Backcountry hikers seeking creek access will find primitive camping opportunities scattered throughout this National Park Service area. The free, walk-in sites require carrying gear along designated trails to reach camping areas positioned near waterways within the Big South Fork system.
Creek proximity provides natural water sounds and potential fishing spots, though campers must treat all water sources before consumption. The hike-in requirement keeps visitor numbers lower than drive-up campgrounds, and the National Park Service manages these dispersed sites under backcountry regulations. Campers preferring established amenities can explore campgrounds around Helenwood for sites with hookups and facilities.
Description
Although there are no designated backcountry sites, you can help minimize impact by using an existing site rather than creating a new one. No campsite shall be left unattended for more than 24 hours.
Camping is not permitted at a location within 100 feet of the centerline of or visible from any paved road.
No camping is permitted at developed parking areas. Camping is allowed near developed parking areas when the campsite is at least 100 feet from the parking area and is not visible from the parking area. Camping is not allowed within 300 feet of the Leatherwood Ford day use area north of the Leatherwood Ford parking area.
Developed parking areas are those designated by the 2005 General Management Plan and/or as signed: Yahoo Falls, Alum Ford, Yamacraw, Blue Heron Overlooks, Blue Heron and access areas along river, East Rim Overlook, Leatherwood Ford, West Entrance, Charit Creek, Twin Arches, Burnt Mill Bridge, Peters Bridge, Bear Creek Overlook, Brewster Bridge, and Honey Creek Overlook.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsBackcountry Camping is located in Tennessee near Helenwood
Coordinates
36.431298 N
84.647421 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Dispersed
Features
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Backcountry Camping — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 18 min from Knoxville, TN
- 1 hr 57 min from Morristown, TN
- 2 hrs 13 min from Cleveland, TN
- 2 hrs 27 min from Chattanooga, TN
