Primitive camping areas near Birchwood, Tennessee are scattered throughout the densely forested foothills of the southern Appalachian Mountains. Most sites sit at elevations between 800-2,000 feet, where summer temperatures average 82°F and winter lows regularly drop below freezing. These tent campsites feature minimal development, with many requiring travel on unpaved forest roads to access the most secluded locations.
What to do
Wading and swimming in creek water: At Lost Creek - Cherokee NF, campers can enjoy accessible water recreation. "There are spots that you can swim around in," notes Scott E., who enjoyed camping near the clear, flowing creek. The campground's proximity to water makes it ideal for cooling off during hot Tennessee summers.
Hiking the Benton McKaye trail: This long-distance trail runs directly beside several tent campsites near Birchwood. According to Chris D., Lost Creek offers "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." The trail connects several campgrounds in the region and offers varying difficulty levels.
Rock climbing opportunities: Foster Falls attracts technical climbers seeking sport climbing routes. "Really beautiful scenery on somewhat strenuous hikes to waterfalls, some good sport climbing, and a few trails that will take you really high up," reports Kelly M. The sandstone cliffs provide routes for various skill levels within walking distance of tent sites.
What campers like
Secluded tent camping spots: At Savage Falls Campground, campers appreciate the privacy between sites. "The camp sites are secluded and spread apart," writes Cole T. The campground offers a "Perfect spot for a short hike-in backcountry camping experience" with a hike in less than two miles.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Despite being primitive, many tent campsites near Birchwood maintain basic facilities. At Lost Creek, Gregg G. notes the campground "offers concrete picnic tables, lantern post, a pit toilet and bear safe trash receptacles." Rayley P. adds, "Each campsite has a concrete table, fire pit, and tent platform."
Waterfall proximity: Foster Falls Campground provides direct access to its namesake waterfall. "Camping was easy and bathrooms were clean. Really beautiful scenery on somewhat strenuous hikes to waterfalls," writes Kelly M., who recommends visiting "when it's warm enough to swim in the waterfall."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most tent campsites near Birchwood have poor connectivity. At Lost Creek, Gregg G. notes there is "no Verizon cell reception," while Chris D. mentions "likely no cell service unless you go one way or another up the mountain."
Water availability varies: Many campgrounds lack reliable water sources. Lost Creek has "no potable water available from a spicket," according to Gregg G. At Savage Gulf State Park, Shelly S. recommends you "Take your own water or filtration system."
Road conditions can be challenging: Several tent campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. Chris D. describes Lost Creek access: "Gravel 7 miles to here," noting the roads "were in decent shape, I could see them being bad after a heavy storm."
Bear activity requires precautions: Wildlife encounters are common near Birchwood tent sites. Scott G. observed "bear scat on my hike in" at Savage Falls, recommending proper food storage. Lost Creek provides "bear safe trash receptacles" to minimize wildlife interactions.
Tips for camping with families
Consider hike distances for children: When selecting tent campsites near Birchwood with kids, evaluate hiking requirements. Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground offers drive-in access and "mountain lake/beach, waterfall, and hiking trails," according to Dan N., making it suitable for various ages.
Scout bathroom facilities: Foster Falls provides more comfort for families with children. Kelly M. notes, "Camping was easy and bathrooms were clean," though Sarah N. cautions facilities "were not the most maintained."
Plan for variable weather: Tennessee's mountain climate can change quickly. Ken O. stayed at Chilhowee and reported, "The campsite was crushed stone chips, and I suspect it would drain well after a storm," noting the "lots of shade" helped moderate temperatures during July.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV-friendly options: Most tent campsites near Birchwood cannot accommodate larger vehicles. Outdoor Adventure Rafting Campground is one exception, with Tyler J. noting it's "a great spot if you either want to go rafting for a weekend or spend the day tubing the lower Ocoee and have a campground all ready for you."
Smaller rigs only: For RVers considering tent campsites near Birchwood, Lost Creek can "accommodate tents and small RVs," according to Brittany S., though the 7-mile gravel forest road access limits larger vehicles.
Consider group camping areas: RV groups might find Black Willow Farm suitable, as Jake C. notes they have "an amazing property with an off grid cabin and tent sites," accommodating various camping styles in one location.
