Finding boondocking spots in the South just got easier

Early TVA land boondockers

For folks who look for recreation in the South, there's a three-letter abbreviation that of necessity, spells out much: TVA for Tennessee Valley Authority. A wing of the federal government, the TVA has brought power, irrigation water, and recreation lands (and waters) to most of Tennessee and chunks of Alabama, Mississippi, Kentucky, Georgia, North Carolina, and Virginia.

While there are plenty of well-known and oft-visited TVA campgrounds that RVers frequent, there are plenty of smaller, "primitive" spots where boondockers can 'put up for a spell.' But how do you find these gems that are stashed away? The TVA has opened up a new interactive web site that helps RVers and other recreationists zero in on TVA lands that meet their needs. In addition, the site also provides a new mobile app for smart phones and other wireless devices.

"We often get questions from the public about what TVA land is available for activities such as hunting," said Bruce Schofield, TVA vice president for Property and Natural Resources. "Our new online map lets people quickly find areas where hunting, primitive camping or other outdoor opportunities are located."

The web page, www.tva.com/landsmap, includes locations and regulations for use of TVA lands that have very limited man-made facilities, according to a press release from TVA. Many of these areas are located along the Tennessee River and its major tributaries.

TVA owns and manages approximately 293,000 acres of land Valley-wide. Of this total, about 229,000 acres are available for dispersed recreation that away from developed sites with modern facilities. Popular dispersed recreation activities include hunting, camping, hiking, birdwatching, and mountain biking.