Best Dispersed Camping near Maryville, TN

Dispersed camping near Maryville, Tennessee concentrates primarily in the Cherokee National Forest and Nantahala National Forest areas, with several free primitive sites available without reservations. The region features multiple lakeside and creek-adjacent camping opportunities, including Citico Creek Area, Lake Santeetlah Dispersed, Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites, and Calderwood Lake Primitive campground. These public lands permit camping in designated dispersed areas, typically with minimal development and basic amenities.

Access to most dispersed sites requires travel on unpaved forest roads, with conditions varying from well-maintained gravel to rough terrain that may necessitate high-clearance vehicles. Many sites, particularly at Lake Santeetlah and Long Hungry Road, feature established tent pads, fire rings, and picnic tables despite their dispersed designation. Camping is generally permitted for up to 14 days, and most areas have no drinking water, hookups, or shower facilities. Several locations offer vault toilets, though many are true primitive sites requiring campers to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste.

The dispersed camping experience in this region provides direct access to mountain lakes, flowing creeks, and forest trails. Sites are typically well-spaced for privacy, with many offering waterfront locations. "Sites are very spread out and mine was fairly clean when I arrived," noted one Citico Creek visitor. Lake Santeetlah campsites are particularly popular, with one camper describing them as "very well-kept and right next to the boat launch." Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with fishing common in the lakes and streams. Cell service is limited or nonexistent in many areas, particularly at more remote sites like Lost Creek in Cherokee National Forest, where visitors report the peaceful sound of the creek is the primary nighttime noise.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Maryville, Tennessee (21)

    1. Calderwood Lake Primitive campground

    3 Reviews
    Croatan National Forest, TN
    19 miles

    "You are right in the little slickrock cover with waterfalls as white noise. unlike the other sites this one is also very flat which is best for walking. if you enjoy hiking campsite one is right on the"

    "If you are willing to bring everything with you, pack everything out, and paddle multiple miles on a nonmotorized finger lake, this is this place for you!"

    2. Lake Santeetlah Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Croatan National Forest, NC
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 479-6431

    "Campground Review:

    The Nantahala National Forest, due south of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is chock full of free semi-developed campsites – some are drive-up, some are boat-up, and"

    "We got a spot right on the lake. It was nice and quiet. The view was great for watching the sunset. I think there was a pit toilet but we didn’t check it out."

    3. Citico Creek Area

    6 Reviews
    Tallassee, TN
    22 miles
    Website

    "This campground is great for being right next to great day hikes and easy access to Citico Creek, which was just across the gravel road from our site."

    "No hookups, but a majority of the 14 sites are on the creek itself. Could not recommend Citico Creek more."

    4. Lake Santeelah Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Robbinsville, NC
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 257-4200

    "I was hoping to car camp a little closer to NOC but not in a campground but this is the closest I could find in February. I would definitely stay here again!"

    "GPS coordinates got me exactly to where I wanted to go. Lots of twists and turns going up the dragon with beautiful scenery of the trees changing colors in late October."

    5. Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

    14 Reviews
    Robbinsville, NC
    30 miles

    "Each has a picnic table, fire pit/grill, and level area for 1-2 tents (a few can accommodate more if you’re ambitious), and lake views (most have lake access if you want to put in a kayak or canoe)."

    "The only downside to this campground is that for half of the sites the parking is across the small access road. This would be most ideal for tent camping."

    6. Harold Parrish Lower Camp - Backcountry

    1 Review
    Croatan National Forest, NC
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 479-6431

    "The hike in is quite difficult. we boated into slickrock cove off of Calderwood lake and walked from there to the sites. which was only about 1.5 miles. so a lot easier than the whole 13.5 mile hike."

    7. Sourwood Campground

    4 Reviews
    Coker Creek, TN
    33 miles
    Website

    "You could pretty much drive by this place without giving it a second thought. I am glad I didn't. We got there late after 1pm. I was afraid that we were out of luck."

    "Google maps brought me to a spot 30 miles away"

    9. Beach Creek Camp

    Be the first to review!
    Croatan National Forest, NC
    23 miles

    10. Lost Creek - Cherokee NF

    9 Reviews
    Reliance, TN
    50 miles
    Website

    "The lost cove campground can be found deep in the wilderness of the Cherokee National Forest outside of Benton, TN. The campground is operated and maintained by the USFS."

    "We chose a spot next to the creek. Was clear and flowing due to a lot of rain the few days before we arrived. Sites had concrete picnic tables and a pad. We had to clean ours when we arrived."

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Showing results 1-10 of 21 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Maryville, TN

73 Reviews of 21 Maryville Campgrounds



Guide to Maryville

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Maryville, Tennessee, where nature's tranquility meets adventure. With a variety of locations to choose from, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore.

Scenic Riverfront Spots for Dispersed Campers

  • Enjoy the serene atmosphere at Citico Creek Area, where campsites are spread out along the river, providing a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
  • The Calderwood Lake Primitive campground offers stunning views and the soothing sounds of waterfalls, making it an ideal location for those seeking a scenic escape.
  • For a more secluded experience, check out Harold Parrish Lower Camp - Backcountry, which is nestled right by the water and surrounded by lush greenery.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Maryville, Tennessee

  • Always pack out what you pack in to maintain the natural beauty of places like Sourwood Campground, where visitors have noted the importance of keeping the area clean.
  • Be prepared for a lack of amenities at locations such as Lake Santeetlah Dispersed, which offers no drinking water or electric hookups, so bring all necessary supplies.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at popular areas like Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites, where sites can fill up quickly during peak seasons.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Maryville

  • Fishing enthusiasts will love the opportunities at Lake Santeetlah Dispersed, where you can catch bass and bluegills right from the shore.
  • Hiking is a must at Calderwood Lake Primitive campground, with trails leading to breathtaking waterfalls and scenic vistas.
  • For those looking to relax, Citico Creek Area provides a perfect setting for picnicking by the river, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty around you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites around Maryville, Tennessee?

Dispersed camping sites around Maryville typically offer basic amenities while maintaining their primitive nature. Lake Santeetlah Dispersed features well-laid-out and maintained sites with no hookups but provides quiet, clean camping areas. Some sites are spacious enough for RVs. Citico Creek Area offers sites with concrete picnic tables, fire pads, and bear-proof trash bins along with restroom facilities. Many dispersed sites throughout the region include fire rings or grills and picnic tables. You'll find level tent pads at several locations, with some sites offering water access for kayaks and canoes. Remember that dispersed camping typically means no electrical hookups, limited or no cell service, and pack-in/pack-out trash policies.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Maryville, TN?

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Maryville. Lost Creek - Cherokee NF offers primitive sites located about 7 miles down a well-maintained gravel road outside of Benton, TN. This USFS-maintained area features campsites along a creek. Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites provides beautiful lakeside primitive sites with established fire pits. While not in immediate proximity to Maryville, these sites are worth the drive for a true dispersed camping experience. The Cherokee National Forest and Nantahala National Forest both offer numerous free dispersed camping opportunities within driving distance of Maryville, giving you plenty of options for a no-cost outdoor adventure.

Are there any seasonal restrictions for dispersed camping in the Maryville area?

Dispersed camping around Maryville typically has seasonal considerations rather than strict restrictions. Siler Bald Trail Shelter TR 373 in the Nantahala National Forest is accessible year-round but may have limited access during winter snow events. Sourwood Campground follows typical national forest seasonal patterns with higher accessibility in spring through fall. Most dispersed sites in Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests remain open year-round, but winter access may be challenging due to road conditions, especially after snowfall or heavy rain. Spring brings high water levels and potential flooding at creek-side sites, while summer offers the most reliable access. Always check with the respective forest service office before planning winter dispersed camping trips, as conditions can change rapidly.