Fourteen dispersed sites stretch along Citico Creek in Cherokee National Forest, most of them positioned directly on the water. The sites are well-spaced, which gives each camp its own sense of separation from neighbors, though a dirt road runs through the area and reviewers note that vehicle traffic continues through the night. Free camping draws a wide range of visitors, and cleanliness has been inconsistent, with some arrivals finding sites in good condition and others needing to do cleanup before settling in.
Creek access is the main draw here. A majority of the 14 sites sit on the water itself, and after heavy rain the creek runs high and fast. Day hiking trailheads are close to the camping area, making this a workable base for those covering ground on foot. The Forest Service provides toilets and picnic tables, campfires are permitted, and pets are welcome. There is no fee for most sites, though a paid option exists further down the road for around $15 per night.
Zane P. notes the sites are "extremely spread out, allowing for private camping," which holds up across multiple reviews. That spacing is one of the more consistent positives. The flip side is that free dispersed camping in this part of Tennessee attracts unpredictable crowds, and Leave No Trace compliance has been a recurring issue. Campers who arrive prepared to do a quick site sweep will likely have a better experience. For those who want a more structured setup nearby, Jake Best Campground sits less than a mile to the southeast.
Description
View of Citico Creek in Cherokee National Forest This area provides opportunities for solitude and backcountry experiences. You will find ample opportunities for fishing, horseback riding, camping, and hiking. With more than 20,000 acres of Wilderness in Citico Creek and Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock, this area provides ample opportunities for solitude and backcountry experiences. Catch both native and stocked trout in Citico Creek and its rugged tributaries, and fish for small-mouth bass and catfish in the creek’s lower reaches. Citico Creek Area Map Citico Creek Area Guide
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCitico Creek Area is located in Tennessee near Tallassee
Coordinates
35.4562611 N
84.11709467 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Toilets
- 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
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Citico Creek Area needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 9 min from Knoxville, TN
- 1 hr 21 min from Cleveland, TN
- 1 hr 46 min from Chattanooga, TN
- 1 hr 50 min from Morristown, TN
