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Best Dispersed Camping near Tracy City, TN

30 Reviews

Prentice Cooper State Forest offers free dispersed camping near Tracy City, Tennessee with multiple primitive camping areas accessible by forest roads. The main locations include Hunter's Check Station campground near the entrance and Davis Pond campground, requiring a 5-7 mile drive on gravel roads. Both areas accommodate tents, while Davis Pond provides a more secluded setting adjacent to a small fishing pond. Many spots feature fire rings but minimal other amenities.

Access to Davis Pond requires arriving before dark as gates close at sunset, and high-clearance vehicles are recommended for the deeper forest roads. A recent review mentioned, "There are about 12 spots and it wasn't crowded when we came on a Saturday." The forest allows backcountry camping in certain areas, though finding suitable pull-off sites requires exploration. Campers should be prepared for primitive conditions - the restroom facilities at Davis Pond are notoriously poor, with one visitor noting they "should demolish it. Completely disgusting." The forest typically closes most camping areas between December and March, and weekends see increased traffic from OHV users on the forest's trail system.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Tracy City, Tennessee (7)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Tracy City, TN

6 Photos of 7 Tracy City Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Tracy City, TN

30 Reviews of 7 Tracy City Campgrounds

  • Cole T.
    May. 14, 2021

    Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed

    Great

    Prentice Cooper is an amazing place and offers two campgrounds and several backcountry camping spots. There is a campground not too far after pulling in the gravel road that has some really nice spots. The other campground requires you to drive down a gravel road for approximately 7 miles and then down some trails that require high clearance. This campground is nice and tooked into the woods with a pond nearby. There are several OHV trails in prentice Cooper and the place can get very crowded on the weekends. Definitely recommend going during the week.

  • Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 1, 2021

    Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite

    Small boring site

    This site is 3 separate clearings near the trailhead and parking with small fire pits. They work in a pinch if you get here late and don’t want to hike in or if you want to car camp and hike to the falls without gear. Be aware that you will have to go a little ways down the trail to find water.

  • Steve V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 20, 2019

    Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite

    Convenient Trailhead Camping

    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. There are also trees that would be suitable for hammock camping. The site is on the edge of an overlook of the canyon and has multiple fire rings if there are multiple groups there. This site and trailhead serves both the Walls of Jericho trail and the Bear Den Point Loop Trail. 

    This is primitive camping so no bathhouse, but there is a porta-john in the trailhead parking lot. The site is a good distance from any convenient stores or grocery stores so plan accordingly. We found good cell phone service with Verizon at this site. Trash cans are located in the trailhead parking lot. Please pack out your trash from the campsite.

  • William Andrew C.
    May. 1, 2021

    Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite

    Not a lot of options near the parking lot for hammocks

    The only decent spot for hammocks is the little campsite that is right in front of the parking lot. We went over to the clearing just north of the parking lot, but there were no good spots. The clearing was extremely overgrown, as was the tree line all around the clearing. At the site directly in front of the parking lot, you can really only get two hammocks, unless you want to stack your hammocks vertically. You'll have to tie both hammocks to the same tree at one end, and then use two trees on the other side. There is no water near this site. This site is OK if you need to be near the parking lot or don't want to hike your gear in and out. Otherwise, you're way better off going down to one of the other sites.

  • Michael M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2022

    Blue Hole Dispersed- Crockford-Pigeon Mountain WMA

    Good dispersed camping at the blue hole

    It has a blue hole an caves no electricity or running water but the camp sites are pretty good. An the do have a handicap access area for rvs to do disperse camping also an parking for the bluehole ...no one to bother you!

  • Ava R.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 13, 2023

    Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp

    Quiet but muddy

    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.

  • S
    Jul. 16, 2016

    Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed

    Dispersed Camping in Prentice Cooper State Forest

    We loved exploring Prentice Cooper State Forest! What a gem! We actually stayed in one of the camping areas, but next time we'd like to backpack instead. We ran a bunch of the trails - enjoyed the views - wonderful spot.

  • Arden S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 19, 2018

    Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed

    Seclusion

    The forest is beautiful but also huge. You can definitely get lost driving around or hiking. If you're looking for a quiet place to camp near Chattanooga this is it.

  • Blake C.
    Nov. 16, 2020

    Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite

    An exercise in packing

    The Walls of Jehrico trail offers a handful of first-come/first-serve primitive campsites set adjacent to two separate water sources (streams).  Any equipment must be carried in and out which makes for a perfect backpacking experience.  

    Your campsite offers little privacy due to trail proximity but that should not distract from a wonderful experience.

    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.

Guide to Tracy City

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Tracy City, Tennessee, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots to unwind and explore the great outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, campers can enjoy the tranquility of the forest while engaging in activities like hiking and wildlife observation.

Dispersed campers should check out Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed

  • Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed features a variety of tent sites nestled near a peaceful frog pond, perfect for those seeking a quiet escape.
  • Accessing the sites can be a bit rough, making it ideal for adventurous campers, especially those on motorcycles.
  • The forest allows campfires, so you can enjoy cozy evenings under the stars while roasting marshmallows.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Tracy City, Tennessee

  • For a free camping experience, consider the Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp, which offers several spots that are not crowded, even on weekends.
  • Be prepared for muddy conditions, especially after rain, but the manageable terrain makes it a worthwhile visit.
  • Remember to bring your own water, as there are no drinking water facilities available at this site.

Scenic views for dispersed campers at Tennessee Wall Camp

  • The Tennessee Wall Camp offers stunning views and well-maintained sites, making it a favorite among campers looking for picturesque landscapes.
  • This location is accessible by various means, including boat-in and hike-in options, providing a unique way to reach your camping spot.
  • Fire pits are available at the sites, allowing for enjoyable evenings spent around the fire while taking in the natural beauty surrounding you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Tracy City, TN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Tracy City, TN is Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed with a 4.1-star rating from 14 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Tracy City, TN?

TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Tracy City, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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