Map showing campground location near Pioneer, Tennessee

Camper submitted image from North Cumberland WMA- Royal Blue Unit

North Cumberland WMA- Royal Blue Unit

Rough roads lead to this Wildlife Management Area campground where elk roam the ridges and ATV riders frequent the trails. North Cumberland WMA- Royal Blue Unit sits on state land several miles off I-75, providing drive-in access to wooded campsites right off the main road. Campers report finding multiple established spots with existing fire rings, though four-wheel drive helps navigate the rougher sections.

The area stays quiet outside of hunting seasons, with full cell service available on the ridgetops. Summer camping is open, but access closes during hunting periods when quota elk hunts take place. Royal Blue RV Park offers a more developed alternative nearby for those wanting hookups and amenities.

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Location

Public Campground

North Cumberland WMA- Royal Blue Unit is located in Tennessee

Coordinates

36.38391011 N
84.25569082 W

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Connectivity

T-Mobile5G
Excellent Coverage
Verified by 2 users
Last on 4/3/26
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 1 user
Last on 1/30/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 2 users
Last on 4/3/26

Connectivity

T-Mobile5G
Excellent Coverage
Verified by 2 users
Last on 4/3/26
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 1 user
Last on 1/30/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 2 users
Last on 4/3/26

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Hike-In
Backcountry sites.

Site Types

Tent Sites
Group

Features

For Campers

Firewood Available
Phone Service
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

32 min from Knoxville, TN
1 hr 11 min from Morristown, TN
1 hr 36 min from Cleveland, TN
1 hr 53 min from Kingsport, TN

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2 Reviews

Nate H.

Legend

Reviewed Sep. 30, 2020

Royal Blue

North Cumberland/Royal Blue is located a few miles off I-75, and is a good spot for outdoor recreation. This place is a bid draw for ATV’s, and from what I understand they ride up there year round. The area is a WMA, so it’s a good spot for hunting, just make sure to check local regulations, I know they have elk in this area, and quota hunts and such. You can find some great camping spots here, outside of hunting season anyway. The area is large, so you can definitely find a great spot to camp. We chose a spot that someone had used previously and made a fire pit. We were on top of a ridge, and had good cell reception. It was quiet and peaceful. I did take note of several other really good spots too. If you want to escape civilization and enjoy camping for free, this is a good spot.

Month of VisitJune

(13) View All

Lori H.

Legend

Reviewed Jun. 23, 2020

Quiet Forest, but watch out for ATV’s!

I always enjoy camping on WMA land. The North Cumberland, Royal Blue Unit is a huge area. The part we camped in was very quiet, woodsy, and tons of decent campsites right off the road. We were in our rooftop tent, so we we’re looking to drive in and had several options. There were several fields you could rent camp in though. The road was pretty rough in some places so I would recommend having 4wd just to be safe. Royal Blue is known locally as a great spot for ATV/UTV riding. I think for the most part, the best areas of the WMA are right off the exit (141). The area is full of Elk too, so keep an eye out! The entrance to the area we were in is a few miles off the exit, just past the Pioneer post office. We did not see nor hear another person or vehicle until on our way out in the late morning, we passed 4 UTV’s coming in. The area was very clean, and I always appreciate seeing natural areas being trash free! We had full cell service at our spot, we were on top of a ridge, there was another road that was going down, I’m not sure you would have service down there. I have camped at lots of WMA’s, this one was convenient, clean, and quiet, so I would return. Just remember, hunting is allowed in this area, so you can’t be there unless hunting during season. But summer is open!

(20) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Royal Blue Wildlife Management Area located and how do I access camping areas?

North Cumberland WMA- Royal Blue Unit is located a few miles off Interstate 75 in Tennessee. The wildlife management area encompasses a huge territory with numerous camping options. Multiple camping areas are accessible directly off the main roads throughout the property. Many campsites are easily accessible by vehicle, making it convenient for those with cars or small RVs. For the best camping experience, look for the numerous dispersed sites located in wooded areas and fields throughout the property.

What outdoor activities can I enjoy at Royal Blue Wildlife Management Area?

Royal Blue WMA offers a diverse range of outdoor recreational activities. The area is particularly popular for ATV riding, with trails that are accessible year-round. Hunting is another major activity, with various game available according to seasonal regulations. Visitors can also enjoy hiking through the expansive wooded terrain, wildlife viewing, photography, and primitive camping. The quiet, natural setting provides excellent opportunities for nature appreciation and outdoor exploration.

Are there any special regulations or permits needed for camping in North Cumberland WMA?

Camping at North Cumberland WMA-Royal Blue Unit requires awareness of applicable regulations. As a Wildlife Management Area, hunting regulations apply during designated seasons, so campers should wear appropriate high-visibility clothing during these times. A Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency license or permit may be required depending on your activities. For ATV users, specific permits might be necessary to access the trail systems. Always check with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency for current regulations before your trip, as requirements can change seasonally.

What camping facilities are available at Royal Blue WMA?

Royal Blue WMA offers primitive camping with minimal facilities. The area features numerous dispersed campsites, many of which are located right off the main roads through the property. There are several fields and wooded areas suitable for setting up tents, rooftop tents, or small RVs. Don't expect developed amenities like electricity, running water, or restroom facilities - this is truly a wilderness camping experience. The sites are typically quiet and provide a genuine immersion in nature, making them ideal for self-sufficient campers who bring everything they need.

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