Camping areas near Delano, Tennessee, primarily sit within the Cherokee National Forest, which spans over 650,000 acres across eastern Tennessee. Elevations range from 750 to 5,400 feet, creating microclimates that affect seasonal camping conditions. Most campgrounds maintain vault or flush toilets year-round, though water systems typically shut down between November and April when temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Lake swimming at McKemy: 3-mile loop trail offers access to a sandy beach area perfect for summer swimming. "We even took a dip at the swimming area just a short drive from the campsite and loved that too! The best part was how quiet it all got after dark and the frogs just lulled us to sleep," shares one Chilhowee visitor.
Whitewater adventures on the Ocoee: Class III-IV rapids are accessible from multiple campgrounds in the area. An Adventures Unlimited Campground camper notes, "This campground is in a great location. It sits on the same grounds as a rafting company and an outdoor bar/pub called The Bus. You can travel about 15 minutes and you are in Cleveland just north of Chattanooga."
Fishing in mountain lakes: Year-round access for anglers with proper Tennessee fishing license. "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 a camper from the Hiwassee River Area.
What campers like
Private camping spaces: Well-spaced sites with natural barriers between neighbors. "Large private sites throughout. Flush toilets and hot showers nearby. 25 miles of hiking and biking trails starting right from our campsite. F loop is very quiet during the week. $12 non electric," says a visitor at Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Yurt camping near Delano: Climate-controlled alternatives to traditional tent camping with sturdy permanent structures. One visitor to Olde English Farm noted their "Glamping campsites with solar shower, queen bed, memory foam mattress, night stands, all the essential cookware, campfire and grill, bathroom facilities, extra 4 person tent. A secluded, quiet and peaceful Private campground with fishing in their 3 acre pond and Miles of hiking Trails."
Clean facilities: Recently renovated washrooms with reliable hot water and maintenance staff. A recent camper mentioned, "This was a great find! The staff is friendly and grounds are kept very clean. There are cabins, a couple RV sites, and the rest of the grounds are available to pitch a tent wherever you want to."
What you should know
GPS navigation issues: Alternative routes required for some campgrounds. "Be sure to read the instructions on the park website about how to get here! Google will lead you astray! It was raining when we arrived, and I was so grateful for the nice new road, especially after seeing the road Google wanted us to take."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies by carrier with most areas having spotty reception. "There is no WiFi or AT&T cellular signal in this park. However, if you drive to any of the scenic overlooks just outside the park, you will get AT&T LTE signal."
Bear activity: Proper food storage essential at all campgrounds in the area. "Our site was probably the worst designed one. Really strange back-in in the shape of an L over a creek with the electric on the wrong side. Probably why it was still available. But we made it work," shares one Fort Mountain State Park Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Rental equipment available at several recreation areas from May-September. "There is a lake for paddling, swimming, or fishing. For those who like to hike, there is a trail around the lake. One can also use this trail for bike riding," notes a visitor to Indian Boundary.
Playground access: Limited options for younger children outside of organized recreation areas. "Took the kids camping several times, not too far from town, but great hiking, fishing close. Good lake swimming area. Sites not exceedingly close."
Yurt accommodations near Delano: Ideal for families new to camping with comfortable sleeping arrangements. "We had a group there for the white water rafting. We could walk down from the cabin to check-in for white water rafting excursion. There is a campground store at the check-in, as well."
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Limited availability requires planning for longer stays. "The roads in the campground are narrow and again, some of the turns are sharp when pulling a trailer. There is only one dump station and it's on the other side of the campground."
Water hookup considerations: Many sites require filling tanks before parking. "You'll need to fill your fresh water tanks before you set up. There is no water hook up at the sites, only power (30A). Water spigots can be found throughout the campground."
Road conditions: Steep grades and switchbacks present challenges for larger rigs. "Coming up the mountain has some steep grades and a few switch backs that you can't see around. There are often oncoming vehicles who are often driving too fast and not considering those of us in large vehicles."
