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The best camping in Cherokee National Forest, TN

96% (50)

The best camping in Cherokee National Forest, TN

Indian Boundary Campground

1. Indian Boundary Campground

100%

(10)

Campground in Cherokee National Forest · 87 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Known to be one of the most popular and beloved areas in the Cherokee National Forest, Indian Boundary Recreation Area has it all

Public campgrounds in Cherokee National Forest are often sold-out.

Parksville Lake RV Campground

2. Parksville Lake RV Campground

100%

(6)

Campground in Cherokee National Forest · 16 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Just a stone’s throw away from the glistening lake waters, Parksville Lake RV Campground is hidden away under a shady haven with plenty of space between campsites

Tumbling Creek Campground

3. Tumbling Creek Campground

100%

(4)

Campground in Cherokee National Forest · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Tumbling Creek Campground sits near the banks of the Tumbling Creek, near Ocoee #3 Lake

Chilhowee Group Campground

4. Chilhowee Group Campground

100%

(3)

Campground in Cherokee National Forest · 1 site

The Chilhowee Group Camp sits near the top of Chilhowee Mountain, at an elevation of 2,000 feet

Cardens Bluff Campground

5. Cardens Bluff Campground

100%

(2)

Campground in Cherokee National Forest · 28 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Get high at Cardens Bluff Campground, which sits at nearly 2,000 feet of elevation and looks over the glassy waters of Watauga Lake

Tri Mountain View

6. Tri Mountain View

96%

(141)

7.7mi from Cherokee National Forest · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Tri Mountain View Campground is located in the Northeast corner of Tennessee in the town of Shady Valley. With an elevation of 2,800 feet, Shady Valley is the second highest town in Tennessee. It is just 26 miles from the Bristol Raceway and the Bristol Caverns. It is just a 15 minute drive to Backbone rock and a short drive to the Appalachian Trail. The property was a Dairy Farm and went out of business in the late 90’s and since then there has been over 3,000 trees planted. Some of these trees include the rare Butternut and Hazelnut, but mostly White Pine, Walnut and Oaks. The property has approximately 1,000 feet of fishing on Beaver dam creek, so we recommend bringing waders. There is also a shower house, washer and dryer.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$18

/ night

Buck Ridge Resort

7. Buck Ridge Resort

100%

(29)

11mi from Cherokee National Forest · 1 site

We offer primitive tent sites and two glamping cabins, one with Queen size bed and the other with two twins and a 50 Amp RV concrete slab. Separate bath house with his/her toilets and showers. Surrounded by nature and hiking trails on the property along with a creek, come stay for a night or for a week. Waterfalls are close by, Lake Watuga, ATV trails, horseback riding trails, and very private, quiet and wild.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$35

/ night

A Frame Cabin in East Tennessee

8. A Frame Cabin in East Tennessee

94%

(17)

11mi from Cherokee National Forest · 1 site

Adorable A-Frame cabin in Butler, TN. Cabin has wifi, tv, twin bunk bed on top and Queen bed underneath. Mini fridge and microwave. Cute front porch and perfect for overnight stays or a mini weekend away. Bath house has his/her toilets and his/her showers down a quick trail. Lots of trails, bring your horses, dirt bikes or ATVs. 30 minutes from Boone, 30 minutes from Beech Mountain, Roan Mountain, 10 minutes to Lake Watauga. Enjoy the mountains of East Tennessee and GET OUTSIDE!!

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$50

/ night

Black Bear Resort

9. Black Bear Resort

94%

(45)

14mi from Cherokee National Forest · 47 sites · Tents, RVs

A secluded place nestled in the Pond Mountain Wilderness area of the Cherokee National Forest. Near streams, creeks, hiking trails, 3+ waterfalls, rivers, and Watauga lake. One tent per site, up to 2 adults and up to 4 children are included. Additional persons / tents will require additional charges.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$15

/ night

The North Star Dome at Compass Rose

10. The North Star Dome at Compass Rose

96%

(14)

15mi from Cherokee National Forest · 1 site

1302 Greer Branch Rd, Laurel Bloomery, TN 37680 ----Amenities---- - Glamping Dome Tent set in a butterfly preserve at the back of our farm, with breathtaking mountain views! - Queen bed, blankets, 2 pillows - HEAT in the dome via indoor-safe propane heater -air conditioning in the warmer months -Gas griddle -Solar power battery (for charging your devices, powering the lights, etc) -Outhouse -Outdoor shower -Basic kitchen & bath supplies Towels (kitchen & bath) Silverware Paper plates and cups Mugs Tea pot and french press Some cooking utensils and pots/pans Lighters feminine hygiene products Bug spray, bear spray -Outdoor Hot shower! ----NOT CURRENTLY PROVIDED---- -Firewood (available at local dollar store 5 minutes away) -Ice -BYOB ----RULES AND THINGS TO BE AWARE OF---- This is a smoke free facility. NO SMOKING indoors or outdoors!!! -This glamping site is unfortunately NOT adequate for handicap accessibility, as it is on a slope with steps and some uneven ground. It is also not suitable for long vehicles, such as towing big trailers, or RVs/campers. Single cars, trucks, vans or SUVs only, at a 2 vehicle maximum, please. -No disruptive behavior, such as loud music, big parties, heavy drinking, or use of substances. This is a quiet, rustic retreat on a family farm designed to reconnect with nature and find peace. -No littering -Do not feed the wildlife OR the farm animals (except if participating in provided petting zoo) -Never let pets off leash. Tie out is provided near the dome. ----Activities---- - On the farm: Nature trails, animal feeding experience, telescope rental, canoe rental (for lake 40 minutes away). Seasonal produce picking. -Nearby: Gentry Creek Falls, Wataugua Lake, Damascus VA and the Creeper Trail, Doe Mountain Recreation, Skydiving, Fishing & hunting, horseback riding, local eateries and coffee shops....the list goes on! You may wish to interact with our farm menagerie during your stay. We have supplied a self-service animal feed dispenser by the "barnyard" sign, just beside our tiny house. Feel free to come down between 9AM-8PM to give chickens, geese, ducks, and possibly the goats some treats. NO PETS ALLOWED TO BE WITH YOU WHEN YOU FEED THE ANIMALS, please! Feed is available by donation. Note: Only feed the provided treats, do not feed anything else! Please do not exceed two refills per person! Be aware that animals can bite, kick, scratch, bonk, and poo. You are your own responsibility when interacting with the animals! ----CHECK-IN INSTRUCTIONS---- -Drive up to our farm gate and TAKE THE GUEST FOLDER from the box, clearly marked. Don't mind the barking of our big white livestock guardian dogs from within the nearby pastures, they are just doing their job. Open the gate and CLOSE IT behind you, please :) -Follow driveway up to the top of the hill. Please do not allow any pets out of your vehicle down at our farmyard. Be careful as you pass through this area as we do have children and livestock possibly crossing the road. -Park wherever you feel your vehicle can best manage the sloped driveway. -Open the dome's zipper door and let it air out. Follow the guest folder's instructions for further climate control needs. There will be most of the information you need in the guest folder, as well as in pamphlets and notes around the site. You can also contact us at any time, but the WIFI is sometimes spotty, so it may be necessary to come knock on our door for additional inquiries. (Don't be shy! While we will not invade your privacy, we always enjoy meeting our guests, and will gladly help any way we can). Thank you for checking us out, and we hope to have the joy of being your hosts soon!

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$99

/ night

McNabb Creek Group Campground

11. McNabb Creek Group Campground

100%

(2)

Campground in Cherokee National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Known as a hub for anglers, adventurers, and camp vibe lovers alike, McNabb Group Camp is the prime place for you and all your closest buddies to crash

Donley Cabin

12. Donley Cabin

100%

(2)

Lodging in Cherokee National Forest · 1 site

If you’re looking for a primitive and secluded cabin in Cherokee National Forest, then this is your place

Old Forge Recreation Area

13. Old Forge Recreation Area

100%

(3)

Campground in Cherokee National Forest · 10 sites

Come enjoy the primitive campground in Old Forge Recreation Area, on the banks of Jennings Creek

Paint Creek Campground

14. Paint Creek Campground

100%

(2)

Campground in Cherokee National Forest · 20 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Paint Creek Campground is tucked away in a mountain cove along the banks of Paint Creek

Backbone Rock Campground

15. Backbone Rock Campground

100%

(2)

Campground in Cherokee National Forest · 1 site

The campground at Backbone Rock Recreation Area sits along the shady banks of Beaverdam Creek, popular for trout fishing

Chilhowee Campground

16. Chilhowee Campground

100%

(2)

Campground in Cherokee National Forest · 78 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

On your drive out to Chilhowee Recreation Area, stop at one of the many scenic overlooks for stunning views of the surrounding mountains

Young Branch Horse Campground

17. Young Branch Horse Campground

100%

(1)

Campground in Cherokee National Forest · 7 sites

Hop on that faithful horse of yours and head out to Young Branch Campground

Round Mountain Campground

18. Round Mountain Campground

100%

(1)

Campground in Cherokee National Forest · 26 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Wander off the beaten path to find the secluded gem known as Round Mountain Campground

Holly Flats Campground

19. Holly Flats Campground

100%

(1)

Campground in Cherokee National Forest · 16 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Holly' moly, what a beautiful sight

North River Campground

20. North River Campground

100%

(1)

Campground in Cherokee National Forest · 11 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Okay, so you have a family now and you're stoked

96% (50)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Cherokee National Forest adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Cherokee National Forest

Tri Mountain View

96%

(141)

7.7mi from Cherokee National Forest · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$18

/ night

Buck Ridge Resort

100%

(29)

11mi from Cherokee National Forest · 1 site

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$35

/ night

A Frame Cabin in East Tennessee

94%

(17)

11mi from Cherokee National Forest · 1 site

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$50

/ night

Black Bear Resort

94%

(45)

14mi from Cherokee National Forest · 47 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$15

/ night

The North Star Dome at Compass Rose

96%

(14)

15mi from Cherokee National Forest · 1 site

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$99

/ night

Loafers Joy Meadow

97%

(257)

16mi from Cherokee National Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

10/9/2024 NOTICE: We had some damage to our road due to Hurricane Helene that made it impassable. It has since been repaired and is opened to traffic. There are still some remaining rough areas, but the road is easily passable by passenger vehicles and RV's up to 28ft. Our site was once part of a much larger farm growing tobacco and raising cattle and other farm animals. The existing tobacco barn was built in the early 1960's. The concrete pad used for RV camping was used to store silage for the cows. The non-potable water source is a mountain spring that has been used on the farm since the 1930's. While many tobacco barns in the area have been torn down for their rusted tin roofing and rustic siding, we have worked to restore the barn and preserve its history.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$20

/ night

Longhope Mountain Glamping

100%

(41)

17mi from Cherokee National Forest · 1 site

Our unique, one of a kind 2 person glamp site is nestled in the heart of untouched wilderness. This serene and extremely private retreat offers a perfect escape for nature lovers seeking tranquility and adventure. Set amidst towering sugar maple trees in a secluded breathtaking woodland landscape, our site combines the comforts of home with the beauty of the great outdoors. There is cell service at the tent! Your cozy accommodations feature a spacious elegantly furnished canvas cabin tent with a large partially covered front deck with outside kitchen and fully covered back porch with composting toilet and hand washing sink. Inside is thoughtfully designed to provide a luxurious and comfortable camping experience, with a plush full sized bed adorned with soft linens and fluffy pillows and of course extra quilts. Inside also features a futon couch, dining area and coffee/ food prep bar. The tent is completely off grid and is equipped with battery powered lights, keeping the ambiance warm and inviting. Step outside in the private deck where you can relax with your favorite beverage. Immerse yourself in nature’s symphony as birds sing and gentle breezes rustle through the leaves. In the evening gather around the crackling smokeless fire pit to roast marshmallows, share stories and marvel at the peace and quiet the forest offers. To enhance your experience, we offer a well equipped outdoor kitchenette for your culinary endeavors. Prepare delicious meals using the propane cook stove or fire up the barbecue. Enjoy your creations at the charming picnic table surrounded by a beautiful woodland paradise. For the adventurous souls, a myriad of activities await you just a short drive away. From tubing, kayaking or fly fishing the new river to hiking elk knob state park or mountain biking at rocky knob in Boone. Whether you’re seeking solitude, romantic bliss or a rejuvenating getaway, our glampsite promises an unforgettable experience in nature. Come and reconnect in the natural world. Create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Site is off grid, bring your fully stocked cooler and leave the rest to us. Water provided Pets welcome (fully enclosed deck to keep fur babies in) Hammock 4wd or awd needed Parking available down below with shuttle service as well. Short 5 minute walk to site from lower parking.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$100

/ night

Rocky Face Camp

100%

(22)

17mi from Cherokee National Forest · 1 site

Nature lover’s paradise, song birds, wildlife, creek side, at the pastoral base of Rocky Face Mountain. Creek stocked for 800 feet of private fishing. Quick access to Ski Slopes and hiking trails. Plenty of room to pitch a tent to add extra guests. This is a functioning farm with horses, pigs and chickens as well as agriculture. Tiny house has WiFi, covered porch, attached bathroom- hot shower and sink, indoor toilet, kitchenette, grill and fire pit. Central to Sugar and Beech Ski Mtns, Valle Crucis and Banner Elk 10 minutes, Boone is 25 minutes away.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$89

/ night

The Barlow RV

100%

(19)

18mi from Cherokee National Forest · 8 sites

The Barlow RV is a boutique RV park located in the Western North Carolina mountains. Located near the quaint town of Banner Elk and the ski towns of Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain, North Carolina. The Barlow is situated at an elevation of 3600 ft. with private walking trails up to 4000 ft. with views overlooking Beech Mountain and Hump Mountain. We are a small but mighty RV park excited to bring you modern hospitality to your outdoor RV experience. Each site was uniquely designed with the lay of the land and unobstructed views of the mountain valley. We offer 8 spacious sites with full hookups and well appointed amenities. Each site offers plenty of privacy, great mountain valley views and areas to spread out and relax. We treat our furry babies like our children and wanted our park to reflect their needs too. We have an off leash dog park for room to roam and 35 acres to explore on leash. Cooking outside and enjoying your home away from home "outside" your RV was a high priority to us. Grilling in the privacy of your patio area or gathering with a fire pit and seating to hang out under the stars. For those looking for some outdoor fun, relax under the trees in our "hammock village" which offers a variety of outdoor lounging. We will be adding more sites and amenities as we grow, such as, an outdoor pickleball court. We want to make sure the needs of our guests and their stay at "The Barlow" is a memorable one.

Pets

Full hookups

from

$110

/ night

Stormbrew Farm

99%

(135)

18mi from Cherokee National Forest · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Nestled in the breathtaking Appalachian Mountains of Southwest Virginia, , hens, ducks, bees, Great Pyrenees, and cats pastorally roam over 18 acres of rolling farmland and forest. Experience our favorite parts of Stormbrew Farm through a primitive camping experience. Learn more about this land: An agrarian dream - a literal field of possibility. With 18 acres to choose from you may find yourself sleeping along the lazy Fifteenmile Creek, atop a hill under Virginia stars, or even set up with pastoral views of hens and Great Pyrenees dogs. The roadfront side of our property offers level terrain for pull-behind trailers, while vehicles (preferably 4WD) and tent campers can travel all the way back to the creek. Feeling froggy? Ford the stream and camp in the large field on the other side. Be sure to mind the animals and fields, as this is a working farm. One mile down the road from the farm is the Virginia Creeper Trail, renowned for biking, but as a multi-use trail, you can also enjoy walking, running, horseback riding, fishing, cross country skiing, and geocaching. South Holston Lake is only minutes away by vehicle, with two public access boating ramps 10 to 20 minutes away. Access to the Appalachian Trail is only 20 minutes away in Damascus. We became caretakers of this lovely property in June of 2021, moving from our existing farm, 45 minutes away. When we got it, it was a blank slate of a hayfield, and we have spent the summer laying infrastructure so that we may grow our cut-flower, honey, and vegetable business.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$29

/ night

Blue Bear Mountain Camp

98%

(200)

19mi from Cherokee National Forest · 46 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Blue Bear Mountain Camp offers year-round camping experiences for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Car-accessible tent and RV sites in a natural setting. Hike-in sites for those looking for a little more adventure and privacy. Stargazer Domes and Cabin rentals for guests wanting a rustic, mountain getaway while staying in comfort. Located just 8 miles north of Boone, NC on over 150 acres of pristine mountain land, miles of hiking trails, a trout pond, and spacious low-density sites allow the guest to get away from it all in a rustic, remote setting. In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. At 4,000 feet elevation, come enjoy cool mountain breezes and mild temperatures. Blue Bear Mountain is a scenic location for large events such as weddings, corporate events, and family reunions. Come Get away from it all at Blue Bear Mountain! Blue Bear Mountain offers spacious, Low-Density RV camping, spacious, private, rustic car-accessible tent camping, and spacious, private remote tent camping. Blue Bear Mountain also offers luxury Stargazer Domes and Cabin rentals to provide you with more choices of how to experience your mountain getaway. In a beautiful mountain setting with incredible views, the Stargazer Domes are a great way to enjoy the camping experience without really roughing it. Great for a romantic getaway or bringing the family. Furnished with a queen size bed, complete with high-quality linens, a bistro table, and chairs, you will stay in complete comfort. Conveniently located near the bathhouse with private bathrooms, a Laundry room, and a dishwashing station. You can drive right up to the handcrafted stargazer dome. Relax and take in the views while sitting around your stone fire ring. A park grill, picnic table, and free bundle of firewood are also provided to complete your glamping getaway.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$30

/ night

Safe Haven Farm

98%

(24)

19mi from Cherokee National Forest · 8 sites · RVs, Lodging

Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape at Safe Haven Farm. Camping on the Roan with one your own RV camper. Enjoy the sounds of nature when you visit this unique forested location. We are Nestled away in the Appalachian Mountains. Our secluded 75 acre farm offers 5 RV campsites which are available for full hookup 50/30/20 Amp available water and sewer. Our location also offers his and her master bathrooms suites with showers.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$60

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Jeannie

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Greener Acres

Brian and Sarah are outstanding hosts. It’s clear that a lot of thought has gone into the idea of sharing their lovely land and location. Great communication. We felt very welcome and at the same time like we had our own space. The bathroom is close and for us, staying in winter, fabulously warm. Having the full bathroom with an otherwise “primitive” campsite is *chef’s kiss.* There’s a hand towel, but as expected, bring your own bath towel. The creek sound is peaceful and soothing for sleeping. Provided firewood and moveable picnic table/benches is a blessing. Nestled in the small clearing surrounded by trees and alongside the creek feels very private. We stayed 2 nights and the middle day was solid rain. The ground was soggy but not muddy. Roan Mountain State Park and Carvers Gap are minutes away. Excellent hiking. Highly recommend hiking the balds from Carvers Gap…you can see the balds from the campsite. Walk where you can have one foot in TN and one in NC and views for miles, Banner Elk is about 30 minutes. Boone an hour. The original Mast General store is between and always fun. We’d recommend Kettell Beerworks in Banner Elk and Booneshine in Boone for craft beer and decent pub food.

Miguel-Angel

3 weeks ago

14 ft travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Loafers Joy Meadow

I loved the views waking up in the morning. Super simple to find

Shay

3 weeks ago

14 ft travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Loafers Joy Meadow

Michael’s site was easy to find and he was super helpful. We are traveling in February with unpredictable weather. Michael communicated with us about road conditions and even sent us some photos of the site a couple days before we arrived as it had recently snowed. The site was absolutely beautiful. Would definitely recommend!

Seth

January 2026

3 nights at Rocky Face Camp

This was a great stay! It’s a nice little cabin with a ton of amenities like a hot shower and WiFi! They also have a Blueray disc player and a tv which was a wonderful surprise! Overall, I would definitely say this place was worth it, considering that it has a cozy feel and it’s right in the middle of some major landmarks like Beech Mountain or the town Blowing Rock and its landmark. (I’d recommend checking out both) Overall. Comfortable stay. Not too small. Perfect for a getaway weekend!

Zach

January 2026

12 ft campervan

4 nights at Blue Bear Mountain Camp

Beautiful views, clean restrooms, and hiking trails on property. Definitely a superior choice for the area!

joseph

January 2026

26 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at Mountain Haven

Great place to stay away from everything. Easy to get to close to everything.

Alexandra

January 2026

2 nights at The North Star Dome at Compass Rose

Love stay, very private, the stars were gorgeous and the animals were adorable! We woke up one morning to ponies hanging out right outside.

Ryan

December 2025

39 ft fifth wheel

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Drifter Ridge

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had a great experience camping at Drifters Ridge. The campsite is peaceful, well-kept, and surrounded by beautiful scenery—perfect for relaxing and unplugging. The site is spacious, clean, and laid out nicely so you don’t feel crowded. It’s a quiet place at night, which made it easy to enjoy a campfire and get a good night’s rest. Keith and his wife were awesome hosts and made us feel right at home. The kids absolutely loved the tour of the farm and getting to pet the cows—it was a highlight of the trip. The location is convenient to nearby attractions while still feeling tucked away in nature. We’d definitely recommend Drifters Ridge to anyone looking for a laid-back, enjoyable camping experience and will be back again ourselves.

Matthew

December 2025

10 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Blue Bear Mountain Camp

Fantastic location with all the right amenities such as hot shower, flushing toilets, fire pit, large open areas for camping. My dog was in heaven! Thank you for a fantastic experience. I'll be back.

Sabrina

December 2025

22 ft Class B

2 nights at Blue Bear Mountain Camp

Great spot. Very level, especially for being on a mountain. Very quiet. Great view of the sunrise in the morning. Showers are hot. Friendly host!

chris

December 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Mountain Haven

Great little spot with a fire pit and picnic table. A little tough to find because of Google Maps ending short, but very easy set up once you’re there. I enjoyed my car camping time night before hitting the slopes the next morning, which was only a few mins down the road.

Chaeli

December 2025

1 night at A Frame Cabin in East Tennessee

Second time staying on this compound. Absolutely love it.

Julie

November 2025

26 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Blue Bear Mountain Camp

Staff was very nice and accommodating. Very peaceful campground.

Bethany

November 2025

33 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Blue Bear Mountain Camp

The host at Blue Bear was the sweetest & most helpful man I ever met at a camping spot. The place was so clean & well kept. We will definitely be back. It's a slice of heaven.

Melisa

November 2025

19 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Blue Bear Mountain Camp

We have started a tradition the Friday after Thanksgiving we always head up to blue Bear Mountain to enjoy some family time together! We love this place it is very peaceful, beautiful and quiet! A great family Atmosphere! If you love seeing the wildlife, you will love how the wild deer just walk around the campground!

Clay

November 2025

Tent

With kids

4 nights at Greener Acres

My boys and I stayed at Greener Acres for three nights and had an awesome experience. The restroom access and Wi-Fi were super convenient, and Brian was a thoughtful host who pointed us toward some great local spots. The location made it easy to get to Roan Mountain State Park, which was perfect for our trip. We’d definitely stay here again.

Kevin

November 2025

35 ft travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Drifter Ridge

Had a great experience, not far away from West Jefferson or Gratsin Highlands State Park (Virginia). Host was personable and very accommodating. Would definitely recommend staying here. Also has a cabin coming soon on the same property as the camper site. The neighborhood cows were respectful of the morning and didn't start talking until they saw people.

Camden

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Loafers Joy Meadow

We loved our stay here. We plan on making this trip a tradition we enjoyed it so much! Great hosts and a wonderful view.

Julie

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Longhope Mountain Glamping

Sarah was so sweet! Such a nice place to get away. Definitely recommend!

Kristin

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Big Foot Holler Camping

Very peaceful campsite. We really enjoyed it. The host was very friendly and accommodating.

The best camping in Cherokee National Forest, TN guide

Overview

About

Follow us to Tennessee and dive into the grandeur of the Cherokee National Forest! It’s filled to the brim with scenic forested trails, rushing rivers, and rainbow trout. During the day you can go rafting, and at night you can bask yourself in moonshine (of various sorts) and brush up on your constellations. If you are in pursuit of some Appalachian Mountain bliss, this is the right place to start. Don’t forget your camera, you're going to want to show these vistas off!

96%

50 ratings · 21 reviews

Recommends

· July 2025

Tumbling Creek Campground

Great spot on the ocoee.

Mary And Dan C.

32 reviews

Recommends

· June 2025

Tumbling Creek Campground

Great campground to stay at while boating the ocoee or biking tunasi! Wonderful spots to jump in and swim as well.

Mary And Dan C.

32 reviews

Recommends

· June 2025

Cherokee National Forest

Beautiful and peaceful. Will definitely return.

Cat H.

3 reviews

Recommends

· May 2025

30 ft Class C ·

Paint Creek Campground

Great place to stay the night.

Steven Keeley S.

1 year on Hipcamp

March 2021

North River Campground

Per ranger still first come first served, fairly primitive. Bring own water.

Lisa F.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· February 2020

Donley Cabin

Off the beaten path for sure. The cabin is about 1/4 mile uphill from the road. Similar to a trail shelter. Plywood bunks, Plenty of Mice, Nice fireplace. Bring your own mattress, lantern (its dark inside) and water, but table, chairs and rockers are supplied. Don't plan on any heat form the fireplace as it mostly goes up the chimney. Bunks are in a second room so no heat at all. Great Adventure.

Randy M.

6 years on Hipcamp

January 2020

Holly Flats Campground

Accessed this by SUV, I wouldn't recommend a car, the forest road is kinda sketchy. it was kinda remote and I had no company. Made a fire and hit the water which was about 50 yards from campsite. Brought a super nice 12-13 inch brown to hand on a caddis. I highly recommend this place if you want to be left alone.

Stephen B.

6 years on Hipcamp

June 2019

Chilhowee Group Campground

My family has RV camped here a couple of times when white water rafting the Ocoee and Nantahala Rivers. You have to drive up into the mountains to reach the campground and there are some beautiful overlooks along the way. There is a small mountain lake with a great beach and swimming area just a short hike from the campground. I would highly recommend this campground.

Leah H.

2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2018

Parksville Lake RV Campground

Loved it both times i was there. Great for night kayaking! Just wish it was a little more private. Campsites are about 30 yards apart.

Ben S.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2018

Chilhowee Campground

Went in January and had the whole place to ourselves. Was wonderful!

Ben S.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· December 2017

North River Campground

You can camp, rent a cabin, or easy stay. Lots of amenities.

Angela H.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2017

Backbone Rock Campground

Super isolated campground. Very few people there during the week. Great sound of the rushing water behind each site. You do hear some highway noise.

J P.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2017

Little Oak Campground

Remote camping if you're the type of person who doesn't want to be around people.

Jenn S.

8 years on Hipcamp

July 2017

Holly Flats Campground

Super quiet, super secluded campground. Pit toilets no running water. Gorgeous creek. Alcohol is allowed, but it is very patrolled by wardens after dark so make sure you're legal.. There's really not much to do here, but if you want a relaxing weekend this is the place. Lots of places to hang a hammock. The name comes from all the holly trees and the ground is covered in them. It drove our dog crazy.

Abby G.

8 years on Hipcamp

June 2017

Sylco Campground

This campground is permanently closed.

Andrew M.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2017

Cardens Bluff Campground

There are three perfect campgrouds right by this cove, and then there is one absolutely perfect spot that is kind of secluded and has its own little peninsula. All in all a solid 9/10

Savannah W.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· March 2017

Indian Boundary Campground

You will have to drive to get to some good trails from this campsite. But going in the early spring is interesting as it is frog mating season! This campsite is a minutes walk from the lake, so you will hear a chorus of frogs in the evening. Make sure that you procure a hiking map before you go adventuring as the roads aren't particularly well labeled and it is easy to get confused when trying to find a trailhead. But once you do, beautiful day hikes await!

Bethany C.

9 years on Hipcamp

December 2016

Thunder Rock Campground

Typically, it's always packed and rangers are always patrolling. Like Gee Creek, don't even think about drinking adult beverages in this campground. There are some dispersed options if you go past the campground up the hill.

Travis C.

9 years on Hipcamp

December 2016

Parksville Lake RV Campground

This is great campground with typically clean amenities. Rangers are occasionally seen walking around checking sites but they mostly always leave people be. There are one or two free spots just past the actual campground on the right if you are coming from the main road. The free spots are road side so you'll be dealing with traffic at times but it's worth it if you're into dispersed camping.

Travis C.

9 years on Hipcamp

May 2016

North River Campground

The description is somewhat misleading. North River campground is not located near a lake. It is located beside a lovely stream which is ideal for kids (and adults)! I was there today and everything is in great shape.

Judy E.

9 years on Hipcamp

August 2015

Little Oak Campground

Such a lovely spot! It is quite the trip from when you first enter Cherokee, but man is it worth it! My camp spot was right on South Holston Lake which allowed us to take a nice hike along the waters edge. We made friends with campers at the next spot over, shared some grub and good times. Though in the "Amenities" section it says there are certain things unavailable, our spot had quite a few of those things such as: a picnic table, fire ring, restroom (no shower) as well as bear proof trash/recycling receptacles. I highly recommend this site. The only thing I would have changed would have been to reserve a site further away from RV spots, the generators are a little much when you're trying to enjoy the peace and quite of nature!