Dispersed camping near Monteagle, Tennessee includes over a dozen primitive sites in the greater Chattanooga area, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,900 feet. Many sites experience seasonal closures during winter hunting months, particularly from December through March. Forest roads leading to these rustic camping areas can become impassable after rainfall, with clay-based soil creating slick conditions.
What to do
Fishing at forest ponds: Davis Pond in Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed offers largemouth bass fishing opportunities. "Caught 4 largemouth bass in about 15 minutes of fishing on the pond, largest being about a 1lb," notes camper Nate H.
Hiking regional trails: The trails near Walls of Jericho Trailhead Campsite serve as access to multiple wilderness areas. "The trailhead campsite is a short walk from the parking lot, but makes for a great basecamp for exploring the area," shares Steve V., who found the site "large enough to accommodate many tents."
Cave exploration: Primitive camping at Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA provides access to geological features. "It has a blue hole and caves no electricity or running water but the camp sites are pretty good," explains Michael M., who appreciates the handicap access areas available for dispersed RV camping.
What campers like
Seclusion in large forests: Campers seeking isolation often prefer Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp. "We stayed at the Davis Pond Campground which is about a 15min drive back into the park. If you want to stay here you have to be there before dark as they close the gates at dark," explains one visitor who enjoyed the private setting.
Fall foliage viewing: Autumn transforms the forests around rustic Monteagle camping areas. "We came here to camp among the turning trees one September. It is a huge area and I didn't see any camping other than primitive tent sites," reports Kelly M., who recommends October visits for peak colors.
Proximity to water features: The Tennessee Wall Camp offers sites near waterways. "There is a parking lot right off the road after a fun ~30 minute drive through residential roads right on the water, then sites with fire pits are scattered throughout a small clearing," reports Suzie K., who found "plenty of firewood to collect on site."
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect access: Many dispersed camping areas close during hunting seasons. "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.
Varied site availability: Spots can be limited at certain locations like Blue Hole Dispersed. "We stayed 3 days 2 nights here in our 21' pop up camper with our generator. Road is pretty well maintained, spots are good size, some only large enough for tent/car camping," reports Ava R.
Restroom limitations: Toilet facilities at rustic sites require low expectations. "The camp sites are first come, first serve. They are free. Only 2 sites with tables. If you like dispersed camping you'll probably enjoy it. If you prefer a campground, this is not for you," advises Sarah H.
Tips for camping with families
Noise considerations: Families should prepare for potential noise from recreational vehicles. "There's some good spots in the backcountry if you can find them, but be prepared to search quite a bit. 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," warns Tucker K.
Wildlife encounters: Insect activity varies by location and season. "It was quiet and private. Not buggy," notes Peyton P. about Prentice Cooper State Forest, while Richard C. warns about ticks at other locations: "Stepped out just to see the clearance on a turn and got in with 4 ticks on me."
Campsite privacy: Most rustic sites near Monteagle offer minimal separation between camping parties. "We really enjoyed our night tent camping here... There was another group of campers at a spot fairly close to us making some noise, but not too late into the night. With respectful campers nearby, this is a great spot to spend a relaxing night," explains a Tennessee Wall Camp visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite presents challenges for larger vehicles. "Read that there was a drive-in camp site at this location. Upon arrival, we found a parking lot with a fence all around it. There were a few fire rings in the parking lot," shares Kevin C., who was disappointed with the setup.
Surface conditions: RVers report mixed experiences with ground stability. "It is a bit muddy but it is manageable," notes Ava R. about Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp, where approximately 12 free spots are available near the hunters entrance.
Generator usage: Some dispersed areas permit generator use for RV camping. "We have our 21' pop up camper with our generator," reports one camper about their multi-day stay, noting they were "never bothered" despite the noise source.
