Best Dispersed Camping near Winchester, TN

Looking for the best campgrounds near Winchester, TN? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Tennessee camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Winchester, Tennessee (6)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Winchester, TN

5 Photos of 6 Winchester Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Winchester, TN

25 Reviews of 6 Winchester 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 Winchester

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Winchester, Tennessee, where nature meets adventure. With various options available, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Winchester, Tennessee

  • Make sure to pack out all your trash when visiting places like Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite, as it’s essential to keep these natural areas pristine.
  • Bring plenty of water and supplies, especially since sites like Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp do not offer drinking water or trash services.
  • Familiarize yourself with the area’s regulations, as some spots, such as Tennessee Wall Camp, have specific rules regarding campfires and pets.

Dispersed campers should check out Prentice Cooper State Forest

  • This area features multiple dispersed camping spots that are well-reviewed for their scenic beauty and accessibility, making it a great choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
  • The forest offers a variety of trails for hiking and exploring, ensuring that you have plenty of activities to enjoy during your stay at Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed.
  • Keep in mind that cell service can be spotty, so plan accordingly and consider bringing a map or GPS device for navigation.

Enjoy hiking and exploring while free camping near Winchester

  • The Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite serves as a convenient base for accessing nearby hiking trails, making it ideal for those who want to explore the area without carrying heavy gear.
  • Many campers appreciate the proximity to water sources, although you may need to hike a bit to find them, especially when staying at sites like Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp.
  • Be prepared for a variety of terrain and conditions, as some trails may be rugged, but they lead to stunning views and rewarding experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Winchester, TN is Walls of Jericho - Trailhead Campsite with a 2.7-star rating from 6 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Winchester, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.