Primitive camping surrounds Benton, Tennessee at elevations between 700-3,000 feet where the Cherokee National Forest meets the Appalachian foothills. Sites vary from established campgrounds with electric hookups to more secluded forest service locations along the Hiwassee and Ocoee Rivers. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage.
What to do
Kayaking the Hiwassee River: The Class I-II rapids provide relaxed paddling experiences for beginners. Hiwassee River Area offers direct river access. "Our spot overlooked the Hiwassee on campsite 43. The river is smooth until 11am. We went fly fishing right from the campsite. The water gets released at 11am, so the current picks up and water levels will rise quickly," notes one visitor.
Mountain biking on forest trails: Several campgrounds connect to dedicated biking routes. "The park is rich in history but we are not history buffs so we will leave you to get that info from your friend, Google. The trails: Get a trail map!! These are awesome trails and varied trails with lots of elevation," explains a camper at Fort Mountain State Park Campground.
Swimming in mountain lakes: Natural swimming spots with beach areas offer summer refreshment. "We even took a dip at the swimming area just a short drive from the campsite and loved that too! The best part was how quiet it all got after dark and the frogs just lulled us to sleep," shares a Chilhowee visitor.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds feature well-separated areas with natural screening. "Large private sites throughout. Flush toilets and hot showers nearby. 25 miles of hiking and biking trails starting right from our campsite. F loop is very quiet during the week. $12 non electric," reports a Chilhowee camper.
On-site entertainment options: Some locations offer additional recreational amenities. "The campground is HUGE for tent camping. There are hundreds of great tent sites, and the whole place has a great vibe. We stayed in site 13 on the rv sites, and it was nice. All the sites are spacious, most have plenty of shade," describes an Adventures Unlimited Campground visitor.
Waterfront camping: Several locations offer direct access to rivers or lakes. "This campground is so cool, I would definitely come back and stay here! There are waterfront campsites which we really LOVE!! You cant beat waterfront and being able to step outside your tent and see water," shares a Skull Island camper.
What you should know
Bear activity: Multiple campgrounds report bear sightings, requiring proper food storage. "We had bear visitors, something they'll warn you about upon arrival. The bears just added to the appeal of this place though," mentions one Fort Mountain State Park camper.
Limited cell service: Many sites have minimal connectivity. "We had inconsistent cell coverage even with a Winegard booster with AT&T and Verizon. Mornings were best reception and evening were not so good," reports a Fort Mountain visitor.
Seasonal considerations: Water releases and weather patterns affect camping experiences. "We were there in the middle of the week and it wasn't crowded at all. Plenty of FC FS sites even though the signage at the main turnoff to Oswald rd said no RV electric sites," notes a Chilhowee Recreation Area camper.
Tips for camping with families
Choose lake-based camping: Properties with beach areas provide all-day activities. "This place has a lot to offer: hiking, waterfalls, put put, playgrounds, lake views and paddle boats, standard hook up sites, etc. Its high in the mountains and its got great views," shares a Fort Mountain State Park visitor.
Look for modern facilities: Several glamping close to Benton, Tennessee offer family-friendly amenities. "The bathhouse has hot showers and flush toilets but it's rather rustic due to all people using it coming off the river. There is no charge to use the showers. The bathhouse is shared with the daily rafters," notes a Hiwassee River Area camper.
Consider cabin options: For less-experienced camping families, cabins provide comfort with outdoor access. "The campground offers cabins and the cabin was pretty nice. It slept ten people. It had a front porch with rocking chairs and a swing. It also came with a grill and fire ring," explains an Adventures Unlimited visitor.
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions: Mountain access can challenge larger vehicles. "There is definitely a long drive (7 Mile) uphill to the campground, but it is definitely worth the drive. NOTE: the RV sites do not have water hook-ups at each site. There is a water hook up to fill your tank as you enter the campsite area. Fill your tank and you are good to go," advises a Chilhowee camper.
Prepare for limited hookups: Many forest service campgrounds have electric but not full connections. "We stayed on site 15 of the B loop. As someone who uses a camper, here's what you need to know. Coming up the mountain has some steep grades and a few switch backs that you can't see around. There are often oncoming vehicles who are often driving to fast and not considering those of us in large vehicles," warns a Chilhowee Recreation Area visitor.
Plan for dump station access: Some campgrounds have challenging dump station approaches. "From the B loop, you have to traverse about a 120 degree switchback to get to it. My friend who was there pulling a 5th wheel decided not to try it and opted to pay to dump somewhere else. I pull a 25ft travel trailer and had no problem, although it felt sketchy going into it," shares another Chilhowee Recreation Area camper.
