Camping near Cherokee National Forest

Cherokee National Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Cherokee National Forest, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Cherokee National Forest (379)

    1. Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Chuckey, TN
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 257-2167

    $14 - $32 / night

    "Large swimming pool, TONS of historical events around, hiking & river walks. Super clean and new bath houses as well. Honors Tennessee state discounts. If possible make reservations online."

    "The drive in follows the TN “Sunnyside Early Country Trail” through picturesque farmland with mountains in the near distance. Do your shopping before arrival, there’s nothing close to the park."

    2. Hot Springs Campground

    29 Reviews
    Hot Springs, NC
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 622-7676

    "With mountains in the distance and the constant rush of the French Broad River, the setting is awesome. Even the occasional train whistle gives me a feeling of nostalgia and of simple days."

    "The bathhouse (clean private showers and private bathrooms) was a 1/4 mile walk from our spot, but a Porta John was close by. Our particular spot had a lot of shade and easy access to the river."

    3. Nolichucky Gorge Campground

    12 Reviews
    Erwin, TN
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 743-8876

    "Nolichucky Gorge is right next to USA Raft, same road, same entrance to the left. Veteran owned and well maintained. The staff is friendly and professional. River view sites, other sites and cabins."

    "This is a great spot located right next to USA Raft. There are a handful of tent only riverside camping spots with RV sites set back from the river."

    4. Horse Creek Recreation Area

    4 Reviews
    Afton, TN
    3 miles
    Website

    $10 / night

    "Having both RV and tent campgrounds, each with large fire pits and lantern stands, this peaceful creekside setting lies just beyond low mountain farms in the northern part of Greene County Tennessee."

    "Nice trails."

    5. Old Forge Recreation Area

    2 Reviews
    Cherokee National Forest, TN
    1 mile
    Website

    "Good trails along the rolling hills and creeks. Very simple rustic site with very little facilities. Pros: very wooded and private large campsites, babbling creek, outhouses."

    6. Baileyton KOA Holiday

    14 Reviews
    Ducktown, TN
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 234-4992

    "Conveniently located close to highway 81 and town!"

    "Even though it's very close to the interstate, it was very quiet. We had a full hook up site, relatively level. It had a picnic table and fire ring."

    7. Katy Branch

    4 Reviews
    Erwin, TN
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 638-4109

    $75 / night

    "Very close to many trails. Clean showers and bathrooms. Loved it."

    "Came to stay at this campground because we wanted to do some hiking nearby that we haven't done in FOREVER!"

    8. Bald Mountains

    1 Review
    Flag Pond, TN
    6 miles

    9. Rich Mountain

    3 Reviews
    Hot Springs, TN
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 257-4200

    "The road intersects with the Appalachian trail so you might meet up with some thru hikers. I recommend walking all the way up to rich mountain fire tower."

    "Good access and hand full of spots scattered around on NFR 31. Please pack in what you pack out."

    10. Old Mountain Campground

    1 Review
    Cherokee National Forest, TN
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 638-3236
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Showing results 1-10 of 379 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Cherokee National Forest

1834 Reviews of 379 Cherokee National Forest Campgrounds



Guide to Cherokee National Forest

Camping near Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax in nature, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: The area is known for its stunning trails. Campers love the access to trails like Hen Wallow Falls and the Appalachian Trail. One reviewer mentioned, "It is also probably a 15-20 min walk to the Appalachian trail" at Cosby Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds are near rivers and lakes, perfect for fishing. A visitor at Hot Springs Campground said, "Great fishing in the Nolichucky River, but very dangerous river, DO NOT SWIM IN."
  • Exploring Local Towns: Check out nearby towns for food and shopping. One camper noted, "Highly recommend the Hot Springs hot tubs, Big Pillow Brewing Co for food/drinks" while staying at Hot Springs Campground.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground highlighted, "Very clean facilities. Friendly staff and quick check-in."
  • Secluded Spots: Many enjoy the privacy of certain campsites. One camper at Roan Mountain State Park Campground mentioned, "Sites are well maintained and flat on the lower section."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Asheville East KOA offer activities for kids, with one reviewer stating, "There is a pool, playground, gaga ball pit, golf car rentals, fishing and splashing in the Swannanoa River."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Weekends: Many campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Asheville East KOA noted, "It was comfortable during the weekdays, but started to get crowded during the weekend."
  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell coverage in some areas. A camper at Black Mountain Campground mentioned, "No cell service whatsoever even with a booster."
  • Weather Changes: The weather can shift quickly in the mountains. A reviewer at Mount Mitchell State Park Campground advised, "Be careful with the weather. It can change very quickly."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One parent at Asheville East KOA said, "There are fun events for kids on the weekends."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make things easier. A camper at Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground mentioned, "Do your shopping before arrival, there’s nothing close to the park."
  • Plan for Quiet Time: With kids, it's good to have downtime. A visitor at Roan Mountain State Park Campground noted, "During our mid-week visit it was quiet."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground said, "Pay attention to the site size as some RVs had issues getting their larger RVs in their sites."
  • Be Ready for Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A camper at Asheville West KOA mentioned, "The interstate noise was insane."
  • Use Dump Stations Wisely: Know where the nearest dump station is located. A visitor at Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground noted, "The camp store has a small offering of RV accessories and ice for $2.00."

Camping near Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, there's something for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Cherokee National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, Cherokee National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 379 campgrounds and RV parks near Cherokee National Forest and 27 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Cherokee National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cherokee National Forest is Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 20 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cherokee National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 27 free dispersed camping spots near Cherokee National Forest.

What parks are near Cherokee National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 31 parks near Cherokee National Forest that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.