Where to Find Free Camping in Tennessee

Free camping in Tennessee: a guide to the best spots

Tennessee is a beautiful state with something to offer everyone, from its stunning mountains to its lush forests. And if you’re looking for a free camping experience, you’re in luck! There are plenty of great spots to camp for free in Tennessee, all with their own unique charm.

In this guide, we’ll share some of our favorite free camping spots in Tennessee, along with tips on how to make the most of your trip. So whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to pitch your tent or a campground with amenities, we’ve got you covered.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your free camping trip to Tennessee today!

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Campground	Location	Amenities
Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area	Cumberland County	Camping, hiking, fishing, swimming
Mammoth Cave National Park	Edmonson County	Camping, hiking, cave tours
The Obed Wild and Scenic River	Claiborne County	Camping, hiking, fishing, whitewater rafting
Pickett State Park	Overton County	Camping, hiking, fishing, hunting
Virgin Falls State Park	Van Buren County	Camping, hiking, fishing, swimming

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Tennessee is home to a variety of beautiful camping destinations, from state parks to national forests. Whether you’re looking for a rustic experience in the wilderness or a more comfortable stay with amenities like electricity and running water, you’re sure to find a camping spot that’s perfect for you in Tennessee.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to camping in Tennessee. We’ll cover everything from where to camp to what to bring, and we’ll even give you some tips on how to make your camping trip more enjoyable.

State Parks

Tennessee has 56 state parks, many of which offer camping facilities. The cost of camping varies from park to park, but it typically ranges from $10 to $20 per night. Reservations are required for some parks, so be sure to check the park website before you go.

Here is a list of state parks in Tennessee that offer camping facilities:

• Andrew Jackson State Park
• Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
• Bledsoe Creek State Park
• Cherokee National Forest
• Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
• DeSoto State Park
• Fall Creek Falls State Park
• Fort Loudoun State Historic Park
• Gulf Islands National Seashore
• Harpeth River State Park
• Hiwassee State Park
• Hooker Falls State Natural Area
• Indian Mountain State Park
• James E. Walker State Park
• Johnsonville State Historic Park
• Mammoth Cave National Park
• Norris Dam State Park
• Oak Ridge National Laboratory
• Pickett State Park
• Reelfoot Lake State Park
• Sevierville State Park
• Shiloh National Military Park
• Stones River National Battlefield
• Tishomingo State Park
• Twin Arches State Natural Area
• Virgin Falls State Park
• Warriors Path State Park
• Wheeler Lake State Park
• Wigwam Cave State Park

National Forests

Tennessee is also home to four national forests, which offer a variety of camping opportunities. The cost of camping in a national forest varies from site to site, but it typically ranges from $10 to $20 per night. Reservations are not required for most national forest campgrounds, but it is a good idea to call ahead to check the availability of sites.

Here is a list of national forests in Tennessee that offer camping facilities:

• Cherokee National Forest
• Cumberland National Forest
• Obed Wild and Scenic River
• Smokies National Forest

Camping is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors and explore all that Tennessee has to offer. With so many beautiful camping destinations to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next camping trip.

3. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages over 155 million acres of public land in the United States, including over 2 million acres in Tennessee. BLM land is open to camping for free, but there are some restrictions.

• List of BLM land with camping facilities

The following is a list of BLM land in Tennessee that has camping facilities:

• Cumberland National Forest
• The Cumberland National Forest has over 500,000 acres of land in Tennessee. There are over 100 developed campgrounds in the forest, as well as many dispersed camping opportunities.
• Daniel Boone National Forest
• The Daniel Boone National Forest has over 600,000 acres of land in Tennessee. There are over 50 developed campgrounds in the forest, as well as many dispersed camping opportunities.
• Obed Wild and Scenic River
• The Obed Wild and Scenic River is a 56-mile stretch of river that runs through the Cumberland Mountains in Tennessee. There are several campgrounds along the river, as well as many dispersed camping opportunities.
• Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
• The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is a 125,000-acre park that straddles the Tennessee-Kentucky border. There are over 30 developed campgrounds in the park, as well as many dispersed camping opportunities.

• Cost of camping

Camping on BLM land is free. However, there may be a fee for using developed campgrounds. Fees vary depending on the campground.

• Reservations

Some developed campgrounds on BLM land require reservations. Reservations can be made online or by calling the BLM office.

• Amenities

Developed campgrounds on BLM land typically have amenities such as restrooms, showers, and water. Dispersed camping areas may not have any amenities.

• Restrictions

There are some restrictions on camping on BLM land. For example, you must camp at least 200 feet from a road or trail, and you must not leave any trash behind.

4. Other Options

In addition to BLM land, there are other options for free camping in Tennessee. These include:

• National Wildlife Refuges
• National wildlife refuges are managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. There are over 10 national wildlife refuges in Tennessee. Most of these refuges allow camping for free, but there may be some restrictions.
• Private campgrounds
• Private campgrounds are owned and operated by private individuals or companies. There are over 100 private campgrounds in Tennessee. Most of these campgrounds charge a fee, but some may offer free camping.
• Dispersed camping
• Dispersed camping is allowed on most public lands in Tennessee. This means that you can camp anywhere on public land, as long as you are at least 200 feet from a road or trail.
• Boondocking
• Boondocking is a term that refers to camping in a vehicle in a remote area. Boondocking is legal on most public lands in Tennessee, but there may be some restrictions.

There are many options for free camping in Tennessee. Whether you are looking for a developed campground with amenities or a secluded spot to pitch your tent, you are sure to find a place to camp for free in the Volunteer State.

Where Can I Camp For Free In Tennessee?

• Answer: There are many places to camp for free in Tennessee, including state parks, national forests, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands.
• State parks: Most state parks in Tennessee offer free camping for tent campers. Some parks also have cabins or yurts that can be rented for a fee.
• National forests: The National Forest Service offers free camping in designated areas within national forests. Campsites are typically located in remote areas and may not have access to water or restrooms.
• BLM lands: The Bureau of Land Management manages over 3 million acres of land in Tennessee, much of which is open to dispersed camping. Dispersed camping means camping in undeveloped areas away from developed recreation sites.

What are the best free camping spots in Tennessee?

• Answer: Some of the best free camping spots in Tennessee include:
• Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area: This national park offers a variety of free camping options, including backcountry camping, primitive camping, and developed campgrounds.
• Cherokee National Forest: The Cherokee National Forest has over 100,000 acres of land open to dispersed camping. Campsites are located in remote areas and may not have access to water or restrooms.
• Obed Wild and Scenic River: The Obed Wild and Scenic River offers free camping at several designated campsites along the river. Campsites are typically located in wooded areas and have access to restrooms and water.

What do I need to know before I go free camping in Tennessee?

• Answer: Before you go free camping in Tennessee, it is important to know the following:
• Where you can camp: Free camping is allowed in designated areas within state parks, national forests, and BLM lands. It is important to check the regulations for each area before you camp.
• What you need to bring: When free camping, you will need to bring everything you need with you, including food, water, shelter, and a way to cook. It is also important to pack out all of your trash.
• How to stay safe: When free camping, it is important to take precautions to stay safe. This includes being aware of your surroundings, being careful with fire, and following the Leave No Trace principles.

What are some of the benefits of free camping in Tennessee?

• Answer: Some of the benefits of free camping in Tennessee include:
• It is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the state. Tennessee is home to a variety of beautiful landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rivers. Free camping allows you to explore these landscapes and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
• It is a more affordable way to camp. Free camping is a great option for people who are on a budget. It can save you a lot of money on camping fees.
• It is a more flexible way to camp. Free camping does not require you to make reservations. This means you can camp whenever you want and for as long as you want.

What are some of the challenges of free camping in Tennessee?

• Answer: Some of the challenges of free camping in Tennessee include:
• Campsites may be crowded. Free campsites are often popular, so they can be crowded during peak season.
• Campsites may not have amenities. Free campsites may not have amenities such as water or restrooms.
• Camping may be prohibited in some areas. It is important to check the regulations before you camp to make sure that you are not camping in a prohibited area.

  Tennessee is home to a variety of free camping options, from state parks to national forests. Whether you’re looking for a rustic experience or something more comfortable, you’re sure to find a free camping spot that’s perfect for you. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next free camping trip in Tennessee today!