Best Dispersed Camping in Tennessee

Campers venturing across Tennessee have access to hiking, boating, fishing, biking, rock climbing and picnicking across 56 state parks, enough variety to satisfy any adventurer’s soul. With terrifically high Appalachian peaks and plunging caverns, Tennessee travelers can get a sense of the sublime landscape that inspired music legends from Nashville to Memphis by camping in Tennessee.

East Tennessee is home to a part of the oldest mountain range in the world, the Great Smoky Mountains. As the name suggests, the peaks are often shrouded in fog, but that doesn’t make the view from Clingmans Dome any less spectacular. At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome towers as the highest point in Tennessee and the third highest point east of the Mississippi River. Make sure to say hi to the hardcore hikers, many people hiking the entire Appalachian Trail will stop at this unforgettable lookout.

A clear day at the dome observatory provides views as far as 100 miles. But explorers camping in Tennessee should plan on hiking their way up to the point, the roadway that leads to the observatory closes during inclement weather and from Dec. 1 to March 31 every year.

If you’re camping with the kids and they’re looking for more occupation than your campsite offers, many of the natural attractions in Tennessee are also family friendly. Lookout Mountain is only minutes from Chattanooga and offers several world-famous sites like Rock City and the See Seven States point.

All the mountain peak trails may leave the heights-averse camper less than enthused. But Tennessee has something for everyone. Also at Lookout Mountain, but plummeting beneath ground level, is where you’ll find Ruby Falls, the largest and deepest underground waterfall in the nation.

Scenic views and dramatic natural landscapes are part and parcel for any Tennessee camping adventure, as long as you know where to look. Camping in Tennessee can be done right with The Dyrt to guide you along your trails!

Best Dispersed Sites in Tennessee (34)

    1. Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Signal Mountain, TN
    Website
    +1 (423) 658-5551

    "Prentice Cooper is an amazing place and offers two campgrounds and several backcountry camping spots."

    "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."

    2. Lost Creek - Cherokee NF

    9 Reviews
    Reliance, TN
    Website

    "The lost cove campground can be found deep in the wilderness of the Cherokee National Forest outside of Benton, TN. The campground is operated and maintained by the USFS."

    "We chose a spot next to the creek. Was clear and flowing due to a lot of rain the few days before we arrived. Sites had concrete picnic tables and a pad. We had to clean ours when we arrived."

    3. Jackson Island Dispersed Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)

    9 Reviews
    Spring City, TN
    Website

    "The campground is very easily accessible and has no facilities other than garbage bins."

    "Felt safe overall."

    4. Neville Bay

    5 Reviews
    Bumpus Mills, TN
    Website

    "There is no hook ups . Can run generator until 11pm"

    "Mostly flat near the water and lots of sites to camp. We really enjoyed our spot in the shade on a hot summer weekend."

    5. Citico Creek Area

    6 Reviews
    Tallassee, TN
    Website

    "This campground is great for being right next to great day hikes and easy access to Citico Creek, which was just across the gravel road from our site."

    "My only complaint was there were cars frequently driving by throughout the night on the dirt road. Other than that, really enjoyed this place."

    6. Sourwood Campground

    4 Reviews
    Coker Creek, TN
    Website

    "You could pretty much drive by this place without giving it a second thought. I am glad I didn't. We got there late after 1pm. I was afraid that we were out of luck."

    "Google maps brought me to a spot 30 miles away"

    7. Calderwood Lake Primitive campground

    3 Reviews
    Croatan National Forest, TN

    "You are right in the little slickrock cover with waterfalls as white noise. unlike the other sites this one is also very flat which is best for walking. if you enjoy hiking campsite one is right on the"

    "If you are willing to bring everything with you, pack everything out, and paddle multiple miles on a nonmotorized finger lake, this is this place for you!"

    8. Bi-Color Campground (Catoosa WMA)

    4 Reviews
    Lancing, TN
    Website
    +1 (931) 456-2479

    "There was no accessible water near by so make sure you bring your own provisions. Haven’t got to explore much around the area by hiking. Found a nice creek a few miles on down the road."

    9. Tennessee Wall Camp

    2 Reviews
    Lookout Mountain, TN

    "We really enjoyed our night tent camping here."

    10. Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area

    3 Reviews
    Butler, TN
    Website
    +1 (423) 735-1500

    "Stayed a night out here while traveling, scary narrow rocky trails, but beautiful streams and mountains"

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Showing results 1-10 of 34 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews in Tennessee

63 Reviews of 34 Tennessee Campgrounds



Guide to Tennessee

Tennessee offers a wealth of opportunities for dispersed camping, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the freedom of primitive camping. With stunning landscapes and a variety of amenities, these spots are perfect for those seeking adventure.

Dispersed campers should check out Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed

  • Enjoy the serene environment at Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed, where you can set up camp near a peaceful pond and explore nearby OHV trails.
  • This area allows campfires and pets, making it a great choice for families and friends looking to bond over a campfire meal.
  • Access is available via drive-in or walk-in, providing flexibility for different camping styles.

Tips for free and dispersed camping in Tennessee

Activities for dispersed campers

  • Experience the beauty of nature at Calderwood Lake Primitive campground, where you can canoe to your campsite and enjoy hiking along scenic trails.
  • Fishing and swimming are popular at Goforth Creek Campground A, which is known for its easy access to water and beautiful surroundings.
  • For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, Neville Bay offers a well-maintained primitive camping experience with stunning views and plenty of space for tents.