Best Dispersed Camping near Smithville, TN
Dispersed camping near Smithville, Tennessee is limited to select locations, with Goose Island on J. Percy Priest Lake serving as one notable option. This island campsite requires water transportation, as it is only accessible by boat, canoe, or kayak. Cordell Hull Horseback Trails area also permits some primitive camping, though this area primarily serves equestrian users. Both locations represent true primitive camping with minimal infrastructure and no developed facilities.
Access to Goose Island requires watercraft, with the island situated approximately a quarter mile from shore on J. Percy Priest Lake. No vehicle access exists, making this a true boat-in camping experience. The Cordell Hull area features more remote conditions with limited information about road quality or seasonal closures. Neither location provides drinking water, electrical hookups, or sanitary facilities. Campers must pack in all necessary supplies and pack out all waste. Fires are permitted at Goose Island but prohibited at Cordell Hull Horseback Trails.
The primitive nature of these sites appeals to campers seeking genuine backcountry experiences. Goose Island allows pets and campfires, creating opportunities for traditional camping experiences. "This is a really great place to camp if you have a way to boat out to the island. We use a canoe since it's only a quarter mile or so paddle," according to a visitor. Wildlife encounters are common, particularly on Goose Island where raccoons frequently approach campsites after dark. While these animals generally pose no danger, proper food storage remains essential. Neither location charges fees, though both require self-sufficiency and adherence to leave-no-trace principles.
