Primitive camping sites dot the Cherokee National Forest surrounding Farner, Tennessee, at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 feet. The area experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during day and cooling to mid-60s at night. Most backcountry camping spots remain accessible from April through October, with forest roads often becoming difficult to navigate during winter months.
What to do
Creek swimming and wading: Several camping areas near Farner offer direct creek access for cooling off during hot summer months. At Lost Creek - Cherokee NF, campers can enjoy shallow creek swimming. "There are spots that you can swim around in," notes Scott E., who camped creekside.
Explore forest service roads: The remote backcountry around Farner contains extensive gravel road networks ideal for hiking and mountain biking. Chris D. mentioned about Lost Creek, "Many places to explore on bike or hiking. Super remote area, ride were in decent shape, I could see them being bad after a heavy storm."
Day hikes on Benton McKaye trail: While camping at Starr Mountain Area, hikers can access challenging day hikes with significant elevation gain. "Very intense hike up the mountain but the views are worth it," reports Sean7, who recommends "hammock camping is ideal here, unsure of tent camping possibilities."
River activities: The Hiwassee River Area offers multiple water recreation options. "Multiple Float Rental types including sit in, sit on and inflatable kayaks. Shuttle to top for put in and take out at camp ground on the river," says Jay A., highlighting the convenient rental services available.
What campers like
Natural spring water: Tent campers appreciate access to natural water sources near campsites. The Your Toccoa River Cove campground features "a spring you can drink straight out of, and streams criss-crossing the entire area if you want the rugged feeling of purifying your own water," according to Stephanie J.
Privacy and solitude: Campers consistently mention the quiet atmosphere at primitive sites near Farner. At Lost Creek, Tyler J. describes it as "Your classic primitive campground. No generators, water, or porta potties. How camping in the forest should be!"
Concrete amenities: Despite being primitive, many tent sites include basic infrastructure. Rayley P. notes about Lost Creek, "Each campsite has a concrete table, fire pit, and tent platform. Some have direct access to the creek."
Digital disconnection: The remote nature of tent camping near Farner means limited connectivity. Melissa R. mentions at Toccoa River Cove, "If you have AT&T cell service you're out of luck (or a blessing) because it will not work here... but it does work once you go back out into the road some."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many camping areas require navigating unpaved roads. At Goforth Creek Campground E, Asher K. notes the site is "slightly off of the trail" with access that can be challenging to locate without directions.
Hunting season disruptions: Seasonal hunting affects the camping experience. During certain times, Scott E. observed at Lost Creek, "We apparently went during hunting season. Had to have been a dog sport. Too many dogs running around and barking throughout the night."
Weekend crowds: While generally quiet on weekdays, some sites become busy during peak times. A recent visitor to Lost Creek noted, "Nice but super crowded on the weekend."
Water availability varies: Most primitive camping near Farner lacks running water. Gregg G. reports about Lost Creek, "There is no potable water available from a spicket and no Verizon cell reception."
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration: Children enjoy shallow water play at several Farner area campgrounds. The Unique shelter in the NC foothills offers nearby amenities that families appreciate, including "a community firepit and some amenities you share with the treehouse next door (slackline, swing, and slide)," according to Erin S.
Site selection for tent platforms: Families benefit from established tent areas with level ground. At Lost Creek, Charles H. notes, "This is a great spot in the river. Picnic tables, fire ring, pit toilet and all you hear is the river at night."
Weather preparedness: The area experiences rapid weather changes, particularly in higher elevations. Sean7 advises about Starr Mountain to "Come prepared to hike hard and to experience unexpected weather if it occurs."
Accessibility considerations: Some family-friendly campsites require minimal hiking while others demand more effort. Gabriela M. explains about Starr Mountain, "The trail isn't really a trail but it's so worth it. if you enter through gee creek rd it's only about half a mile to the top."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most dispersed camping areas near Farner have limited space for vehicles. The Smitty's Lodge Motorcycle Campground warns that large RVs won't fit on their property. Bob P. confirms, "I found this awesome campground close to the beginning of the Cherohala skyway in Tellico Plains...I stayed in a tent, but they do have cabins for rent also. Campsites are level and spacious."
Driveway challenges: Many camping areas have steep access roads. At Toccoa River Cove, Stephanie J. cautions, "The driveway down to the shelter is very steep, and does not allow much space to turn around. RVs or larger trucks will not fit."
Alternative lodging options: When RV camping isn't suitable, many sites offer cabins or shelters. At Hiwassee River Area, Katrin S. mentions, "No electric hookup. Water spigots throughout the campground but not directly at each site."
