Tent camping options near Copperhill, Tennessee range through the rugged southern Appalachian terrain of the Cherokee National Forest at elevations between 1,400 and 4,200 feet. The area experiences mild springs and falls with summer temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than lower elevations. Creek and riverside camping spots often fill quickly during summer weekends, with midweek visits providing better site selection.
What to do
Creek exploration and swimming: Lost Creek Campground offers multiple spots for wading and swimming. "The highlight would definitely be the creek. There are spots that you can swim around in," notes Scott E., though he recommends checking water levels which can vary with recent rainfall.
Mountain biking on forest service roads: Goforth Creek Campground provides access to miles of rideable terrain. The nearby area 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," according to Chris D., who visited Lost Creek.
Fly fishing from campsites: The Hiwassee River Area offers direct river access for fishing. "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," reports Katrin S., highlighting the importance of timing your fishing around dam release schedules.
What campers like
Natural water sources: Your Toccoa River Cove features drinking water from natural springs. "There is a spring you can drink straight out of, and streams criss-crossing the entire area if you want the rugged feeling of purifying your own water," writes Stephanie J., describing the 12-acre woodland site.
True primitive experience: Creekside Camp offers minimal amenities with maximum nature immersion. "No picnic tables or pit toilets. Flat campsites next to a very nice creek," states Bob P., highlighting the undeveloped nature of this dispersed camping location.
First-come-first-serve camping: Several campers note the benefit of free, no-reservation sites. "It's a free campsite so it's first come first serve and everyone we've met so far there have been the friendliest of people," reports Rayley P. about Lost Creek Campground, adding that each site includes "a concrete table, fire pit, and tent platform."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most forest camping areas have limited or no reception. "No Verizon cell reception," reports Gregg G. about Lost Creek Campground, while Chris D. adds "likely no cell service unless you go one way or another up the mountain."
Road conditions: Many of the best tent camping near Copperhill, Tennessee requires travel on unpaved roads. Big Frog Area access roads can be challenging after rain. Lost Creek Campground is "in the middle of nowhere (7 miles down a gravel forest road)," according to Tyler J., who appreciates that this remote location creates "primitive bliss" with "no generators, water, or porta potties."
Water availability: Few sites have potable water access. "There is no potable water available from a spicket" at Lost Creek Campground according to Gregg G., making water packing essential for camping trips in this area.
Tips for camping with families
Creek-adjacent sites for kids: Select sites along water for natural play areas. "Each campsite has a concrete table, fire pit, and tent platform. Some have direct access to the creek. Great hikes around and good place to fish and hunt," explains Rayley P. about Lost Creek.
Spacious sites for multiple tents: Look for sites that accommodate larger groups. "We had 2 tents and could have fit 3 more," notes Katrin S. about the Hiwassee River Area's spacious camping areas.
Alternative accommodations: For families new to camping, Unique shelter in the NC foothills offers a transitional option. "The shelter is made from an old, HUGE air conditioning vent... There are nice, cushy mattresses to lay down on... If you are looking for a different place to rest and want to spend your time outdoors, this is a nice alternative to an expensive hotel room," describes Erin S.
Tips from RVers
Small RV limitations: Most dispersed camping areas can only accommodate smaller recreational vehicles. "The sites can accommodate tents and small RVs, complete with concrete picnic tables and a fire ring," notes Brittany S. about Lost Creek Campground, but larger RVs should seek established campgrounds.
Driveway constraints: Some private camping areas have significant access limitations. Your Toccoa River Cove has specific vehicle restrictions: "The driveway down to the shelter is very steep, and does not allow much space to turn around. RVs or larger trucks will not fit," warns Stephanie J., adding that only one vehicle may park at the base with others parking at the entrance.
