Davis Pond Campsite | Established Campground

October 10th, 2021 by brenna.spurgeon

Note that this location is closed for hunting during managed hunt dates, available on the Prentice Cooper SP website. Hunters Check Station Campground remains open but it get very busy.

March 30th, 2021 by csmaglis

I would NOT bring a van or RV to this site. This is tent camping only. If your van has 4x4..maybe.
There is a 6 mile gravel road to this spot, and the last mile is one lane and difficult. Since we drove up in our van later in the day, we didn't really have an option to go back down before gates closed. We did find a nice compact area to park for the night. It was indeed quiet. The deuce back down in our promaster, well that's another story.
Seriously, unless you're absolutely adventurous, keep this a tent camping site. ABSOLUTELY NO CLASS Cs or As or trailers.

December 1st, 2018 by vmossie

Nice and quiet. Pit toilets terrible.
Enjoyed stay.

October 25th, 2017 by william

Park: 5/5
Park staff: -5/5

Beautiful state park with great hiking trails and lots of places to explore both on foot and by ATV or motorcycle.

My first visit was a solo trip. I had such a great experience I decided to go back again, this time with two friends. We drove a few hours from Nashville to go for a weekend camp. We arrived around 7:30pm and began setting up our tents at the Davis Pond campsite. A posted sign said not to setup camp after sunset. We looked for a ranger to inquire when sunset was considered and not finding one, we continued setting up camp anyways. ("Big mistake.") Two park rangers arrived shortly after telling us the park was open, but we were not allowed to enter and pitch our tents after sunset. I explained to the rangers that we tried to find them to ask for clarity. I also told them that we made the long trip from Nashville and were not about to turn around and drive back home. They responded by telling us to "Get lost and do not come back, we don't care if you drove here from Hawaii." They then proceeded to demand our ID's, escort us out, and gave us a $240 ticket.
Being an Eagle Scout I have hiked and camped at many state parks across our country and have never been treated with such hostility when expecting hospitality. I am truly disappointed with the lack of rationalism and professionalism demonstrated by park staff. After being told to “get lost and don’t come back” we have decided we do not wish to return to Prentice Cooper State forest anytime in the foreseeable future.

(9-25-17) Update: I have emailed Jim Lane, the State Forest Supervisor regarding the situation. The response I received was unsatisfactory to say the least. He gave no apology, and said "you should not be surprised that you got that ticket."

So, that being said, great park! I recommend going! Just avoid the rangers if at all possible! Good luck!

May 7th, 2016 by rtarar

Car camping site . 4x4 access . Toilets on site . No running water.