Walls of Jericho

[grillmastertoo]

Im looking to make a trip to Walls of Jericho...Can someone recommend a decent car camping spot to set up camp?  It doesnt have to be right at the Walls, but within 1 hour would be great.
Thanks

[weathermansam]

http://tn.gov/twra/gis/wmapdf/BearHollow.pdf  great map, see page three for the Walls trail map. 

According to this site, primitive camping is allowed in the parking area of the horse trailhead.  http://www.alapark.com/press/release.cfm?ID=322

[Bear]

I live about 45 minutes south of there.  You can camp in my backyard.

Actually, there is an area for primitive camping near (within 1/4 mile) of the hiking parking lot.  As you pull into the gravel lot, the camping area is to the right.  Follow the trail behind the porta-john, out into the meadow, and then when the trail splits, turn left.  (I think there is a sign.)  The camping area is right next to the cliff.  Watch children closely.

I also have heard, and have seen on the map posted at the trailhead, that there is a primitive camping area down in the canyon.  Whether or not this is true I have no firsthand knowledge.

Hope this helps.

[weathermansam]

Here's that canyon campsite in 2007:


It's not far from the cemetery if I remember right.  If you're going anytime soon, don't expect to see any flow.  The main waterfall was completely dry the time I went.  Seepage from the rock further down fed the lower falls area.  It's been a harsher year drought wise this year then 2007 too. 

A word of caution on the hike next to the bluffs on the way to the Walls.  It was really crowded, and not a lot of room to nudge to let people by.  In hindsight, I'd hike the rocky stream bed were I to do it over again.

[grillmastertoo]

Thanks for the replys---Does anyone know if TN is allowing campfires?  I cant seem to find anything specific on if there is a ban like there is in AL.
Also, several have mentioned some primitive sites, but would those be accessable for someone with a bum leg?  The plan is to set up a base camp(car camping site) then to let those who can(the one with a bum leg will stay at camp) drive or hike(if within reason) to the Walls trailhead and hike and then return to the base camp.
Thanks

[weathermansam]

From the Alabama trailhead downhill to where you hit the stream is nothing but switchbacks and it'll testy your leg strength, that's for sure. 

Only thing I found on TN  http://news.tennesseeanytime.org/node/6121

[camel]

Good weekend at the Walls! Primitive sites are near the cemetary - enough room for 15 tents.
No flow over the falls but the water flow was good.
Yes- the climb back up is tough when you have 43 pounds in your pack.
Probably 80 days hikers Saturday- Nashville Hiking Club- Tenn. Conservatory group- church group with bus.
It is an amazing area.
Camel
 

[weathermansam]

My main complaint about that area is the sheer number of people I've seen on it before. 

[kimism72]

We car camped at the Cathedral Caverns camp sites when we went. About a 30 minute drive away. Then we backpacked in the next day and camped by the cemetery. The trails are crowded but worth climbing over the multitudes if there is in fact water at the Walls and it is doing it's song and dance. When it's dry, it's pretty but not as splendid.

[Joshua Szulecki]

My main complaint about that area is the sheer number of people I've seen on it before. 

You know, I've had literally dozens of people here in TN talk to me about Walls of Jericho, so the word really has gotten out.