Weaver Bend Boondocking in Del Rio, TN
Guide to Off-Grid Camping Options
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ADDRESS |
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Del Rio, TN GPS: 35.941446, -82.929593 Elevation: 1237′ |
MANAGEMENT |
Public – Forest Service (Official) This is a FREE campsite. |
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Previous Reviews:
Weaver Bend Boondocking: Weaver Bend is open year round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 14 days at Weaver Bend. Camping in the middle of Tennessee’s woods is possible at Weaver Bend Road. Winter lows are 30 degrees and summer highs are 85 degrees. The Nolichucky River and Cherokee National Forest are both close by, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
About This Location
If you’re after a quiet spot to boondock, Weaver Bend boondocking in Del Rio, TN, might be exactly what you want. It’s simple, free, and tucked into forested land. Weaver Bend boondocking gives us dispersed camping with no fees or permits, so it’s a practical pick for anyone hoping to camp off the grid. You’re close to the Great Smoky Mountains, which means you can soak up nature without the crowds or a bunch of rules.
Getting to Weaver Bend boondocking isn’t complicated—most vehicles, even RVs and trailers, can make it down the roads to the sites. The weather changes a lot with the seasons, from cold winters to pretty mild summers, so it’s smart to pack for whatever might hit. You’ll get peaceful nights and plenty of chances to wander through the nearby forests and rivers.
Because this is dispersed camping, you won’t find water or electricity here. Bring everything you need. It’s a solid way to unplug, whether you’re new to camping or just want a budget-friendly place surrounded by nature.
Key Takeaways
- Weaver Bend boondocking has free, dispersed camping—no permits required.
- Most vehicles, including RVs, can get in without much trouble.
- No services on site, so come prepared for a self-sufficient stay.
Weaver Bend Boondocking In Del Rio, TN
Weaver Bend boondocking draws plenty of boondockers near Del Rio, TN. It sits right in the Cherokee National Forest, surrounded by trees and rolling hills. That gives us a quiet, remote camping vibe.
You can reach the area by car, but some roads get a bit rough. Winters dip down to about 30°F, while summers can reach 85°F, so it’s best to pack clothes for both ends of the spectrum.
Camping here doesn’t cost anything, and there aren’t any marked sites or facilities. We need to bring all our own stuff—water, food, waste bags—and do our best to leave the place as we found it.
The area’s kept wild and undeveloped on purpose. Other campers often share tips and updates online, which can help us find decent spots and steer clear of damaged ones.
Flooding has messed up some areas, especially spots close to the water. It’s worth checking the latest conditions before heading out. I usually look at recent photos and reviews from other campers to get a feel for what’s going on.
Key Points | Details |
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Location | Cherokee National Forest, TN |
Temperature Range | 30°F (winter) to 85°F (summer) |
Cost | Free dispersed camping |
Facilities | None |
Important Notes | Flood damage possible, bring supplies |
Community | Online reviews and photos |
Things To Do
At Weaver Bend boondocking, there’s no shortage of outdoor stuff to keep us busy. The spot sits inside Cherokee National Forest, so we’ve got access to plenty of hiking trails. They range from easy strolls to tougher climbs, so there’s something for everyone.
Fishing’s an option too, with a few quiet places near the water where you can toss a line and just relax. Wildlife often wanders close by, so keep your eyes open—sometimes you get lucky and spot something cool.
If you’re into history, you might want to check out the ghost towns in the area. Wandering those old, abandoned places gives you a strange sense of time passing.
For artsy types, this place is a real treat. Bring a sketchbook or some paints, and you’ll probably end up inspired by the scenery. The laid-back pace makes it easy to focus on whatever creative thing you’re into.
And honestly, sometimes the best part is just sitting around a campfire or staring up at the stars. With so little light pollution, the night sky really pops.
Activity | What to Expect |
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Hiking | Trails with varied difficulty |
Fishing | Quiet spots near water |
Wildlife Viewing | Chance to see animals up close |
Ghost Town Visits | Explore old, abandoned settlements |
Arts and Crafts | Nature-inspired creative time |
Directions
To get to Weaver Bend Boondocking in Del Rio, TN, start out on Tennessee Scenic Highway 107. The camping area sits right off this road, so it’s not too hard to find.
Coming from Highway 70? Just drive about five miles up into the mountains. You’ll spot signs along the way pointing you toward the dispersed camping area. Most of the roads here are packed dirt and gravel, so take it slow.
Weaver Bend boondocking is near mile markers 21-22, close to the boat ramp just outside Hot Springs. That’s a good landmark if you’re not sure you’re in the right spot.
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Take Tennessee Scenic Highway 107
- Watch for signs for the dispersed camping area
- From Highway 70, it’s a 5-mile drive on gravel
- Look for mile markers 21-22 near the boat ramp
That should get you there without much hassle.
Vehicle Access
Weaver Bend Road is gravel and leads you straight to the dispersed camping areas. It’s a tight, well-kept road, but there’s not much room to pull over or turn around. If you meet someone coming the other way, it can get a little tense.
Make sure your vehicle can handle gravel. Four-wheel drive isn’t a must, but it’s helpful, especially after rain. Take it slow so you don’t mess up your tires or suspension.
Parking’s a bit limited, and the spots aren’t always level. Be ready to park in uneven or even soft spots. If you’ve got a big RV or a long trailer, you might struggle with the narrow road and tight turns.
The entry roads and bridges are in pretty good shape, but some campsites took a hit from past floods. Check for updates before you head out, just in case.
Tips for Vehicle Access:
- Bring a high-clearance or sturdy vehicle if you can
- Expect narrow roads and pretty much no pull-off spots
- Go slow, especially on the gravel
- Large trailers or long RVs are going to have a tough time
Knowing all this makes planning the trip a lot easier.
RV And Camping Trailer Information
Weaver Bend boondocking in Del Rio, TN, is all about boondocking—no full hookups here. If you’ve got a big RV or a trailer that needs constant water, power, or sewer, this probably isn’t the best fit.
Camping’s free, but the road in is narrow and really not meant for big rigs. Smaller RVs or trailers do much better here. There aren’t any mobile home parks or RV parks with clubhouses or amenities nearby.
Since there aren’t hookups, you’ll need to be ready for self-contained camping. Bring plenty of water, batteries, and whatever else you need to stay comfortable.
Most campsites can fit a couple of vehicles, but cell service is spotty, so don’t count on it. If you’re a snowbird thinking about winter, keep in mind it gets pretty chilly—down to 30°F sometimes.
Here’s what to expect:
- No full hookups (water, power, sewer)
- Free dispersed camping
- Narrow access road, not great for large RVs
- Limited cell service
- No clubhouse or organized facilities
Weaver Bend boondocking works best for folks who want a straightforward, quiet camping trip with their smaller RV or trailer.
Paid Or Permit Sites
When you camp at Weaver Bend Boondocking in Del Rio, TN, you might need a permit for some areas. Always check local regulations before setting up camp—rules can change, and nobody wants a surprise visit from a ranger.
Most dispersed camping spots here don’t charge fees. Still, certain sections might require permits to help manage the land and keep things looking good.
If you do need a permit, it’s usually pretty cheap. Those small fees go toward maintenance and keeping the place clean. Honestly, it’s smart to grab any required permits ahead of time so you don’t risk a fine or awkward conversation.
You won’t find formal paid campgrounds right at Weaver Bend boondocking. Nearby, though, some government-managed lands might charge for developed sites or extra amenities.
You can usually pick up permits from local forest service offices or online. It’s on us to have a valid permit if we’re camping in those marked areas.
Quick checklist for paid or permit sites at Weaver Bend boondocking:
- See if you need a permit before camping
- Permits rarely cost much
- Get permits online or at ranger stations
- No full-service campgrounds right at Weaver Bend boondocking
- Stick to the rules so camping areas stay open
Just a bit of planning goes a long way—nobody wants hassle over permits or fees when all you want is a peaceful night under the stars.
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AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
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Near Water | RV Parking Tent Camping Fishing Hiking Wildlife Viewing |
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