Best Dispersed Camping near Pioneer, TN

Want to go dispersed camping near Pioneer? The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Pioneer's most popular destinations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Pioneer, TN (5)

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Recent Dispersed Reviews in Pioneer

14 Reviews of 5 Pioneer Campgrounds


  • Pam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1
    Oct. 13, 2024

    Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1

    Jellico Creek 1

    There are three dispersed camp sites along this road.  We stayed at the first and largest of the three.  This first site has room for two groups.  It also has a small swimming hole with a rope swing.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
    Oct. 7, 2024

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    CLOSED.

    I rode all the way over here from Greeneville to check out the area in order to bring a group of friends camping next weekend.

    BUT the entire campground is closed. When I pulled up to the iron gate and saw the sign, it read "CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC DUE TO VANDALISM AND UNAUTHORIZED ACTIVITY"

  • Tripp A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    Closed to Public

    I drove over an hour to get here to find that it is “closed to public for vandalism”. I was very upset by this but obviously nothing I could do. Just wish I knew how to check before driving all the way. But the drive! Woah! So beautiful, I wish there was a way I could find out when it opens back up because I was very much looking forward to camping here.

  • hThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
    May. 13, 2024

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    Not too shabby for the south

    Lots of lil cozy pull offs on an easy gravel road. Lots of longer term people staying it seemed like (or just really full send camping friends lol). Many fire rings and spots by the lake. Unfortunately the other reviews are right - A decent amount of trash. There are trash cans and porta potties. I’ve seen worse porta potties at festivals but there were a few stinky ones.

  • Robert W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bi-Color Campground (Catoosa WMA)
    Nov. 14, 2023

    Bi-Color Campground (Catoosa WMA)

    Nice Little Getaway

    The GPS coordinates will get you directly to where you want to go there's probably about 10 to 15 campsites there was trash on a few of them. Overall it was a nice place to just go and get away. It is a hunter's Camp first and foremost so there were quite a few people setting up for this week's opening day but the ones I did talk to were all friendly even went and had a couple beers with one of them.

    My dog snd I stayed for 2 nights and 2 days. Lots of wildlife sounds at night.

    Also a random heard of cattle strols through every now and again.

    I'd definitely come back around this time of year!

  • Amin A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
    Aug. 27, 2023

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    Better than I expected

    So we weren't sure what we would end up finding here. I will say that there are a lot of places to camp, many many many options away from the porta potties. If you get within about 20-30 feet of those they are a bit stinky. The one camp site we chose was a great place, tons of space and well manicured. A lot of options for pull up to your campsite or park and walk to campsite spots.

    My only complaints are about the campers that stay there. The litter isn't horrible, but it's not great. It is a leave no trace place. Apparently some people have difficulty with throwing away their trash.

    When we stayed last night there was a person that kept peeling out up and down the gravel road (3/4 times) in a diesel truck at 10:00 at night. Not very courteous to all of us at the campground.

    And I was awakened at 2:00 a.m. by our camping neighbors when they were playing loud music. Also not cool, thankfully they stopped shortly after

    Overall we were very pleased with this campground, beautiful views, it was hard choosing one spot. We will be coming back, and hopefully we won't have loud campers next time.

  • Karli P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
    Jul. 23, 2023

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    So Much Potential!

    We arrived at this dispersed campground at around 7:30 on a Saturday evening in July. It was pretty packed but since we were planning on leaving early the next morning, we took a family’s offer of taking over their spot as they left.

    We use a roof top tent so unfortunately we weren’t able to camp at the actual site, instead we set up on an almost level gravel parking area that had a private trail to the actual camp site. There were garbage cans and a port-a-potty set up right there, which is why this site lost some stars. Even though these facilities were provided, people didn’t use the garbages and there was a lot of garbage on the ground, including broken glass that made us worry about our pup’s paws. Also, the port-a-potty was pretty yucky..neither my husband nor I were willing to use it.

    Now, I want to reiterate that this is a geographically beautiful spot! Humans just need to take better care of it 💚

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Swain Ridge
    Jul. 6, 2023

    Swain Ridge

    Gravel only

    Not able to camp in open field. 1000$ fine for doing so. Camping at trailhead or on road side is fine.

  • Sierra E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Swain Ridge
    May. 23, 2023

    Swain Ridge

    Quiet Pasture But Ticks

    It was wonderfully secluded, we used the car to “mow” the grass down, and set up fine. But we did have ticks EVERYWHERE and poison ivy along the edges of the pasture. We had a ball we were playing with roll in there. Outside for normal outside life inconvenience; it was a beautiful, quiet pasture. We were even blessed with see several bats fly around at night. There was no light pollution so we had a great time star gazing!

  • Michael W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bi-Color Campground (Catoosa WMA)
    May. 21, 2023

    Bi-Color Campground (Catoosa WMA)

    Primitive at its best

    Didn’t stay. To far out for me. Lots of knats. Dirt rd I , washboard out was north to Rock Creek campground steep downhill grade narrow. My opinion not for 5th wheel. No cell for miles

  • Rachel G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Bi-Color Campground (Catoosa WMA)
    Nov. 10, 2022

    Bi-Color Campground (Catoosa WMA)

    Jammed packed with hunters

    I’d like to say this spot is beautiful, but I’ve seen better. Rifle season starts Nov 20. I’m 10 days early, and was a bit surprised just how many hunters are already here. I feel like I’m the only solo woman here, also seem to be the only Van lifer. Lots of RVs. 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. I won’t be staying here long.

  • John B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bi-Color Campground (Catoosa WMA)
    May. 15, 2022

    Bi-Color Campground (Catoosa WMA)

    Great Dispersed Primitive camping

    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. There was no accessible water near by so make sure you bring your own provisions. Haven’t got to explore much around the area by hiking. Found a nice creek a few miles on down the road. Other then that, great area and will most definitely be back soon!


Drive Time


Guide to Pioneer

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Pioneer, Tennessee, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy a more rustic and secluded experience. With a variety of locations to choose from, campers can immerse themselves in the great outdoors while enjoying the freedom that comes with dispersed camping.

Scenic Spots for Dispersed Campers

  • The Trace Branch Dispersed - Rock Creek Road offers a picturesque setting along the shores of Rock Creek, perfect for those looking to unwind by the water.
  • For a unique experience, the Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1 features a small swimming hole with a rope swing, making it an ideal spot for families and friends to enjoy some fun in the sun.
  • If you're seeking solitude, the Bi-Color Campground (Catoosa WMA) provides a peaceful environment surrounded by wildlife, perfect for those who appreciate nature's sounds at night.

Activities While Free Camping Near Pioneer

  • Campers at the Redbird Boat Ramp can take advantage of the boat ramp for fishing or kayaking, making it a great spot for water enthusiasts.
  • The Swain Ridge area is perfect for hiking and exploring the surrounding trails, offering a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the local flora and fauna.
  • For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the Trace Branch Dispersed - Rock Creek Road is a great place to set up a portable firepit and spend the evening by the creek, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Jellico Creek

  • The Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1 is well-reviewed for its spacious sites, accommodating multiple groups while still providing a sense of privacy.
  • This location is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure, making it a great choice for families.
  • With no reservations required, the Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1 offers the flexibility to camp spontaneously, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Pioneer, TN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Pioneer, TN is Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1 with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Pioneer, TN?

    TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Pioneer, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.