Scotts Gulf State Park Campground

Open — Open year-round for backcountry camping. Reservations available up to 1 year in advance through Tennessee State Parks reservation system. Check-in time is 4:00 pm, check-out is 12:00 pm. Hiking after dark is prohibited, so plan to reach campsites during daylight hours.

About

Scotts Gulf Wilderness State Park, Tennessee's 60th state park established in May 2025, offers true backcountry camping experiences across 9,500 acres of wilderness terrain. The park features 14 primitive campsites divided into four distinct camping areas, each accessible only by hiking strenuous trails. Martha's Pretty Point campsites sit 2.1 miles from the trailhead via the Upland Trail and feature metal fire rings with grill attachments. Cable Crossing campsites are located 1.5 miles in along Big Laurel Creek. The Caney Fork campsites provide riverside tent camping 4.5 miles from either the Virgin Falls or Rylander Cascades trailheads. Virgin Falls campsites sit 4.3 miles from the Virgin Falls Trailhead, requiring a full day's hike to reach. All campsites are primitive with no water or electrical service. Water can be collected from the Caney Fork River or Big Laurel Creek but must be treated before consumption, and water sources may dry up during summer and drought conditions. Most sites accommodate up to 4 adults and 2 children. The park requires hikers to reach their campsites during daylight hours, as trail hiking after sunset is prohibited. Camping above Virgin Falls waterfall is not permitted. The park emphasizes Leave No Trace principles and wilderness stewardship.

Directions

Parking and trailhead access at 2080 Scotts Gulf Road, Sparta, TN 38583. All campsites require hiking in from this trailhead with distances ranging from 1.5 to 4.5 miles on strenuous trails.

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