I stayed for 2 nights and 2 days. Lots of wildlife sounds at night."
Check site conditions: Prior campers may leave trash behind. Matthew H. reports: "Lots of beer bottles left over and shattered so I have to pick up the trash before letting my dog out."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Finding level, appropriate sites requires scouting. Michael W. cautions: "Didn't stay. To far out for me... My opinion not for 5th wheel."
Winter preparation: Cold weather camping requires specialized equipment. At Trace Branch Dispersed, Matthew H. recalls: "You can only set up your tent on the designated tent pad, luckily we had heavy duty stakes that could get through the ground."
Designated areas only: Stay in established sites to minimize environmental impact and avoid conflicts. Robert W. notes at Bi-Color: "The GPS coordinates will get you directly to where you want to go there's probably about 10 to 15 campsites."
