Franklin State Forest Boondocking in Saint Andrews, TN
Guide to Off-Grid Camping
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Lake Road Saint Andrews, TN GPS: 35.116819, -85.873468 Elevation: 1804′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – State Forest (Official) 931-598-0830 This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
Franklin State Forest Boondocking: The road in is Gravel and 1 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. Located in Franklin State Forest, this is a little known spot for even long-time locals. A few campsites located around a little pond, there’s a pit toilet, a few fire pits, and two picnic tables. Great free campsite, you’ll have nothing but the light of the stars and the sound of bullfrogs in the pond if you’re there during the week, but be warned if you hit it on a weekend.
About This Location
Franklin State Forest boondocking spot in Saint Andrews, TN gives you a chance to boondock with almost no facilities, right in the middle of peaceful woods. Boondocking here means you can skip crowded campgrounds and camp for free in lots of spots along the forest roads. It’s honestly a solid pick for anyone craving a quieter, more rugged adventure.
The forest sprawls across a big chunk of the Cumberland Plateau, so there’s plenty of room to wander and find a spot that feels just right. RVs and trailers can usually get in, but you’ll want to pay attention to the road conditions and size restrictions—some routes get rough. Hiking trails wind through the area, too, so you’re not just stuck at camp.
You don’t need permits or to pay fees in most parts of Franklin State Forest boondocking spot, which makes planning a breeze. Just keep in mind, primitive camping here really means primitive. No water, no electricity, nothing fancy—so bring what you need and pack out every bit of trash.
Key Takeaways
- You can camp for free at Franklin State Forest boondocking spot in dispersed sites without a permit in most areas.
- Many forest roads are open to RVs and trailers, but check conditions first.
- Hiking and exploring nature are easy options right from camp.
Franklin State Forest Boondocking in Saint Andrews, TN
Franklin State Forest boondocking spot is a quiet spot for boondocking near Saint Andrews, TN. Primitive lakeside spots are available, but there aren’t any marked campgrounds. If you want to camp backcountry, you’ll need a written permit from the District Forester.
The forest itself stretches over 8,800 acres on the southern Cumberland Plateau. It’s a mix of hardwoods, pines, and wildlife—deer, birds, maybe even a coyote if you’re lucky (or unlucky, depending on your view).
Don’t expect amenities. You won’t find picnic tables or developed sites, so you really have to bring everything. No drinking water, no restrooms. Packing well is non-negotiable.
About 10 to 12 miles of backcountry roads are open for horse riding and hiking. The mountains around here offer some great views and a real sense of solitude. The old gravel CCC road running through the forest just adds to the rustic vibe.
If you’re boondocking here, you’ll rely on your own gear and whatever nature throws your way. It’s important to leave no trace and stick to the forest rules.
Things To Do
Franklin State Forest boondocking spot has a bunch of hiking trails to check out. The Outer Loop is a favorite—18 miles, taking maybe 6 or 7 hours if you’re up for it. It’s got a good mix of moderate climbs and chill stretches with solid forest views.
Wildlife is everywhere—turkeys, deer, raccoons, coyotes. Spotting them while hiking or just hanging around camp is half the fun.
If hunting’s your thing, regulated hunting is allowed during the right seasons. Just make sure you’ve got the proper permits and follow state rules.
Horseback riders get their share of the trails, too. It’s a nice way to see the woods if you’re not in the mood to walk the whole time.
Camping here is possible, but a bit limited. No official campgrounds, and backcountry camping does require a written permit. Planning ahead is a must if you want to stay overnight.
Here’s a quick look at what you can do:
| Activity | Notes |
|---|---|
| Hiking | Outer Loop trail, moderate |
| Wildlife spotting | Deer, turkeys, raccoons, coyotes |
| Hunting | Seasonal, requires permits |
| Horseback riding | Trails open for horses |
| Camping | Permit required for backcountry |
Directions
To get to Franklin State Forest boondocking spot for boondocking near Saint Andrews, TN, start by heading toward Sewanee. The main entrance is off 310 Fire Tower Road in Sewanee, TN 37375.
From Saint Andrews, take local roads south until you hit Fire Tower Road. Follow it—watch for rough patches—and you’ll end up at the forest parking and trailheads.
Once you’re at the entrance, keep an eye out for signs pointing to the hiking and non-motorized trailheads. There’s parking near the main access points. A map or GPS helps; it’s easy to miss a turn out there.
Quick route rundown:
- Start in Saint Andrews, TN
- Head toward Sewanee on local roads
- Turn onto 310 Fire Tower Road
- Park near trailhead access
If you want to check out the forest before setting up camp, the Outer Loop trail is clearly marked. It’ll take you to some nice overlooks, especially around mile 6.6.
Road closures and conditions can change with the seasons, so it’s smart to check ahead. Nobody likes a surprise detour.
Vehicle Access
At Franklin State Forest boondocking spot, vehicle access is pretty limited to protect the place. Only drive vehicles that meet Tennessee state laws.
There are three designated parking areas you’re allowed to use. These are your main gateways for hiking or biking into the forest.
Don’t drive on random roads or trails—stick to the approved paths. It helps keep the land in good shape and the experience better for everyone.
Ignoring these rules could mean fines or getting kicked out. All vehicles have to follow posted restrictions.
If you’re camping or boondocking, park in the approved areas. After that, it’s up to you to hike or haul your gear to your campsite.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Vehicle Access Points | Allowed Use | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Three Parking Areas | Parking and access | No off-road driving |
| Forest Trails | Hiking, biking only | No motorized vehicles allowed |
Following these rules keeps Franklin State Forest boondocking spot welcoming for everyone.
RV And Camping Trailer Information
Franklin State Forest boondocking spot doesn’t have a set camping area, so if you’re bringing an RV or trailer, planning is everything. You can camp primitively near the lake, but there are no hookups or official RV sites.
You’ll be boondocking for real—no electricity, no water, no sewage. Bring all your supplies, including water and whatever power source you prefer (batteries, generator, solar, whatever works for you).
Backcountry roads are mostly for horses and can get pretty narrow or rough. Double-check your vehicle’s clearance and size before you try to get in. Parking is limited, and it’s all first-come, first-served.
A written permit is required for backcountry camping. You can get one from the District Forester. It’s a way to keep camping managed and the forest protected.
Here’s a quick checklist for RV and trailer folks:
- Bring water and power supplies
- Check vehicle clearance and size
- Get a backcountry camping permit
- Use first-come, first-served camping spots
- Expect primitive, no-hookup camping
Be ready for a bare-bones experience. Respect the place and follow the rules—Franklin State Forest boondocking spot is worth keeping wild.
Paid Or Permit Sites
Franklin State Forest boondocking spot doesn’t have any paid camping areas set aside, so you can’t just show up and pitch your tent wherever you like. To camp here, you actually need a written permit from the District Forester.
They only allow backcountry camping if you’ve got that permit. You have to call or email the forest office before heading out—honestly, it makes sense since they’re trying to protect the land and keep everyone safe.
If you want more comforts, there are some paid sites just outside the forest. Places near Saint Andrews, for example, offer electric and water hookups. Expect to pay somewhere between $30 and $50 a night at those spots.
So if hookups matter to you, those paid sites are your best bet. Otherwise, you’ll need to go through the permit process for primitive camping inside Franklin State Forest boondocking spot. The permit keeps everyone on the same page with the forest’s rules and limits.
It’s smart to plan ahead and get your permit early. That way, you won’t run into any snags and can just focus on enjoying your camping experience.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Fire Ring Near Water Pets Welcome Picnic Tables Trash Cans |
Tent Camping Fishing Hiking Wildlife Viewing |
Helpful Boondocking Information Links:
Over 10,000 Free Boondocking Locations
Boondocking Recipes for 1000’s Of Camping Meals
Bureau of Land Management
Government Recreation Area
National Park Service
Leave No Trace
State Specific Information Links
Tennessee Park Service
Tennessee Fish and Game