The Cherokee National Forest surrounds Cleveland, Tennessee, with camping options scattered throughout its 650,000 acres. Horse campgrounds near Cleveland offer dedicated facilities at elevations ranging from 900 to 1,500 feet, with most sites experiencing moderate humidity and temperatures that range from 85°F in summer to below freezing in winter. Most equestrian camping areas maintain basic facilities while providing direct trail access.
What to do
Hiking near waterfalls: At Hickey Gap Campground, trails lead to impressive cascades. "There is a beautiful waterfall about a mile down trail from camp and tons of great swimming areas!" notes John B.
Fishing opportunities: The Hiwassee River offers productive fishing spots near several camping areas. "The Gee Creek Campground is apart of the Hiwassee/Ocoee State Park. The state park/campground adjoins the Cherokee National Forest and sits on the north bank of the Hiwassee River outside of Benton, TN," reports Gregg G. from Gee Creek Campground.
Bouldering and climbing: Sawmill Lake Campsite provides access to notable climbing areas. "It is, however, a free, primitive camping site just a short 5 min drive (or walk) from the Rocktown trailhead. The close proximity to the many wonders of Rocktown is a dream for climbers," shares Abigail P.
What campers like
Seasonal quietness: Winter camping offers solitude at many locations. "During winter campground is very quiet, no power at sites, it does have hot showers," says Byron R. about Gee Creek Campground.
Swimming spots: Natural swimming areas provide summer relief. "We could spend weeks here and never get board," notes Brandie D. about Fall Creek Falls State Park, adding, "The park itself has a scenic loop drive of the gorge, multiple waterfalls to visit, miles on end of hiking trails in which some cross rope bridges, awesome swimming holes, and even an olympic pool."
Creekside camping: Several sites offer water-adjacent camping. "We were the only campers around and we had an amazing time! Picked a spot right beside a stream," shares Sarah N. about Jacks River Fields Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to equestrian campgrounds can be challenging. "The road up there is all rock/dirt with a several hundred foot drop-off on the right side and no guardrail. There were a few hairpin turns," warns Mike H. about Hickey Gap Campground.
Bathroom facilities: Toilet conditions vary widely at horse campgrounds near Cleveland, Tennessee. "I don't know if anyone even manages it. That's how bad it was. I guess that's what you get from no camp fees," reports Tessa B. about Davis Pond Campsite.
Wildlife awareness: Bears are present in the Cherokee National Forest. "There was a pit toilet with plenty of toilet paper and it was quite clean. There's also a bear box and signs clearly indicating there are bears around and that you should keep all food in your vehicle or use the box," notes Mike H. about Hickey Gap.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play areas. "Clean facilities and nice playground. Whippoorwill called through the evening which was cool," shares Mickey L. about Gee Creek Campground.
Beginner-friendly options: Look for campgrounds with amenities for new campers. "We love to camp at Fall Creek Falls State Park and think this would be a great park for novice campers due to the fact that the facilities are very nice," recommends Sandra V.
Spacing considerations: Campground layouts affect family experiences. "The camp slots on area C are so close to one another that most people couldn't use their fire pits for fear of burning their own tent, or their neighbor's," cautions Andrea S. about Fall Creek Falls State Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Some campsites require substantial leveling equipment. "The sites on the North side of loop A are fairly uneven and would require a significant amount of leveling blocks if using a camper," advises Gregg G. about Gee Creek Campground.
Seasonal accessibility: Winter conditions impact RV camping options. "Very quiet in winter," reports Keith R. about Gee Creek Campground, which maintains year-round accessibility but with limited amenities during colder months.
Clearance considerations: Vehicle clearance matters for accessing some equestrian camping areas. "The last 1/2 mile gets a little dicey and needs a vehicle with some clearance," notes Tessa B. about Davis Pond Campsite.
