Primitive camping near Harrison, Tennessee centers on remote locations in the Cherokee National Forest and wildlife management areas. Most sites lie between 35-50 miles from Harrison at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,500 feet. Winter access to many dispersed sites is restricted, with Prentice Cooper State Forest areas closed between December and March as noted by camper Raymond H.: "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."
What to do
Creek exploration and fishing: At Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed, Davis Pond offers surprising fishing opportunities. Camper Nate H. reports: "Caught 4 largemouth bass in about 15 minutes of fishing on the pond, largest being about a 1lb." The area also features trails leading to waterfalls.
Swimming in clear water: The Conasauga River Camp provides excellent water activities in summer months. Grayce F. notes: "Lovely little spot next to a very swimmable and warm crystal clear river - very popular with locals, and I imagine would be packed on weekends."
Hiking mountain trails: For more challenging terrain, the backcountry near Jack's River Falls Trail offers strenuous hiking with scenic rewards. Anna R. shares: "This is a tough trail but good for teens looking to challenge themselves in the back country. The views are amazing with rock falls."
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The Ball Field Dispersed Camping Area provides exceptional night sky viewing. Tyler J. remarks: "I searched on terrain maps for some of the best south facing skies for a great view of the belt of the milky way. Go here on a new moon night in the summer and you're sure to have a great night of uninterrupted beauty!"
Solitude and quiet: Many campers value the remote nature of Lost Creek Campground, which sits 7 miles down a gravel forest road. Brittany S. writes: "This campground is incredibly clean + quiet—and completely free. It's in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by forest, with easy creek access, and the Benton McKaye trail running directly beside it."
Fall foliage viewing: Seasonal color changes enhance primitive camping experiences. Kelly M. from Prentice Cooper notes: "We came here to camp among the turning trees one September. The fall colors were off the hook but might be even better in October."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many dispersed sites have restricted access during winter months. Raymond H. warns about Prentice Cooper: "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."
Wildlife management rules: Hunting seasons affect camping experiences. Lori H. advises: "Prentice Cooper WMA is a great place if you're looking to be in the wilderness. Keep in mind, this is a wildlife management area, so If you are not hunting, might want to avoid it during hunting season."
Weekend noise factors: Several areas experience increased traffic on weekends. At Blue Hole Dispersed, Ava R. reports: "We stayed 3 days 2 nights here in our 21' pop up camper with our generator. We were never bothered and it's right down the road from blue hole and Ellison Cave trail."
Bathroom facilities: Don't expect modern amenities. At Davis Pond, Lori H. cautions: "DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT even think of entering the 'restroom' at Davis Pond. They really should demolish it. Completely disgusting. And creepy. So be advised, there is no USABLE restroom, you are truly roughing it!"
Tips for camping with families
Plan for creek activities: Tennessee Wall Camp offers family-friendly sites near water. Suzie K. shares: "We really enjoyed our night tent camping here. 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."
Pack appropriate footwear: River access points require special consideration. Campers at the Conasauga River Camp recommend bringing "river walking shoes" for children to safely explore.
Choose accessible sites: For families with young children, Davis Pond in Prentice Cooper offers relatively easy access. Peyton P. notes: "You can stay at either Hunter's check campground or Davis Pond. If you want to stay at davis pond you have to get there before dark."
Consider wildlife encounters: Bear activity requires proper food storage. Multiple campers mention bears visiting sites, particularly at higher elevations.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance limitations: Most dispersed sites require careful consideration of vehicle capabilities. Ava R. describes the Blue Hole Dispersed access: "Road is pretty well maintained, spots are good size, some only large enough for tent/car camping."
Small RV considerations: Larger RVs struggle to access most sites, but smaller units can manage some areas. Brittany S. notes that Lost Creek sites "can accommodate tents and small RVs, complete with concrete picnic tables and a fire ring."
Generator use policies: Rules vary by location, with some sites prohibiting generators. Verify restrictions before traveling, as several campers mention using generators at specific sites.
