Tent camping sites near Benton, Tennessee primarily cluster within the Cherokee National Forest where elevations range from 700 to 4,000 feet. The forest's mixed hardwood ecosystem supports diverse wildlife including black bears, wild turkeys, and over 20 species of salamanders. Most backcountry sites require navigating unpaved roads that can become rutted after rainfall, with several creek crossings that may be impassable during heavy storms.
What to do
Swimming and wading spots: Several tent camping locations offer access to natural swimming areas. At Lost Creek Campground, the creek provides "spots that you can swim around in" according to Scott E., who also notes that "sites had concrete picnic tables and a pad." For a larger swimming experience, Chilhowee Campground offers a mountain lake with a designated beach area.
Seasonal hunting access: Hunters can use tent sites as base camps during designated seasons. "We apparently went during hunting season. Had to have been a dog sport. Too many dogs running around and barking throughout the night," reports Scott E. about his Lost Creek Campground experience. Check hunting regulations before planning a fall camping trip.
Mountain biking routes: The forest service roads and trails surrounding Big Frog Area provide excellent mountain biking opportunities. As Chris D. notes about the Lost Creek area, "I've ridden a bike through here several times over the years... Many places to explore on bike or hiking. Super remote area, ride were in decent shape, I could see them being bad after a heavy storm."
What campers like
Minimal light pollution: The remoteness of sites like Goforth Creek Campground creates exceptional stargazing conditions. Asher K. describes the Goforth site as "Nice site along the creek that has plenty of space for multiple tents... slightly off of the trail." The lack of artificial lighting throughout most tent camping areas means clear night skies when weather permits.
Natural white noise: Creekside camping spots provide constant background sounds that mask other noises. As Charles H. says about Lost Creek: "This is a great spot in the river. Picnic tables, fire ring, pit toilet and all you hear is the river at night." Similarly, Bob P. describes Creekside Camp as "Very primitive. No picnic tables or pit toilets. Flat campsites next to a very nice creek."
Winter solitude: Off-season camping offers unique privacy. Gregg G. notes about Lost Creek: "During our visit in Mid January there were no other visitors at the campground. The campground offers concrete picnic tables, lantern post, a pit toilet and bear safe trash receptacles." Winter camping requires proper cold-weather gear but rewards with undisturbed forest experiences.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most backcountry tent sites have zero connectivity. According to Gregg G., Lost Creek has "no Verizon cell reception," while Charles H. confirms "No cell service and its first come first served for a spot." Plan communications accordingly and bring paper maps.
Water treatment necessities: Even sites near water sources require filtration. At Hiwassee River Area, Katrin S. reports "Water spigots throughout the campground but not directly at each site," while most primitive sites have no potable water. Pack filtration systems for all backcountry camping.
Bathroom realities: Facilities vary dramatically between sites. Katrin S. describes Hiwassee's bathhouse as having "hot showers and flush toilets but it's rather rustic due to all people using it coming off the river... muddy bathrooms." At Lost Creek, Chris D. notes the "Toilet could be cleaner but at least it's there."
Tips for camping with families
Elevation considerations: Some of the best tent camping near Benton involves significant climbs. At Starr Mountain Area, Gabriela M. advises: "The trail isn't really a trail but it's so worth it... it's only about half a mile to the top... The key is to keep going up. It is rough... Take it easy and take breaks." Choose lower-elevation sites for younger children.
Swimming hole safety: Creek depths fluctuate with dam releases. Katrin S. warns about the Hiwassee: "The river is smooth until 11am... The water gets released at 11am, so the current picks up and water levels will rise quickly." Always check release schedules when camping near managed waterways.
Wildlife precautions: Bear-proofing is essential for family safety. Megan T. reports from Big Frog: "Hung a bear bag and good trees for hammocking." All food items must be properly secured, especially when camping with children who might leave snacks unattended.
Tips from RVers
Access road challenges: Forest service roads limit RV size and type. Tyler J. describes Lost Creek Campground as "Your classic primitive campground. No generators, water, or porta potties." Gregg G. adds specific access details: "traversing a well maintained gravel road for 7 miles you will reach the Lost Cove Campground." Most tent-focused areas accommodate only small pop-ups or truck campers.
