Top Free Dispersed Camping near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, look no further. The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park just for you.


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Cumberland Gap National Historic Park

7 Reviews of 4 Cumberland Gap National Historic Park Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Moon Hill Bridge
    June 7, 2024

    Moon Hill Bridge

    Moon Hill Bridge

    It's a cute cozy spot that is on either side of the road. Every spot has an area for a fire and also your car and tent. The only downside is that sometimes it does get trashy and there are a few people who live here.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping
    May 13, 2024

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping

    Not too shabby for the south

    Lots of lil cozy pull offs on an easy gravel road. Lots of longer term people staying it seemed like (or just really full send camping friends lol). Many fire rings and spots by the lake. Unfortunately the other reviews are right - A decent amount of trash. There are trash cans and porta potties. I’ve seen worse porta potties at festivals but there were a few stinky ones.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping
    August 27, 2023

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping

    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.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping
    July 23, 2023

    Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping

    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 💚

  • Camper-submitted photo from Swain Ridge
    July 6, 2023

    Swain Ridge

    Gravel only

    Not able to camp in open field. 1000$ fine for doing so. Camping at trailhead or on road side is fine.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Swain Ridge
    May 23, 2023

    Swain Ridge

    Quiet Pasture But Ticks

    It was wonderfully secluded, we used the car to “mow” the grass down, and set up fine. But we did have ticks EVERYWHERE and poison ivy along the edges of the pasture. We had a ball we were playing with roll in there. Outside for normal outside life inconvenience; it was a beautiful, quiet pasture. We were even blessed with see several bats fly around at night. There was no light pollution so we had a great time star gazing!



Guide to Cumberland Gap National Historic Park

Camping near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different needs.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the park. Many campers enjoy the scenic views and wildlife. One visitor at Panther Creek State Park Campground said, "There are beautiful trails, frisbee golf, a big park, and pretty streams."
  • Fishing and Boating: Norris Lake is a popular spot for fishing and boating. A camper at Loyston Point Campground mentioned, "You can camp on the water and watch amazing sunsets."
  • Wildlife Watching: Many campgrounds are home to diverse wildlife. A review from Indian Mountain State Park Campground noted, "We loved the views, and are looking forward to trying out the 5 trails this weekend!"

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities. One visitor at Big Ridge State Park Campground said, "The shower house could and should be larger, but it was very clean."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. A reviewer at Corbin - Laurel Lake KOA mentioned, "The staff were so friendly and helpful."
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful landscapes. A guest at Wilderness Road State Park Campground shared, "Gorgeous forested campground with smooth paved roads."

What you should know:

  • Site Size and Spacing: Some campgrounds have tight sites. A camper at Panther Creek State Park Campground noted, "The campground is small, a little tight in the sides and limited on full service sites."
  • Weather Considerations: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. A visitor at Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground warned, "Only 2 of the 6 sites are usable if it has rained within a week of your stay."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A reviewer at TVA Public Land- Fork Bend mentioned, "There is quite a bit of trash but nothing to make our stay any less enjoyable."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities. A camper at Indian Mountain State Park Campground highlighted, "There are 2 playgrounds, a beautiful lake, and we bought firewood and disc golf sets at the campground store."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor equipment. A visitor at Loyston Point Campground suggested, "There are some fun mountain biking and hiking trails."
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids near water. A reviewer at Panther Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "The park is quiet and well patrolled by rangers and sheriff, so very safe."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Lengths: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Big Ridge State Park Campground advised, "Check your lengths and bring your leveling boards."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Some campgrounds offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. A visitor at Corbin - Laurel Lake KOA noted, "It is clean and well run."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Turns: Some campgrounds have narrow roads. A reviewer at Wilderness Road State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are close together, most aren’t level, and some are in clear disrepair."

Camping near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, Virginia, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just enjoying the scenery, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park is Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping with a 3.5-star rating from 4 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park?

    TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.