Best camping in Panther Creek State Park, TN 2025

75% (4 reviews)

Top camping in Panther Creek State Park

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Panther Creek Campground

75%

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50 sites · RVs, Tents · In Panther Creek State Park

Spending time outdoors doesn’t always have to mean disconnecting from the digital world

75% (4 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Panther Creek State Park adventure.

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Community favorites near Panther Creek State Park

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Stories from the community

3 nights at Appalachian Pond Campground

Nice camp site. Very quiet and peaceful. It is a bit rugged so know that going into it and you’ll enjoy the space.

7 nights at Appalachian Pond Campground

We loved the view if the pond from the front door of our pop up. The hosts were so nice, helpful and brought wood to our camp anytime we asked. The porta potty was clean and dumped weekly, showers were hot and we appreciated the dish cleaning area. We enjoyed meeting other campers but everyone had plenty of privacy at their camps. It was tricky getting our pop up level at rv site 1. The rocks were a bit big to park and walk on. Would have preferred smaller gravel. Other than that, we loved it, would love to return and recommend it to other travelers.

Weekend Trip to Appalachian Pond Campground

We loved our time at campsite 10! Great communication & directions were perfect. I was able to reach the campsite with my car, which doesn't have great ground clearance. We had our two golden retrievers with us and it was the perfect spot. The stream was just a trickle and that was fine. There's a porta-potty nearby and a water spigot right there. They combined sites 10 and 11, so there was plenty of room to stretch the pups, throw the ball, and have a good time.

2 nights at Appalachian Pond Campground

The trailer was very clean and cute! the fridge was cold and the linens were clean and comfortable, atmosphere was super cute, they stock lots of supplies for you for cooking, overall great stay.

1 night at Appalachian Pond Campground

Easy communication with camp host. 😎 My husband fished the pond (when a kid wasn’t having time of his life cannon balling) and caught a 2 pound Bass. Site 5 is 4 wheel drive to get up to the area and its smaller but more private than other sites. Nice spot overall✨

6 nights at Critter Camp

Great place to camp! Felt very safe as a solo traveler and Kimber is so nice. The location is perfect if you are visiting SMNP. Would enjoy a day of hiking and would come back to enjoy some time with the animals. If you visit (which you should) make sure you follow the host’s directions, not a mapping app. Will definitely stay here again if I am down in Tennessee!

Weekend Trip to Appalachian Pond Campground

Very accommodating, had a wonderful weekend. Nice quiet place.

1 night at Quiet Troublesome Gap

Great little area for a tent I brought. I’d go again.

1 night at Appalachian Pond Campground

they were amazing. My daughter wandered off in the middle of the Night They brought her back to me and I can’t thank you enough. Truly they saved my daughter‘s life!

Weekend Trip to LAKESIDE GETAWAY ON DOUGLAS

First and foremost the host is fantastic. Quick communication, met us when we got there, gave us a prime spot, immediately received our firewood. We liked that it was a family friendly atmosphere with no alcohol and no foul language. You can bring your kids and let them be kids and not have to worry about anything and everything. It was clean and well kept. We stayed at spot 5 which is roughly 75 feet to the lake and dock. Beautiful views, beautiful people and all around great experience. We will be returning with more family in tow soon. This time was myself, wife and mini weenie dog.

Weekend Trip to Out On The Creek Campground & RV

The place was beautiful!! They even had bowls out for our four legged friends. Loved it here and will definitely be back!

3 nights at Critter Camp

Kim was a great host, and It was even better waking up to the horses and donkey at our tent!

3 nights at Out On The Creek Campground & RV

Always the best! So clean and peaceful. Saw lots of cool minnows. We'll be back before summer ends. Thanks y'all!!

Weekend Trip to Harmony hollow

We loved the outdoor shower and how beautiful the area was. The hosts left books to read and games . Our daughter loved the hammock. Hopefully next time we will get to see the horses ❤️ will definitely be back. Hopefully earlier enough to be able to meet the hosts .

Weekend Trip to Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

Site 9 is a great secluded spot on the property over looking the farm and mountains. It was fun walking down to the river to swim, fish, or wade in. Love staying at Smokey Mountain Mangalista Farm!

Weekend Trip to Appalachian Pond Campground

The site was perfect for any and all types of camping and big enough for our group. We had everything we needed and there was tons of space!

3 nights at Honeysuckle Springs Smoky Mountains

We had a great time staying at this site! The bathrooms were clean and the wifi worked great. I would definitely recommend staying at this site if you are camping in the area.

Weekend Trip to Quiet Troublesome Gap

This was my maiden Hipcamp experience but I’ve been camping all over western NC for the last 25 years. Montie’s campsite is very cool. It provided everything my family needed to accommodate us for a festival that was taking place nearby. The instructions were clear and the land was well maintained and tucked away. The plot of land is quite big - lots of space for a family trip or for group get away. Overall, we had a blast!

Weekend Trip to Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

The stream felt like a white noise machine and the grounds were kept impeccably! Would return to this spot in the future.

Weekend Trip to Mountain Top Cabins

We loved every aspect of our time - the privacy and quiet of the little cabin, the views from the front porch of the big cabin, breakfast and hanging out with Doug (the caretaker), laying on a picnic blanket up on the big bald, and just hanging out amongst all the birds and their singing. We'll be back!

Top-rated campgrounds near Panther Creek State Park

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Low Meadow Farms

19 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Knoxville, TN

Low Meadow Farms (formerly Brown Bike Farms) is a serene four-acre meadow bordered by Burnett Creek. The campground is an easy distance to Downtown Knoxville and an even easier access to all that South Knox's Urban Wilderness has to offer. It uniquely offers a hint of backcountry camping without the 25-mile hike in. It is a great way to test the waters for primitive camping or an easy stop close to the city for a seasoned traveler. It is best suited for car camping, RVs, tent, and hammock camping. There are fire pits and picnic tables at each site with enough room for tents and RVs. Most sites have trees suitable for hammock camping all along the creek. There is potable water, firewood for sale, solar showers, and a bike wash stand all next to the covered communal area. Each standard site can accommodate 2 people to keep space between groups and lessen the impact on the land. Sites 10 and 13 can each accommodate 6 guests. If you have more in your group, we recommend reserving an adjoining campsite. Sites 1, 2 and 3 are off the main path to the left of the property, and still by the creek. Sites 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 are all along the creek and gravel drive Site 10 is very private with creek access on three sides. Site 11 is private with creek access all along the front. Site 12 is up high on a hill, and Site 13 is open in the middle of the meadow.

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Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents95 acres · Waynesville, NC

Voted 2nd in NC!! We are a Mangalitsa farm in The Smoky Mountains of western NC. The entire property is oriented toward private farmland views, a half mile of river and surrounding mountains. It's really quite remarkable to be so accessible yet feel so remote! Come swim, fish, cook and play! Check out www.smokymtnriverranch.com for more information. PLEASE NOTE, our rate is based on the number of vehicles in your group. The first vehicle is included in the nightly rate and admits 4 campers. WE CHARGE FOR ADDITIONAL CARS. The charge will be added to your booking once you select the number of vehicles at checkout. Please note that each additional car admits four campers. For EXAMPLE, 2 cars = 8 campers total. If you only have two cars but more than eight people, YOU MUST select the "Extra Person" Extra for each night they are camping. Please select these extras at checkout. If you have questions about this PLEASE message me prior to booking. Our 95-acre farm was once owned by the Davis family who predominantly raised dairy cattle. We now raise the wooly Mangalitsa pig and sell to the best chefs and restaurants. We sell our pork at the farm too! All of our campsites are next to running water except the two hilltop sites. Two porta-potties are on the farm and private porta-potties are available for rent. Groups of eight or more are required to rent a porta potty should you not bring your own toilet system with you. We do not allow the use of our small wooded areas as toilets. Please review the Extras options as we offer river lifts, firewood and dog stays; thank you! Quiet hours are from 10pm to 9am. Checking in before 5 pm is requested. Later times may be available with prior arrangements. Our farm is very dark and navigating at night is difficult. Contact Catherine directly so you can be checked in safely and accommodate your schedule. LIMITED CHECK-INS AFTER DARK. We are 1 mile off of I 40, 17 minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway, 15 min. to Maggie Valley, 10 min to the Elk at Cataloochee, 25 min to Cataloochee ski area, 10 min to Lake Junaluska and 15 min to downtown Waynesville. Asheville is 20 miles to our East.

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LAKESIDE GETAWAY ON DOUGLAS

50 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Dandridge, TN

Lakeside Getaway is a seasonal peninsula on Douglas Lake of primitive camping sites in historic Dandridge, Tn just 30 min from Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area. Come enjoy your boat, jet ski, or kayaks from our 75 foot boat dock and new concrete boat ramp for launching. Our pavilion is a nice commons area with a charcoal stove and can be reserved for private parties. We rent out Kayaks to parties or individuals. Our quite cove is about 2 miles long and very secluded... Great for Kayaking! Call for more details and questions: 423-231-9399 or 423-231-4094

Booked 1 time

Intrepid Acres

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents32 acres · Clyde, NC

Welcome to our magical farm and forest retreat — a glamping getaway where nature and agriculture live side by side. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains between Asheville and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, our site offers the perfect balance of wild beauty and working-farm charm. We’re just 7 miles from the Max Patch trailhead — one of the most iconic and scenic bald hikes along the Appalachian Trail — and only 2 miles from Ferguson’s Supply, a beloved local general store and café for biscuits, burgers, or forgotten essentials. Wake up to birdsong and mountain air, but don’t be surprised if you also hear the baa of a sheep or catch a whiff of compost or fresh hay. This is a real farm, after all — complete with horses, mini cows, mini sheep, chickens, turkeys, peafowl, emus, livestock guardian dogs, and a cat. We grow, forage, and graze much of what we live on, and we love sharing that experience with guests who appreciate the rhythms of the land. Whether you're here to hike, relax, stargaze, or get your hands a little dirty, we invite you to slow down and enjoy the honest magic of this place.

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Honeysuckle Springs Smoky Mountains

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Cosby, TN

Welcome to our beautiful campground nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains! This enchanting getaway offers breathtaking mountain views that will leave you in awe. Whether you're a nature lover, an avid stargazer, or a hiking enthusiast, this spot has it all. One of the standout features of our campground is its unbeatable panoramic view of the majestic Smoky Mountains. Imagine waking up to the sight of rolling peaks and vibrant colors painted across the sky as the sun rises. The evenings are equally mesmerizing, with a clear night sky perfect for stargazing. Be prepared to witness a dazzling display of stars that will leave you feeling connected to the universe. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundant wildlife surrounding the campsite. Keep your camera ready, as you may spot deer gracefully grazing in the nearby fields or catch a glimpse of a majestic eagle soaring through the skies. It's an opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. For adventure seekers, there are numerous hiking trails nearby, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains up close. Whether you're looking for a challenging trek or a leisurely stroll, you'll find the perfect trail to suit your preferences. We understand the importance of comfort during your experience, which is why we provide a well-maintained bathhouse with hot running water. Freshen up after a day of outdoor activities and relax in the clean and inviting facilities. Convenience is key, and our campground is ideally located near two entrances to the Smoky Mountain National Park. This means you'll have easy access to all the park has to offer, from its picturesque trails to its awe-inspiring waterfalls. Adding to the charm of our campground is its historical significance as an old farm. You'll have the opportunity to explore the charming barns and learn about the area's rich agricultural heritage. It's a glimpse into the past that adds a unique touch to your camping experience. We understand the importance of staying connected, even while surrounded by nature. That's why we provide Wi-Fi access, allowing you to share your adventures with friends and family or simply stay connected to the world if needed. While our campground provides a serene and secluded environment, we are just a short 30-minute drive away from the vibrant towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. You'll have the best of both worlds – a peaceful retreat in nature and the option to indulge in the attractions, restaurants, and entertainment that these bustling towns have to offer. Come and experience the beauty, tranquility, and adventure of the Smoky Mountains at our camoground. It's a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for nature's wonders. Please arrive by 9:00 p.m. and observe quiet hours after 10:00 p.m. and before 7:00 a.m.

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Appalachian Pond Campground

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Waynesville, NC

Get back to nature at this incredible private campground nestled in the Great Smokey Mountains of Western North Carolina! This tranquil campground offers a peaceful place to unwind while listening to the wonderful sights and sounds of nature at its best! There are 11 unique and cozy campsites to choose from as well as a shower and portable potties. This campground has a pond for fishing and swimming, a creek running along the campsites and is surrounded by the most magnificent and beautiful foliage and wildlife! Prepare to have the most peaceful sleep under the glorious celestial stars of Western North Carolina! *We also have a sink for dishes alongside the shower house as well as a drinkable well water spicket in the back of the campground! *We are also located close to stores for your convenience as well as many nearby attractions! * Please contact us regarding pets before booking… *We recommend checking in before 10 pm…. The property gets really dark and hard to navigate at night without being shown where to go! If for any reason you will be getting here later please inform us upon booking so we can plan for your arrival! *During the months from November to April we cannot guarantee our shower will be operational due to freezing temperatures. However, during warm periods during those months we do have our shower available. If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of life and return to the simplicity of nature this is your spot! We hope to see you soon!!

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Mountain Paradise

7 sites · RVs, Tents27 acres · Marshall, NC

Enjoy a campsite to yourself on top of a mountain with beautiful mountain and sunset views. Situated near the charming and historic town of Marshall, nearby Hot Springs, Mars Hill and Asheville, you'll have access to a variety of delightful experiences. Despite being close to these attractions, our location is tucked away at the end of a dead-end, low-traffic road. With easy access off the paved road. You’ll have the camp area to yourself although there are some other homes in the neighborhood around our land. Tag us and follow our Instagram @mountainparadisecampground Outdoor enthusiasts will be thrilled with the proximity to the Pisgah National Forest, the Appalachian Trail, and numerous other beautiful hiking trails, recreational activities, and tourism opportunities.

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Harmony hollow

6 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Sevierville, TN

Learn more about this land: Hi and thanks so much for checking out the Harmony Farm . Things available you can enjoy here onsite are a small (seasonal) splash pool , a small take one leave one library , fresh organic vegetables (free) when in season , fresh eggs when available , trails with scenic views , abundant wildlife and natural springs , an outdoor macrame swing , two person hammock , forageable firewood , morels , a hot outdoor showers and EXTRA LARGE sites, . We are conveniently located minutes from Pigeon Forge TN. Home of and only 5 miles from Dollywood and 13 minutes from a super Walmart Incase you forget something . Only a short 30 minute drive gets you to the Great Smoky Mountains national park. I will be happy to share the scenic route . Greenbrier Tn. one of the first settlements here in the National park is only a scenic 30 minute scenic drive from the farm which will takes you through the arts and crafts community while avoiding the hectic hustle and bustle of town . While visiting Greenbrier you can find a picnic area near the river and an outdoor pavilion with a large grill for your special events located there . Several trail heads are located there in the Greenbrier community including Brushy Mountain trail Old settlers trail (several old settlements can easily be found here) Porters Gap trail. There are too many local attractions to list within 15 to 25 minute drive , from horseback riding . tubing, rafting , smoky mountain gravity park to shopping outlet malls . READ !! Be sure to check mypigeonforge.com , pigeonforge.com or gatlinburg.com to find all the local special events calenders as there is at times ALOT of heavy traffic you may not be prepared for . You're welcome . Discounted rides at local riding stables upon request depending on availability . We are accepting tents, hammocks, trucks, with campers, camper vans and pop up campers welcomed also .Small tear drop types ok . We do have sites set up for you or you may prefer to pack your gear out to create your own site in a more secluded areas of the farm . There are many private areas along the creek side for your primitive camp on our 80 acre horse farm. Hike to the back of the farm to watch a sunset over the horse field or down by the stream . Lots of wildlife and scenery at the farm . You will find the laundromat and food venues just minutes away. you can still feel off grid with just a short stroll by the stream that babbles along throughout the 80 acres you will be able to make your playground while visiting the Harmony Farm. Come stay with us as we grow our hip community. Thanks so much for your support.

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Ellis Cove

5 sites · RVs4 acres · Pittman Center, TN

With Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville only a 20 minute drive from this property, you'll have convenient access to many of the area's top attractions; Including, Dollywood, Anakeesta, Ripley's Aquarium, Ober Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Come relax and kick back by the peaceful soothing river, or chat while roasting marshmallows around our oversized campfire and grill. If relaxing isn’t your style, bring your tube to float or pack your fishing pole to take advantage of the regularly stocked Little Pigeon River. The privacy and seclusion of this relaxing riverfront Community of Tiny Homes and 6 RV sites -full hook up- which allows our guests to reconnect with nature while vacationing in luxury

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Critter Camp

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Sevierville, TN

I wanted to let everyone know , we lost our serval, Foose in February, he was 22 years old, he will be missed ... I loved him his whole life. We still have horses and the LYNX and a few smaller rescues , including 4 dogs. We are in the Heart of it all. Looking for quiet nights and super starry skies? This is the place. We have 2 rescued horses and a donkey. A lynx, sugergliders and trained rats from a movie. 4 dogs , 3 house cats. We are located exactly in the middle between Pigeon Forge(with shows and go karts) andTownsend.. with the quiet side of the smokies... tubing, horseback riding, hiking, Cades Cove offers biking and car tours. We are one mile from the foothills parkway entrance and less than 2 miles to a Great Smoky mountains entrance. Our sites offer toilets, potable water and trash disposal. We are pet friendly, and you are permitted to have campfires (outside of any burn ban). We offer animal encounters.

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Standing Bear Farm / Hostel

15 sites · Lodging, Tents2 acres · Hartford, TN

In the heart of the Smoky Mountains surrounded by Cherokee National Forest lies Standing Bear Farm, a turn of the century multi-generational farmstead including the original homestead, barns, outbuildings and farmhouse. The outbuildings have now been converted to a bunkhouse and cabin where we offer rustic lodging to hikers and others interested in stepping back from today's hectic lifestyle to a time in America's past when life in rural back-country Appalachia was considered the "good life". We are accessible by road via I40. There is a small exit due to construction (BE CAREFUL, as we have had Hipcampers miss the exit) Keep left, go underneath the interstate and up the gravel road (going around the road closed signs) to our hostel which is the first building you come to. We are first-come, first-served in Northbound thru hiking season (March 15 through May 15), however, reservations are available at all other times of the year by contacting us via phone 4234870014 (Call) or 4236080149 (Call or Text). Hike or drive-in. Business hours: 8am-8pm. Open year round and on holidays. Call ahead if arriving early in the morning or late at night. We offer shuttles to various beautiful hikes, waterfalls, and more—on and off the trail. Please call or text us for prices and scheduling or you may email to get a price quote. Price varies based on party size, distance, and road conditions and closures. Give us a call to inquire about our kenneling and shuttle service for your furry friends that are not allowed in the GSMNP. We have trail-foods and ready-to-make foods available on site for all your hiking needs. We also have a camp fuel for sale as well as toiletries and other trail essentials. Restock on essential food items to get you on to Hot Springs (northbound) or through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (southbound). We also have items to cook on hand such as pizzas, burgers, and much more! Book today for a taste of authentic, rustic Appalachian charm. Our farm is steps away from the wilderness, with all the amenities you need. We look forward to meeting ya!

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Mountain Top Cabins

6 sites · Lodging, Tents500 acres · Hot Springs, NC

We offer guests an off-grid and authentic Appalachian experience at our hike-in cabins and campsites located on 500 private acres atop the Newfound Mountains in Western North Carolina! Our Trailhead is located 45 minutes west of Asheville, NC and our hike-in trail is 2 miles long with 1,250 feet of elevation gain. The hike-in trail utilizes an old forest service road which follows a creek providing verdant landscapes and soothing sounds as you make your way up the mountain to our cabins and campsites. We have two antique Appalachian cabins on-site and two campsites available. Our cabins and campsites are priced per person and can be reserved individually or collectively through an entire property buyout. A hearty and healthy breakfast is served each morning in our Main Lodge and is included and you'll never pay a cleaning fee on this mountain because we believe in Southern hospitality! Our Main Lodge (Cabin #1) has a huge front porch with spectacular views, a nicely appointed off-grid kitchen, full bathroom with hot shower and an upstairs loft that sleeps up to 10. Our on-site host/s stay downstairs in the Main Lodge in private bedrooms so they can keep the home fires burning, tend the garden, cook breakfasts, clean the cabins and ensure all your needs are taken care of during your stay. Guests in our Upper Cabin (Cabin #2) enjoy a wooded and secluded setting in a rustic cabin that sleeps up to 6. The downstairs area features an open floorpan with a queen size bed, off-grid kitchen, dining area and the loft upstairs sleeps up to 4 people. Cabin #2 also features a full bathroom with and a tree-house like view from the front porch! Our cabin adjacent camp space features two spectacular campsites and is located 100’ from our Main Lodge. Camp 1 and Camp 2 both measure 12’x15’ and feature a soft grassy surface surrounded by natural boulder walls. Both campsites sit beside our neighboring property owned by the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy and feature a long-range mountain views. Guests at our campsites are welcomed to breakfast daily and have full access to the restroom facilities in the Main Lodge.

Camping in Panther Creek State Park guide

Overview

About

Located on the shores of the Cherokee Reservoir, Panther Creek State Park’s rolling hills and valleys are laced with more than 30 miles of trail suitable for hikers, trail runners, mountain bikers, and equestrians, with a terrain that varies from rock gardens to rolling hills and from easy to strenuous. Cherokee Lake invites paddlers and boaters, and provides year-round catches of bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, bream, and rockfish that can weigh up to 20 or 30 pounds. Campers can park their RV or pitch a tent at one of the park’s 50 campsites complete with water and electrical hookups.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Booking in advance is recommended and can be easily done online or by phone up to one year in advance.
Same-day booking is not available online, so you have to call or look for first-come, first-served availability.
Double-check your dates before booking—a non-refundable booking fee is charged

When to go

Panther Creek State Park is open year-round. You can beat the heat and humidity of the summer months by taking a dip in the outdoor swimming pool or paddling on the lake, but if you want to enjoy the trails, it’s a good idea to visit in the cooler spring or fall months instead. A fall visit also offers colorful foliage.

Know before you go

You can purchase firewood, ice, and other basic supplies at the seasonal camp store (closed November through mid-April).
Pets are welcome as long as you don’t leave them alone for long periods. Pets are not allowed in park buildings.
Only certified heat-treated firewood is allowed to enter the park as outside firewood.

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4 ratings · 0 reviews