Dispersed camping near Tullahoma, Tennessee extends beyond the immediate vicinity of the town, with options typically located 30-45 minutes away in surrounding natural areas. These primitive sites sit within the southern Cumberland Plateau region, characterized by sandstone bluffs and mixed hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 800-1,800 feet. Most sites are accessible only during warmer months, with seasonal road closures affecting accessibility from December through March.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Davis Pond in Prentice Cooper State Forest provides decent bass fishing. One camper at Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed reported, "Caught 4 largemouth bass in about 15 minutes of fishing on the pond, largest being about a 1lb."
Hiking to waterfalls: A trailhead at Davis Pond connects to Blowing Wind Falls. According to a reviewer, "There's a trailhead that goes to blowing wind falls from the campground too," making it convenient for campers to access scenic water features without moving their vehicles.
Backpacking: The Walls of Jericho Trailhead Campsite offers access to challenging hiking trails with stream crossings. One reviewer described it as "a perfect backpacking experience" noting that "Any equipment must be carried in and out."
Rock climbing: Tennessee Wall Camp provides access to popular climbing routes. Climbers at Tennessee Wall Camp enjoy convenient access to climbing areas, with one visitor mentioning, "Great for hammocks and tents" indicating the camping area accommodates various sleeping arrangements for climbers.
What campers like
Seclusion levels: Davis Pond Campground offers significant isolation. As one camper noted, "It's basically like having your own small park in the middle of the mountains on a small bass pond. There was one other couple staying there and it was Memorial Day weekend so I would be surprised if you run into many people out there."
Natural soundscape: Many primitive sites provide peaceful evenings. A visitor at Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp mentioned the area is "Quiet but muddy" with approximately "12 spots" that weren't crowded even on weekends.
Established fire rings: Most dispersed sites feature basic fire pits. According to one camper at Tennessee Wall Camp, there are "sites with fire pits scattered throughout a small clearing" and "plenty of firewood to collect on site," reducing the need to bring your own.
Wildlife viewing: The remote settings provide opportunities to observe native species. A visitor to Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed described it as "A secluded spot in a protected forest not far from Chattanooga" where wildlife encounters are common.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most primitive camping areas are inaccessible during winter months. A reviewer at Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed warned, "99% of areas are closed between December and March. Had to turn around and find somewhere else to camp for the night."
Road conditions: Many access roads require careful navigation. One camper reported, "There's some good spots in the backcountry if you can find them, but be prepared to search quite a bit. The roads are pretty dense not many places to pull off."
Noise considerations: Some areas experience daytime recreational vehicle traffic. A visitor noted, "Night time is great but gunshots started at 6:30 at a nearby gun range and dirt bikes started hitting the roads not much later."
Bathroom facilities: Expect extremely primitive or non-existent facilities. One camper explicitly warned, "DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT even think of entering the 'restroom' at Davis Pond. They really should demolish it. Completely disgusting."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose areas with established clearings for family activities. A visitor to the Walls of Jericho area described one site as "level and large enough to accommodate many tents" with "trees that would be suitable for hammock camping."
Water access: Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite requires planning for water sources. One camper noted, "Be aware that you will have to go a little ways down the trail to find water," making it essential to bring containers for water collection.
Safety considerations: Be prepared for wildlife encounters and changing weather. A reviewer cautioned, "There is no cell service so make sure you plan accordingly and have an emergency system in place," highlighting the importance of emergency preparations when camping with children.
Supply logistics: The nearest stores are typically 20-30 minutes away. One visitor advised, "There are minimal places to stock up on necessities along the road so be sure and come equipped," emphasizing the need to bring all essential supplies.
Tips from RVers
Parking limitations: Most primitive sites near Tullahoma restrict vehicle access. A camper at Davis Pond noted, "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)."
Campsite positioning: At some locations, vehicle camping is limited to parking areas. A visitor to Walls of Jericho reported, "Upon arrival, we found a parking lot with a fence all around it. There were a few fire rings in the parking lot," indicating the need for creative campsite planning for vehicle-based campers.
Surface conditions: Level parking can be found at select locations. According to one camper with a rooftop tent: "There's a gravel lot next to the pond which is where we set up" that had a "surprisingly 0° incline," making it suitable for level vehicle camping.
