Cherokee National Forest encompasses Dennis Cove Campground, a US Forest Service facility that operates as both a drive-in and walk-in destination in the Tennessee mountains. The campground sits in a forested setting near Dennis Creek, with sites accessible via a narrow, winding mountain road that challenges wider RVs and trailers.
This small facility caters primarily to tent campers, though water hookups are available at select sites. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table, with water fill stations positioned throughout the campground. Nathan F. notes that "water fill up spots are well positioned and each site has a fire ring." The single restroom facility stays clean according to multiple visitors, though no shower facilities exist on-site.
The Appalachian Trail runs close to the campground, making it a convenient base for section hikers and day hikers accessing nearby waterfalls. Dennis Creek provides fishing opportunities and the sound of running water throughout the camping area. Rangers patrol regularly, and the mountain elevation keeps temperatures cooler during summer months. Traffic remains light on the access road, though some sites sit closer to the roadway than others.
For those seeking additional options in the region, campers can explore places to camp around Cherokee National Forest. The $10-20 nightly fee and reservation system make this a budget-friendly choice for campers comfortable with basic amenities and mountain road access.
Description
Overview
Dennis Cove Campground is a secluded campground along Laurel Fork Creek at an elevation of 2,650 feet in Carter County. This remote developed campground is popular with those seeking a rustic experience. The altitude, creek side location and lush forest surroundings make Dennis Cove particularly desirable during hot summer months. With 15 campsites, Dennis Cove is a great option for family camping.
Recreation
Along with camping, Laurel Fork Creek is stocked with rainbow trout below the campground. Above the campground, the creek and its tributaries are managed as wild trout streams for brown, rainbow and brook trout. Laurel Fork Trail (#39) follows the creek upstream for 8.0 miles with twenty-six stream crossings. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is accessed one mile west of the campground along Dennis Cove Rd, or at the top of the nearby Coon Den Falls Trail (#37).
Facilities
There are 15 single campsites, including two double sites within Dennis Cove Campground. The campground has flush toilets. Each site contains a table, fire ring and lantern holder.
Natural Features
Dennis Cove Campground is located along the beautiful Laurel Fork Creek nestled in the mountains of the Southern Appalachians.
Nearby Attractions
The trailhead for Coon Den Falls Trail (#37) is next to Dennis Cove Campground, and the trailhead for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (#1) is approximately one mile west of the campground on Dennis Cove Rd. Watauga Lake is approximately 25 minutes away.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsDennis Cove Campground is located in Tennessee near Hampton
Directions
Take US 321/TN 67 East out of Hampton, TN. Turn right onto Dennis Cove Road and drive approximately 5 miles. Dennis Cove Road is steep with hairpin turns, so plan to drive slowly.
Address
4400 Unicoi Drive
Unicoi, TN 37692
Coordinates
36.2572222 N
82.1108333 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
