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Dispersed Camping

Big Creek Primitive Camping Area

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Big Creek Primitive Camping Area is located near the rugged terrain of southeastern Tennessee. The area experiences temperatures ranging from the 30s in winter to the 80s in summer. Nearby, visitors can explore the Ocoee River and the Cherokee National Forest, offering opportunities for hiking and water activities.

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Location

Big Creek Primitive Camping Area is located in Tennessee

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

35.04618895213528 N
84.54449649353688 W

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Connectivity

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    No Coverage
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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
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    AT&T
    No Coverage

Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

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4.0

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1 Review

Reviewed Jun. 1, 2022

Remote Primitive Camping

This is a great off grid camping spot along a creek. There are about 7 spots here with most of them each able to hold multiple vehicles and set ups. We had 3 vehicles (two with rooftop tents and one with a small teardrop trailer) and we still had room for more set ups in the spot we set up in. All the sites have at least 1 fire ring, most had multiple.

This is primitive camping, so there are no facilities (no bathhouse, no power, no dump station, no trash, ect). It's all pack it in, pack it out. We had no service with Verizon. 

This is also bear country, so you need to practice bear safety with your food and trash. We did not see any bears in camp, but did spot one just down the road the morning we were leaving. 

There is hiking in the area and there are areas in the creek deep enough for wading and soaking. 

This is along Forest Service Road 221 which this section of FS 221 shares driving trails such as the Big Frog Loop, the Georgia Traverse, and the Trans America Trail (TAT), so there could be lots of traffic with overlanders, adventure bikers, and off-roaders.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Big Creek Primitive Camping Area by Steve V., June 1, 2022
  • Review photo of Big Creek Primitive Camping Area by Steve V., June 1, 2022
  • Review photo of Big Creek Primitive Camping Area by Steve V., June 1, 2022
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Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Big Creek Primitive Camping Area?

Big Creek Primitive Camping Area is a true off-grid camping experience with minimal amenities. The campground features approximately 7 spacious camping spots along a creek, each able to accommodate multiple vehicles and setups. There are no electrical hookups, running water, or modern bathroom facilities. Campers should come prepared with their own water, portable toilets, and other essentials. The natural creek provides a water source (though treatment is recommended before use), and each site has sufficient room for multiple tents, vehicles with rooftop tents, or even small trailers like teardrops.

How close is Big Creek Primitive Camping Area to the Ocoee River?

Big Creek Primitive Camping Area is located relatively close to the Ocoee River, making it a convenient base camp for river activities. The distance is short enough that visitors can easily access the river for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and fishing while using the campground as their overnight accommodation. For the most current and specific driving directions between the campground and various access points along the Ocoee River, it's recommended to check with local outfitters or the Cherokee National Forest visitor center.

What is the difference between Big Creek Primitive Camping Area and Camp Cherokee in Reliance?

Big Creek Primitive Camping Area offers a more rustic, undeveloped camping experience with no modern amenities or facilities. It features approximately 7 spacious sites that can accommodate multiple vehicles and setups along a creek. Camp Cherokee in Reliance, by contrast, typically provides more developed facilities that may include restrooms, designated camping areas, and organized activities. Big Creek caters to self-sufficient campers seeking a more immersive nature experience, while Camp Cherokee generally offers a more structured camping environment with additional amenities. Contact the Cherokee National Forest office for specific current details about each location's offerings and restrictions.