Dispersed camping near Shiloh, Tennessee requires some travel beyond the immediate vicinity of the historic battlefield. Most primitive sites sit at elevations between 400-800 feet, with oak-hickory forests dominating the landscape. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F, while spring and fall offer milder conditions between 55-75°F. The Tennessee-Alabama border region provides scattered rustic camping options with minimal amenities and varying terrain conditions.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: At Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite, campers can access both the main Walls of Jericho trail and the Bear Den Point Loop Trail directly from camp. One reviewer notes, "This is primitive camping so no bathhouse, but there is a porta-john in the trailhead parking lot."
Water activities: Paddle approximately a quarter mile to reach Goose Island - J. Percy Priest Lake for an island camping experience. The location requires watercraft access, making it ideal for combining camping with kayaking or canoeing activities.
Practice minimalist camping: The primitive nature of dispersed camping near Shiloh demands preparation. One camper described the Walls of Jericho experience as "An exercise in packing" and explained that "Any equipment must be carried in and out which makes for a perfect backpacking experience."
What campers like
Convenient base camps: Many appreciate the strategic location of certain sites. A camper explained the Walls of Jericho trailhead area "makes for a great basecamp for exploring the area" with level ground "large enough to accommodate many tents."
Wildlife encounters: Natural surroundings provide opportunities to observe local fauna. Brandon notes about Goose Island, "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."
Cell service availability: Some rustic camping areas near Shiloh maintain connectivity despite their remote nature. One visitor reported, "We found good cell phone service with Verizon at this site," referring to the Walls of Jericho trailhead area.
What you should know
Limited water access: Prepare to carry water or hike to water sources. According to William, "There is no water near this site," describing the Walls of Jericho trailhead camping area. Another camper adds, "Be aware that you will have to go a little ways down the trail to find water."
Variable site quality: Some camping areas may not meet expectations. One camper at Walls of Jericho Trailhead Camp describes finding "a parking lot with a fence all around it. There were a few fire rings in the parking lot."
Supply considerations: Remote locations require thorough preparation. A camper notes about the Walls of Jericho area: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Consider site limitations: When traveling with children, evaluate space constraints. One camper mentioned about Walls of Jericho, "The site is on the edge of an overlook of the canyon and has multiple fire rings if there are multiple groups there."
Wildlife precautions: Prepare children for possible animal encounters. Brandon warns about Goose Island, "The only down side is the raccoons. They will come up really close at night begging for food. They're harmless though."
Site selection strategy: For families needing easier access, prioritize trailhead locations. One camper suggests, "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."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: True rustic camping near Shiloh is predominantly tent-focused. A reviewer observed about the Walls of Jericho trailhead site: "The only decent spot for hammocks is the little campsite that is right in front of the parking lot."
Parking considerations: Vehicle access varies significantly between sites. Kevin notes finding "a parking lot with a fence all around it" at the Walls of Jericho trailhead, suggesting limited options for larger vehicles.
Overnight alternatives: RVers seeking more amenities may need commercial options. One camper reported about the primitive sites, "The primitive camping area is overgrown, and I have seen a lot of trash in the woods," indicating these areas may not suit RV travelers seeking more developed facilities.
