Top Free Dispersed Camping near Reliance, TN

Are you planning a dispersed camping trip to Reliance? We've got you covered. Here you'll find a diverse selection of places to camp, including remote dispersed camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the trees or wide open spaces, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect dispersed campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Reliance, TN (34)

Showing results 1-10 of 34 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Reliance

75 Reviews of 34 Reliance Campgrounds


  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Top Dispersed Site
    May. 17, 2024

    Panther Top Dispersed Site

    Amazing spot with GREAT views

    I had 3 bars of AT&T which worked well. The view from the shore was amazing and in my opinion comparable to some spots in Hawaii. It was nice and quiet, chilly at night, and not too far from murphy. We also hiked up to a nearby fire tower and it was a fun little hike. 10/10 will be returning.

    (I just got a new drone and I made a fun little video of the campsite and the hike we did.)

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jones Creek Dispersed Campground
    Apr. 21, 2024

    Jones Creek Dispersed Campground

    Beautiful but popular

    Dont park where the map tells you, you can drive to the locations on a decent narrow dirt road.

    When we first arrived, the camp site we chose was on the river, but also off the main road. This area seems to be popular for local dirt bikers, but we seen people fishing and relaxing all the same.

    I would have gave 5 stars, but these sites are well used and has years of careless debris around. We also heard some folks shooting guns( in the distance), which isn’t a problem for us, but reduced the relaxing nature of the visit with all this combined.

    This river is amazing, low current makes its easy to walk in and there are a few little water falls we enjoyed hanging on for a bit.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson's Island Campground - Dispersed
    Apr. 14, 2024

    Jackson's Island Campground - Dispersed

    Beautiful, but stuff stolen

    Beautiful spot, early - mid April plenty of room & privacy.

    Left to go on a hike & came back to our chairs & wood being stolen. Disappointing, but also the chance you take when leaving your personal items unattended.

    They took 2 bundles of wood, but left us some. Plenty of wood on the ground to use. Felt safe overall.

  • amanda R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites
    Apr. 1, 2024

    Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

    Great site!

    This was such a nice quiet campground. We arrived around 8am and got the first campsite we saw. This is the most established dispersed campsite that I’ve stayed at as it has a fire circle, a grill and a picnic table. It’s very quiet and very few cars passed. There’s a walking/hiking trail across the lake where we saw some hikers and some people on horseback. The site was very clean minus a few pieces of trash that we later picked up. The dogs loved it because our site was right on the lake. We drove down the gravel road to check out the other campsites and they all seem great if you’re tent camping! We car camped and our campsite was perfect because it had a parking space right in front of it whereas the other sites had parking spaces across the road. Overall a great place. I can’t wait to go back!

  • Natalie R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Santeelah
    Feb. 9, 2024

    Lake Santeelah

    Quiet, nice spaces, and clean!

    Such a great find! 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! Very quiet and clean and the sites are very well laid out and maintained! No hook ups of any kind but it’s worth it! Highway Patrol and Park Rangers patrol pretty frequently so I felt really safe as a solo female. I still took all the safety precautions but didn’t feel as necessary as some.

  • WDRoberson The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Santeelah
    Nov. 7, 2023

    Lake Santeelah

    Well maintained free camping

    We were fortunate to get a site that allowed us to pull the car right into the site for our roof top tent. Not very far to walk to reach the lake and the fishing wasn’t bad at all. Bass and Bluegills. Fairly quiet besides the rice burners heading to Tail of the Dragon. Very good overall.

  • Robert W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Santeelah
    Oct. 27, 2023

    Lake Santeelah

    Stunning 😍

    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. There are a handful of Lots located right along the lake with a beautiful view of the mountains in the distance. My dog absolutely loved how much space she had to roam around and how clear the water was excellent for swimming.

    Some of the plots you can only fit one tent others you could fit up to three or four

  • Angie A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson's Island Campground - Dispersed
    Oct. 19, 2023

    Jackson's Island Campground - Dispersed

    Excellent find

    Dispersed camping with a glorious v view. Please pack out what you pack in. Some trash obvious yet cleaner now than past reviews. Camped right on the bank. Fire pits and concrete pads at most sites. Dumpster on site so please use it. Easy to find and private spacious sites available.

  • Robert N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Top Dispersed Site
    Sep. 9, 2023

    Panther Top Dispersed Site

    Panther Top Dispersed

    Great spot right on the little lake. You can hear the gun range from the Camp Spot, but it is barely noticeable. There are two main spots right on the lake that are set up for tent camping. My overland rig fit in the small parking area fine, but I had to find a few rocks to level my truck so the rooftop tent was level. It is obviously a spot that locals come to party on the weekends but I had no issues. There looks like there are only 2 primary camping spots with fire rings and tent pads. My spot had a picnic table and two tent pads, a pole for your lantern and was just feet from the lake. Lots of fish jumping and I caught a 1 pound large mouth bass on a silver spinning lure. Over all a great spot. No bugs, but you will likely need to bring firewood, as all of the fallen trees had been scavenged. Since there are only two spot, definitely have a backup plan, especially on the weekends.

  • Steve K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites
    Jul. 16, 2023

    Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

    Field test truck camping

    First site(L1)was open so I took it. I spent two nights there. First time dispersed camping in National Forest and truck camping. Even though I've been camping my whole life, all my equipment was new so it was a learning experience. 😁 Parking was pretty level, but behind my rear wheels it declined toward the lake. The tent pad, picnic table and fire ring was on level ground. It was really quiet during the day, but there were some very loud frogs(?) during the night, enough to wake you up. 2nd night I played music and I slept good. Lol If your GPS says that you have reached your destination, you probably have passed the gravel road. Once on gravel road, veer to the right and you will pass the cemetery on your left, then you'll see kiosk. Sign shows you have to register there at the kiosk. I enjoyed my time there and hopefully can go back again this year. Hope y'all are enjoying the great outdoors. LIV'N!

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Santeelah
    Feb. 25, 2023

    Lake Santeelah

    Great spot

    I will say there isn’t a lot of campsites but the ones they have are great. Fishing from the banks is possible and it was relatively clean and quiet. Definitely worth a visit

  • Ethan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites
    Jan. 16, 2023

    Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

    Nice camping ground but closed

    This is a good camping ground especially if you get the one right off the lake. When we arrived the campground was closed for vehicles. So we walk in a took around. Great spots right of the lake. They say it won't open till April. There is a another campsite less than 4 miles up the road you can camp at, but over all good area. Any vehicle can get to location its bumpy bit that's bc its half gravel half dirt. Keeeepp exploring the wilderness must be explored. Ps. Clean up after yourself

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Santeelah
    Jan. 4, 2023

    Lake Santeelah

    Great free place with amazing views

    This camp site is free to use and it is a great little place. The sites are huge like you could probably fit a few different set ups in each site. It’s a little confusing if you get here in the dark while it’s pouring rain but I just took the first right onto the gravel road where the bathrooms are and there is 3 sites down there with greats views of the lake.

  • Andy K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Santeetlah
    Jan. 2, 2023

    Lake Santeetlah

    Lakeside site with good view

    Nice lakeside side with good lake views. Park next to site. Toilet facility available, site next to marina on north side. Cellphone service with Verizon ok 1or 2 bars.

  • Andy K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Santeetlah
    Jan. 2, 2023

    Lake Santeetlah

    Nice sites with good views of the lake

    Stayed at the site next to the marina on the North side. Lake sudd access and can park next to the site. Also has a toilet facility. Cell phone service with Verizon was 1 to 2 bars. Sometimes good others not so.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson's Island Campground - Dispersed
    Nov. 1, 2022

    Jackson's Island Campground - Dispersed

    End of season stay in autumn leaves

    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. There's trash everywhere; we filled a 10 gal trash bag in a matter of 10 minutes. We've been enjoying our stay but sadly we're informed by a man driving around to be out by Nov 3 as they're closing the site for the season. Luckily this timing is fine for our plans but was a surprise as nothing is mentioned on sites or sign at entrance about this. Beautiful place, peaceful this time of year. Husband caught a bass & dogs enjoyed the shallow edge of the lake at our site. Would stay again!

  • Karen
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Santeelah
    Oct. 21, 2022

    Lake Santeelah

    Nice serene lakeside spots

    It's an absolutely beautiful lake in the forest. The trees are turning and the sky is blue. Only drawback is the Pine Ridge Rd dispersed camping is along the roadside. Not really private. You have to walk to your site if you want to set up a tent. No room for a large RV. But the scenery is beautiful. AT&T works just fine!

  • Gabrielle D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area
    Oct. 16, 2022

    Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area

    Group camping

    First location was Hickey Gap, we got there around 1 on a Friday and it was full so we headed to the primitive group camping site. Gravel road, lots of rocks included, and dust but if your not worried about your car do it! We had an suv but I saw a handful of sedans that made it up. We got to the group site at 1:20 or so and there was only one person at first but slowly people start trickling in. We stayed 2 nights but a lot of people stayed for 1. The look out driving up is awesome and the lake it gorgeous. Watch out for bears.

  • Tyler T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Santeelah
    Oct. 8, 2022

    Lake Santeelah

    Lake view all around

    There are several camps all just off the road. They all get right up to the lake with area for tent and fire pit

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Goforth Creek Campground G
    Sep. 30, 2022

    Goforth Creek Campground G

    Backup option

    This is an ok option if there are no other sites available. It is just a cleared-out area near the trail but doesn’t have an established fire pit. The only nice feature is that it is further up the trail and more private as well as has easy access to water.

  • Brent L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sourwood Campground
    Jul. 22, 2022

    Sourwood Campground

    Great little spot

    Great area to camp. Only complaints are having to spend an hour picking up others trash that they left. Also reverify your directions. Google maps brought me to a spot 30 miles away

  • Claire K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Calderwood Lake Primitive campground
    Jul. 15, 2022

    Calderwood Lake Primitive campground

    I haven’t seen anything like it!

    It was beautiful everything about it. We put our boat in at the magazine branch boat dock and only had to canoe maybe 30 minutes to the first camp spot (which on a friday afternoon we were very fortunate to get). Unlike the other camp sites we’ve seen there camp site one doesn’t have any picnic tables, which is the only downside to it. 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 slickrock trail and if you take it about 1.5 miles you’ll reach wolfcat falls which has a big swimming hole at the bottom. lots of fun! slickrock trial also has about 7 more sites that we pasted on that 1.5 mile hike. lots to do here and absolutely beautiful and for the middle of june an amazing temperature.

    Happy Camping!🏕



Guide to Reliance

Camping near Reliance, Tennessee, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities that can make for a memorable getaway. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails in the area. For instance, at Fort Mountain State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy hiking trails that lead to panoramic views and historical sites. One camper mentioned, "Lots of good hiking trails: history, panoramic views and a nice lake trail."
  • Fishing and Swimming: Many campgrounds, like Harrison Bay State Park Campground, offer access to lakes for fishing and swimming. A reviewer noted, "There is also a 'beach' you can hang out and swim at which is beautiful and is great for kids."
  • Kayaking and Paddleboarding: At Gee Creek Campground, you can rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the scenic waters. One visitor shared, "Great spot close to some of our favorite kayaking rivers."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities. A review for Chester Frost Park highlighted, "Decent shower and bathroom facilities. Great views of Lake Chickamauga."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites that provide privacy. A camper at Chilhowee Recreation Area mentioned, "Large private sites throughout. Flush toilets and hot showers nearby."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts often receive praise for their helpfulness. One visitor at Indian Boundary said, "The staff are super friendly at the camp store."

What you should know

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have spotty cell service. A camper at Thunder Rock Campground noted, "Service isn't available within the campgrounds, and requires about 10 minute drive to a scenic overlook for workable service."
  • Seasonal Availability: Some campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Morganton Point Campground operates from April 14 to November 3.
  • Bear Activity: Campers should be aware of wildlife, especially bears. A review from Fort Mountain State Park Campground mentioned, "Bears were active in the area."

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds or swimming areas. At Gee Creek Campground, one family enjoyed the "playground, and the fairytale story walk."
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds can get busy on weekends. A reviewer at Chester Frost Park mentioned, "This campground is a very busy place though. Sites are pretty close together."
  • Pack Essentials: Make sure to bring everything you need, as some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A visitor at Parksville Lake RV Campground noted, "There is a bath house in the center of the loop (didn't use) and water spigots located throughout to fill your tanks."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Ensure your RV fits the campsite. A camper at Thunder Rock Campground mentioned, "Camp sites are level and shaded, and include at least one lantern pole, table, and a fire ring."
  • Book Ahead: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at Chattanooga North-Cleveland KOA advised, "Make reservations online as it fills up on the weekends."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have full hookups. A review for Indian Boundary stated, "There are electric hookups, but not water."

Camping near Reliance, Tennessee, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Reliance, TN is Lost Creek - Cherokee NF with a 4.8-star rating from 9 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 34 dispersed camping locations near Reliance, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.