Dispersed camping options near Copperhill, Tennessee extend beyond established campgrounds into the surrounding Cherokee National Forest. The region sits at elevations between 1,400 and 3,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between valleys and ridges. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing at night from November through March, with summer daytime temperatures typically ranging from 75-90°F.
What to do
Trout fishing access: At Persimmon Creek RV Park, campers can fish in a fully stocked trout pond. "Nice private campground with a creek and a fully stocked trout pond. You pay for what you catch but totally worth it," notes Jason A. The campground also features a smaller catch-and-release pond in the central area.
Hiking trails: The Chilhowee Recreation Area offers 25 miles of hiking and biking trails accessible directly from campsites. "Several hikes for all levels. We did the Benton Falls hike and it was lovely! 3 miles RT. Fall color was just peaking," shares Tracy J. The campground sits at 2,500 feet elevation, providing cooler temperatures even in summer.
Kayaking and rafting: Launch directly into the Ocoee River from Thunder Rock Campground. "One of my favorite campgrounds when paddling the Ocoee River. Nice clean bathrooms and campsites right along the water," says Ben B. Whitewater enthusiasts can "put on the river right from their campsite," according to Henry F.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: At Tumbling Creek Campground, campers enjoy primitive sites next to flowing water. "It is nice to listen to the sound of gentle flowing water, to look around and only see one other camper well down the road," says one visitor. The campground is accessible via Forest Service Road 221 or through paved Grassy Creek Road off Highway 68.
Mountain solitude: Lost Creek Campground offers free primitive camping deep in the Cherokee National Forest. "This campground is incredibly clean + quiet—and completely free. It's in the middle of nowhere (7 miles down a gravel forest road), surrounded by forest, with easy creek access," reports Brittany S. Sites include concrete picnic tables and fire rings.
Lake views: Many sites at Morganton Point Campground have direct lake access. "We were on lot 7 which was right on the lake. The view was perfect," says Paul W. The campground features a clean beach area and opportunities for swimming and paddling on Lake Blue Ridge.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to remote sites often requires navigating unpaved forest roads. For Tumbling Creek, "The drive in on the gravel road takes forever but it is very peaceful once you arrive." Persimmon Creek offers easier access as it's "just off a 4 lane highway. Convenient with easy access to your site."
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited or no reception. Chilhowee Campground has "NO AT&T in spite of what this site says. You may get a weak signal on the other side, but it's spotty at best." Lost Creek has no Verizon cell reception at all.
Wildlife awareness: Bears are active throughout the area. Campsites at Fort Mountain State Park have "bear visitors, something they'll warn you about upon arrival. The bears just added to the appeal of this place though," says Shelly C. Most campgrounds provide bear-proof trash receptacles.
Tips for camping with families
Best family facilities: Gee Creek Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "Very friendly staff. Clean facilities and nice playground. Whippoorwill called through the evening which was cool," shares Mickey L. The campground also has a perimeter trail and access to the Hiwassee River.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with water access during summer months. Chilhowee Recreation Area features "a swimming beach also exists on the park's 22 acre picturesque lake," and rental boats are available during summer.
Educational opportunities: Several sites in the area have historical significance. "If you are a homeschool family we are always excited to find CCC buildings as living history and political science lessons," notes one camper about the Chilhowee area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should research site dimensions carefully. At Thunder Rock, "There are showers on site and very clean bathrooms. Would recommend if your coming down to go rafting. No cell service with ATT." Sites can accommodate different sizes, but backing in can be challenging at some locations.
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited in the area. Parksville Lake RV Campground offers electric hookups, but "Water hookups shared throughout the campground, not dedicated to each site." Persimmon Creek provides water and electric at most sites, with some full hookup sites available.
Leveling requirements: Many campsites in this mountainous region require leveling equipment. At Chilhowee, "The sites on the North side of loop A are fairly uneven and would require a significant amount of leveling blocks if using a camper." Bring plenty of leveling blocks for most campgrounds in the area.
