Dispersed camping options around Sherwood, Tennessee extend beyond the state forest to include sites in neighboring Alabama and Georgia. The area sits within the Cumberland Plateau region at elevations ranging from 600-1,800 feet with mixed hardwood forests dominating the landscape. Free camping areas typically remain open year-round except for seasonal hunting closures that affect access to some locations.
What to do
Fishing at Davis Pond: Located within Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed, this small bass pond offers productive fishing for anglers. One camper reported, "Caught 4 largemouth bass in about 15 minutes of fishing on the pond, largest being about a 1lb."
Hiking the Walls of Jericho: The Walls of Jericho Trailhead Campsite serves as a starting point for this challenging but rewarding hike. A camper explains that "The Walls of Jehrico trail offers a handful of first-come/first-serve primitive campsites set adjacent to two separate water sources (streams)."
Explore Ellison Cave Trail: Near the Blue Hole Dispersed area, you can access this notable trail system. "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."
What campers like
Secluded camping areas: The expansive forest provides privacy away from crowds. A visitor to Tennessee Wall Camp shared, "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."
Wildlife viewing: Natural habitats support diverse wildlife throughout the region. At Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed, one camper noted, "Great area for peace and quiet!"
Fall foliage viewing: The mixed hardwood forests provide exceptional autumn color displays. A visitor mentioned, "The fall colors were off the hook but might be even better in October. True to its name it is 'dispersed' with no 'main attraction' site- which is actually awesome if you're looking for seclusion."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many areas have restricted access during winter months. One camper at Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed warned, "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."
Limited facilities: Most sites lack basic amenities. At Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp, campers should know, "This is a great FREE spot right outside the hunters entrance of prentice cooper state forest. There are about 12 spots and it wasn't crowded when we came on a Saturday. It is a bit muddy but it is manageable."
Variable road conditions: Access to many camping areas requires navigating unpaved roads. At Blue Hole Dispersed, a visitor noted, "If you like dispersed camping you'll probably enjoy it. If you prefer a campground, this is not for you."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with established fire rings: Several areas offer prepared camping spots with existing fire circles. At Tennessee Wall Camp, a camper noted, "Plety of firewood to collect on site. There was another group of campers at a spot fairly close to us making some noise, but not too late into the night."
Pack all necessary supplies: Remote locations mean no nearby services. At Walls of Jericho Trailhead Campsite, a visitor cautioned, "There are minimal places to stock up on necessities along the road so be sure and come equipped. There is also no cell service so make sure you plan accordingly and have an emergency system in place."
Consider trailhead camping for easier access: Some locations offer camping near parking areas for families with young children. One camper explained, "The trailhead campsite is a short walk from the parking lot, but makes for a great basecamp for exploring the area. The campsite is level and large enough to accommodate many tents."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV-friendly options: Most free camping near Sherwood is suited for tents or small campers only. At Blue Hole Dispersed, a visitor noted they "have a handicap access area for rvs to do disperse camping also an parking for the bluehole."
High clearance recommended: Forest roads often require vehicles with good ground clearance. A visitor to Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed shared, "You have to get there before dark, and there is not access for vehicles to get into the campground so it's just tents (no overlanding, unless you're comfortable in the parking lot)."
Hunter's Check Station parking: This area provides more accessible parking for larger vehicles. According to one camper, "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."
