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Best Dispersed Camping near Rutledge, TN

11 Reviews

Dispersed camping opportunities near Rutledge, Tennessee include several primitive sites on public lands, mainly in nearby National Forest areas. Paint Creek Corridor provides tent camping access on a drive-in basis in Tennessee, while Jellico Creek Road Dispersed #1 in Kentucky offers free camping for both tent and RV users. FS 289 Pull Off in North Carolina provides another option with drive-in access for tents and RVs. Several sites permit campfires, though regulations vary by location and season.

Road conditions typically require preparation, particularly for sites like FS 289 Pull Off. While some reviews indicate a Prius can access certain areas during dry conditions, many sites recommend high-clearance vehicles. Most dispersed sites lack amenities such as drinking water, electric hookups, toilets, or trash service. Visitors must pack out all waste and bring necessary supplies. Sites typically follow the standard 14-day camping limit common on Forest Service lands, though specific rules may vary by location.

The dispersed sites around Rutledge provide varied camping experiences with natural features. At Jellico Creek Road Dispersed #1, "There are three dispersed camp sites along this road. We stayed at the first and largest of the three. This first site has room for two groups. It also has a small swimming hole with a rope swing." FS 289 Pull Off offers proximity to water, with one reviewer noting "The creek is only a few feet away from the campsite." Several reviews mention concerns about trash at various sites, suggesting visitors should practice leave-no-trace principles. Bug repellent is recommended, especially near water sources. The Paint Creek Corridor has limited sites despite information suggesting multiple camping opportunities, with a reviewer stating they "were only able to locate one" site in the area.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Rutledge, Tennessee (5)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Rutledge, TN

7 Photos of 5 Rutledge Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Rutledge, TN

11 Reviews of 5 Rutledge Campgrounds

  • Jim M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 20, 2024

    FS 289 Pull Off

    Great dispersed site in the Pisgah NF

    Great Campsite along the Smoky Mountain 1000 Overland route. You need a good off road capable vehicle to access this site but it is very peaceful with a nice stream running by. Tent camping near the jeep or a high clearance overland teardrop should make it back here ok but not recommended for regular RV's.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 4, 2024

    Paint Creek Corridor

    Paint Creek Dispersed Camping

    The national forest service website says there are dispersed camping site throughout the corridor; however, I was only able to locate one and luckily it was vacant. There are several spots along the road that may have been for dispersed camping as some point but are now clearly marked with no camping signs. I did enjoy my stay here but I’m a little disappointed in the website saying there were multiple sites … i has to drive almost 4 hours to get there and would have been super disappointed if I arrived to no spots. Also a lot of trash in the area of the site sadly.

  • Amin A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2023

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    Better than I expected

    So we weren't sure what we would end up finding here. I will say that there are a lot of places to camp, many many many options away from the porta potties. If you get within about 20-30 feet of those they are a bit stinky. The one camp site we chose was a great place, tons of space and well manicured. A lot of options for pull up to your campsite or park and walk to campsite spots.

    My only complaints are about the campers that stay there. The litter isn't horrible, but it's not great. It is a leave no trace place. Apparently some people have difficulty with throwing away their trash.

    When we stayed last night there was a person that kept peeling out up and down the gravel road (3/4 times) in a diesel truck at 10:00 at night. Not very courteous to all of us at the campground.

    And I was awakened at 2:00 a.m. by our camping neighbors when they were playing loud music. Also not cool, thankfully they stopped shortly after

    Overall we were very pleased with this campground, beautiful views, it was hard choosing one spot. We will be coming back, and hopefully we won't have loud campers next time.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 3, 2024

    FS 289 Pull Off

    Good location

    Another review recommended an off-road vehicle or a jeep to get here. In dry conditions, I got here just fine in an Outback Wilderness, and 5 minutes later a Prius drove up. There’s a bit of trash but I’ve seen worse. Definitely bring bug repellent. The creek is only a few feet away from the campsite.

  • Karli P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 23, 2023

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    So Much Potential!

    We arrived at this dispersed campground at around 7:30 on a Saturday evening in July. It was pretty packed but since we were planning on leaving early the next morning, we took a family’s offer of taking over their spot as they left.

    We use a roof top tent so unfortunately we weren’t able to camp at the actual site, instead we set up on an almost level gravel parking area that had a private trail to the actual camp site. There were garbage cans and a port-a-potty set up right there, which is why this site lost some stars. Even though these facilities were provided, people didn’t use the garbages and there was a lot of garbage on the ground, including broken glass that made us worry about our pup’s paws. Also, the port-a-potty was pretty yucky..neither my husband nor I were willing to use it.

    Now, I want to reiterate that this is a geographically beautiful spot! Humans just need to take better care of it 💚

  • Tripp A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    Closed to Public

    I drove over an hour to get here to find that it is “closed to public for vandalism”. I was very upset by this but obviously nothing I could do. Just wish I knew how to check before driving all the way. But the drive! Woah! So beautiful, I wish there was a way I could find out when it opens back up because I was very much looking forward to camping here.

  • Pam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2024

    Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1

    Jellico Creek 1

    There are three dispersed camp sites along this road.  We stayed at the first and largest of the three.  This first site has room for two groups.  It also has a small swimming hole with a rope swing.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2024

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    CLOSED.

    I rode all the way over here from Greeneville to check out the area in order to bring a group of friends camping next weekend.

    BUT the entire campground is closed. When I pulled up to the iron gate and saw the sign, it read "CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC DUE TO VANDALISM AND UNAUTHORIZED ACTIVITY"

Guide to Rutledge

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Rutledge, Tennessee, where nature lovers can find serene spots to unwind and connect with the outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you're sure to find the perfect place to set up camp.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Rutledge, Tennessee

  • When visiting Paint Creek Corridor, be prepared for limited camping sites; it's wise to check availability before making the trip.
  • Bring your own firewood and trash bags, as many areas, including FS 289 Pull Off, do not provide these amenities, and you'll want to leave no trace.
  • Consider using a high-clearance vehicle to access some of the more remote spots, like FS 289 Pull Off, which can be tricky to reach without the right wheels.

Enjoying nature while free camping near Rutledge

  • The Jellico Creek Rd Dispersed #1 area features a small swimming hole with a rope swing, making it a fun spot for families looking to cool off.
  • For those who enjoy hiking, the trails around Paint Creek Corridor offer beautiful views and a chance to explore the local flora and fauna.
  • Don't forget to pack bug repellent when camping at FS 289 Pull Off, as the proximity to water can attract insects.

Dispersed campers should check out Paint Creek Corridor

  • Fires are allowed at Paint Creek Corridor, so you can enjoy cozy evenings under the stars, but always follow local fire regulations.
  • This area is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
  • While there may be some trash in the vicinity, taking the time to clean up can enhance your experience and help preserve the beauty of Paint Creek Corridor for future visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Rutledge, TN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Rutledge, TN is FS 289 Pull Off with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Rutledge, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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