Best Dispersed Camping near Tullahoma, TN

Dispersed camping near Tullahoma, Tennessee centers primarily around Prentice Cooper State Forest, where several primitive camping areas exist without developed facilities. The forest offers multiple free camping zones, including sites near Davis Pond and the Hunter Check Station area. Additional dispersed camping options include the Walls of Jericho area across the Alabama border and Tennessee Wall Camp. These areas provide basic backcountry camping experiences on public lands with minimal infrastructure.

Access to many dispersed sites requires navigation on unpaved forest roads. Prentice Cooper State Forest features gravel roads extending approximately 5-7 miles into the camping areas, with some routes requiring high-clearance vehicles. Several reviews note the Davis Pond area requires slow navigation on well-maintained but unpaved roads. Seasonal closures affect most camping areas between December and March. No hookups or services are available at any dispersed sites. Campers must pack out all trash and come prepared with necessary supplies, as stores and facilities are limited in the vicinity.

The camping experience varies across locations, with Prentice Cooper State Forest providing the most seclusion. The forest contains multiple clearings with established fire rings, particularly around Davis Pond where fishing opportunities exist. According to one visitor, "If you want seclusion, this is your spot." Another camper noted, "There's a gravel lot next to the pond which is where we set up our rooftop tent on surprisingly 0° incline." Wildlife sightings are common, with one camper reporting a copperhead snake near the pond area. ATV and off-road vehicle traffic is frequent during daylight hours on weekends but prohibited after dark. Cell service is generally available at the Walls of Jericho trailhead but may be limited in more remote forest areas.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Tullahoma, Tennessee (5)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Tullahoma, TN

5 Photos of 5 Tullahoma Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Tullahoma, TN

25 Reviews of 5 Tullahoma 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.

  • 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.

  • dolphmike The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite

    Quite

    Quite at night, but the primitive camping area is overgrown, and I have seen a lot of trash in the woods. Stayed one night just to hike the trail the next morning.


Guide to Tullahoma

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Tullahoma?

Free dispersed camping near Tullahoma is available at Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed, which offers multiple camping areas spread throughout the forest. This large forest provides secluded spots around a pond area and near the ranger station. Another option is Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp, located just outside the hunters entrance with approximately 12 free spots. While these sites require some driving from Tullahoma, they offer genuine dispersed camping experiences in beautiful natural settings without fees.

Are there any restrictions or permits needed for dispersed camping in Tullahoma?

Dispersed camping at Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no permits required. The sites are located near the trailhead parking area, providing easy access for hikers. At Tennessee Wall Camp, sites with fire pits are scattered throughout a clearing and similarly don't require permits. However, always check for seasonal hunting restrictions or temporary closures before your trip, especially during hunting seasons. Standard dispersed camping rules apply: pack out all trash, use existing fire rings, and follow Leave No Trace principles.

What amenities are available at Tullahoma dispersed camping sites?

Dispersed camping sites near Tullahoma offer minimal amenities, staying true to the primitive camping experience. At Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite, you'll find basic clearings with small fire pits near the parking area. Water access requires walking down the trail a short distance. The sites feature level ground suitable for tents, and some areas have trees appropriate for hammock camping. Most dispersed sites in the region provide nothing beyond a clearing and sometimes a basic fire ring. Bring everything you need including water, food, waste disposal bags, and all camping equipment. Cell service is typically unreliable, so plan accordingly.