Best Tent Camping near Delano, TN
Looking for the best tent campgrounds near Delano? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Delano. Search nearby tent campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Tent Sites Near Delano, Tennessee (69)
1. Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
9 Reviews•18 Photos•279 SavesReliance, TennesseeLost Creek Campground is located along the banks of Big Lost Creek. This primitive campground offers remote camping and is surrounded by dense forest and creeks. Lost Creek Campground is open year round. Sites are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. While staying at Lost Creek, campers can enjoy fishing in Big Lost Creek (note: special regulations are in effect for fishing in Big Lost Creek).
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- Picnic Table
2. Big Frog Area
5 Reviews•5 Photos•15 SavesOcoee, TennesseeView of Big Frog Mountain Area of Cherokee National Forest This area is known for solitude and backcountry adventure, with Big Frog Wilderness being a destination for backpacking, day-hiking and hunting. The area offers about 35 miles of backcountry trails, some of which climb to over 4,000 feet. In addition to the backcountry hiking opportunities, the area is also managed as a Black Bear reserve. Try snorkeling at Conasauga River, renowned for remarkable fish viewing. Pitch a tent at Tumbling Creek or Sylco Campgrounds. Big Frog Area Map Big Frog Area Guide
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3. Starr Mountain Area
2 Reviews•9 Photos•55 SavesDelano, TennesseeView from Starr Mountain in Cherokee National Forests Starr Mountain is a popular area of the national forest for horse riding & camping with nearly 20 miles of trails and a number of roads available for riding. Lost Corral Campground & Trailhead provides the easiest access to the area. This zone also features Gee Creek Wilderness and the Gee Creek Trail #191 trail that only gets more challenging the further you hike. Access is located off US Highway 411 near the Hiwassee River and state managed Gee Creek Campground. Starr Mountain Area Map Starr Mountain Area Guide
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
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4. Hiwassee River Area
3 Reviews•7 Photos•64 SavesTurtletown, TennesseeView of Hiwassee River from Hood Mountain Overlook in Cherokee National Forest Forested hillsides and pastoral river bottoms complement the beauty of Hiwassee River Gorge. Fishing, rafting, canoeing and hiking are popular activities. The 21-mile John Muir National Recreation Trail , a section of the longer distance Benton MacKaye Trail, meanders along the river. Camp at the nearby state campground at Gee Creek. Fish Your National Forests: This site can be accessed by Passenger Car; Fish available include: Trout; Types of fishing available include: Wade, Shore, Motorized boat, Fly; Boat Launch available Hiwassee River Area Map Hiwassee River Area Guide
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5. Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground
2 Reviews•7 Photos•23 SavesBenton, TennesseeOverview
Located in the Chilhowee Recreation Area, Chilhowee Group Camp offers camping for up to 75 individuals. Nearby McKamy Lake offers a swim area with a sandy beach and fishing from the bank. On the drive up to the campground, stop at one of the many observation overlooks to enjoy the beautiful mountains. Wildlife is abundant in this area, so have your camera ready and tread lightly.
Recreation
Within the recreation area are approximately 25 miles of hiking and biking trails including the Chilhowee Trails System. Chilhowee Group camp is an excellent location for wildlife viewing and accessing a nearby scenic waterfall. Fishing is available on the seven-acre McKamy Lake. Boats are allowed, but gasoline motors are not.
Natural Features
The campground is located near the top of Chilhowee Mountain at an elevation of 2,000 feet. It is in a mixed hardwood and pine forest and the lake is a short walk from the group camp.
Nearby Attractions
In addition to the immediate local activities, world class whitewater rafting opportunities are nearby on the Ocoee and Hiwassee Rivers.
Charges & Cancellations
Goup areas must be cancelled more than 14 days from reservation date to get refund. The $8.00 service fee will still be charged for the reservation
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$50 / night
6. Smitty's Lodge Motorcycle Campground
3 Reviews•2 Photos•1 SaveTellico Plains, Tennessee- Fires
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- Reservable
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$20 / night
7. Outdoor Adventure Rafting Campground
2 Reviews•2 Photos•6 SavesBenton, TennesseeOur Ocoee River Camping site is located on a 6 acre campground where you can park, set up site, build a fire, and hang out. Hammock campers have plenty of trees to choose from and the shade helps keep you cool on those hot summer days. If that’s not cool enough, our property borders the Lower Ocoee and has two take outs allowing easy access into and out of the river for those looking to float or take a swim.
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8. Ocoee River Area
1 Review•20 SavesReliance, TennesseeView of Parksville Lake in Cherokee National Forest World class whitewater, mountain biking trail systems, environmental education programs, highly developed camping, and scenic byways are a few activities featured in the Ocoee River area. Local outfitters offer rafting excursions in the Ocoee River’s world-class whitewater. The Ocoee Whitewater Center is a hub for outdoor adventure and offers regional information, environmental education, trails and picnic sites. Bike the 30-mile Tanasi Trailcomplex and trails at Chilhowee Recreation Area or take a scenic drive along the Ocoee Scenic Byway (US 64 and Forest Road 77). Popular camping areas include Parksvilleand Thunder Rock Campgrounds, as well as Chilhowee Recreation Area. Ocoee River Area Map Ocoee River Area Guide
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10. Hickey Gap (Cohutta WMA)
3 Reviews•19 Photos•123 SavesCrandall, Georgia- Pets
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- ADA Access
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- Group
- Equestrian
Recent Tent Reviews near Delano, Tennessee
1163 Reviews of 69 Delano Campgrounds
Lori H.
Legend
Soaring Eagle Campground
Primitive tent sites
The primitive tent sites are amazing, I didn’t give it 5 stars only because you can hear a little bit of road noise, as the campground is near the interstate. If you visit in spring, the lake water may not have risen yet, so summer would be better if you want to enjoy lake front camping! We took our rooftop tent and had a perfect corner spot next to the creek. Plenty of room on each site for tent camping. The bath house is pretty far away too. Overall, we love this campground, and the tent sites are the best, can’t wait to camp here this summer!
Natalie C.
Scout
Doll Mountain
Lovely views and great lake swimming
We had 3 couples who spent the long weekend for 4th of July (2016) on two sites in the walk-in tent camping area. There are (non-flush) potties at the tent camping area, but if you're grossed out by those, it's a couple of minutes drive to the closest bath house. The bath house was very satisfactory and pretty clean, plus plenty of hot water. There's a (steep!) trail from the tent camping area down to the lake with some good places for swimming. It would probably be tough to walk a kayak down to the water from tent sites, though. We found the gravel tent pads well maintained and clean.
The location near Ellijay is great. We visited a couple of area wineries, and there's a fun mountain bike trail at Woodring Branch rec area (directly across the lake from Doll Mtn. Campground, but no direct route to get there, so it's about a 45 minute drive.)
George & Patty C.
Ranger
Vogel State Park Campground
Beautiful Park
We spent our three-day Memorial Day weekend at Vogel State Park. We camped in a tent. The staff is very friendly/helpful and the facilities are pristine. Our campsite (#70) was located directly across from the bathhouse and was huge for a "tent" site...we have a 17'x9' tent and the site accommodated our tent, two vehicles and a 5'x8' utility trailer with room to spare! The park has beautiful views and is only a short distance from Brasstown Bald and Helton Creek Falls. The park store had most of the supplies that you would need for camping but, if not, there is a Dollar General located just a few miles away. This is our favorite of the GA State Parks so far!! There are kayak, pedal boat, paddle board and bicycle rentals available!
- GGarren M.Scout
Gee Creek Campground — Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park
Family friendly
Nice pull in paved spots for every tent site. Playgrounds and bath houses were kept nice and clean. The loops where the tent sites are can’t be quite busy so keep an eye on the kiddos
- Lori H.Legend
Adventures Unlimited Campground
Let the good times roll!
Adventures Unlimited is located in Ocoee, TN, just outside of Chattanooga, and is one of the coolest river towns I’ve been to. The Ocoee River was the site for the 1996 Olympics whitewater events. There are numerous outfitters for everything you can do on the river, and this place is the best we’ve visited. We did the Classic Middle Ocoee Rafting Adventure, with Leon as our guide. He was awesome! He wore a Viking helmet (which looks really cool in our pics!) and had vast knowledge of the river and area, and said he’s been guiding for 20 years, so yeah, the best! I would highly recommend Leon if you take a trip!
The campground is HUGE for tent camping. There are hundreds of great tent sites, and the whole place has a great vibe. I wouldn’t really recommend it for children, it feels more like a grown up place, as the area is filled with kayakers, guides, college kids, etc., and these people have FUN! And there’s the Bus Bar, which I’ll cover in a bit. We stayed in site 13 on the rv sites, and it was nice. All the sites are spacious, most have plenty of shade, except for 6,7,8, they are in the middle and not much shade there. The rv sites have water and electric, and they have a dump station. The bath house is at the front entrance, it was very clean, with 4 restrooms and showers. They also have bungalows, and they looked awesome.
This place has two restaurants, The Cafe was closed, I’m assuming due to covid, I believe they serve breakfast and lunch there. And The Bus Bar- this place is a must! They have literally converted two yellow school busses into a bar! The restrooms are in one of the busses and the other is where the actual bar is. They have live music on weekends, and there is a very eclectic vibe. Great people watching! You will hear music from your campsite until around midnight. We didn’t try the food, but they have pizza and wings on their menu, so what else do you need?!
The office is where you check in for rafting, they also sell ice, water shoes, t-shirts, etc. and the people in there were super friendly. This is one of my favorite “fun” places we’ve stayed, it truly was an adventure! We will definitely be returning!
Asher K.Legend
Persimmon Creek RV Park
Tent and RV Camping
This is a beautiful secluded site just off of Highway 64/74 not too far from the Tennessee border. The campground is very well kept and has wonderful amenities for both RV and tent campers. I was very impressed with the gorgeous grassy areas along the creek providing a private space for tent camping. They also have large shaded spots for RVs in other areas. Each site has a picnic bench and plenty of room to spread out. If you are like me and prefer tent camping I would recommend staying at one of the sites near the entrance as they have an almost magical feel to them. I also like that this campground provides great access to both hiking in Nantahala National Forest as well as rafting and kayaking on one of the many rivers in the area.
Sean7
Traveler
Indian Boundary
Great Choice for Anyone
Great experience tent camping in the overflow lot, all the amenities were amazing and the area was beautiful! This is a must visit location.
- Elaine H.
Guide
Trackrock Campground & Cabins
Get away from it all!
We tent camped here October 2013 on site 36 which backed up to the national forest. Beautiful mountain views and horseback riding on site!! Bathhouse was clean.
Jordan M.Scout
Harrison Bay State Park Campground
Clean camp sites and Hot showers
Staff was very helpful in finding the right spot. Campsites are clean and hot showers are abundant. We tent camped, but the park is more suited for RVs or TTs
- Sean7Traveler
Starr Mountain Area
WARNING: DIFFICULT HIKE
Very intense hike up the mountain but the views are worth it! Hammock camping is ideal here, unsure of tent camping possibilities. Come prepared to hike hard and to experience unexpected weather if it occurs
Michael H.Guide
Fort Mountain State Park Campground
Great Campground
We love camping at Fort Mountain. Its usually a good bit cooler due to the elevation, and the private wooded campsites make tent camping in Georgia’s summer heat much more enjoyable. Good hiking and things to do nearby.
- FFrank L.Guide
Harrison Bay State Park Campground
Beautiful views!!!
Tent camping and we had s beautiful spot. But big problem, the aggregate for the tent pad was so compressed we could not set a stake. Had to move tent off pad! Bathrooms very clean in tent loop. Shame on government for not putting funds into pool maintenance. It was shut down. Deer wandering all around!!!
- Elizabeth W.Guide
Morganton Point Campground
Great day use area!
Small campground, a few nice waterfront spots for small RVs, 6 tent camping spots all waterfront. Very nice clean & newish bathrooms. Dump station was also clean, large & new feeling. There were some sewage winds in sites near the bathroom.
- BBrian P.Traveler
Mountain Creek Rest
Secluded, tranquil and gorgeous!
So, while I believe whole heartedly in the title, I must also disclose that I am the owner of Mountain Creek Rest, and that I rented my own tent site to be sure that The Dyrt's rental platform would perform properly for future guests!
With that said It is true that the Heartstone tent site at Mountain Creek Rest is secluded, romantic, and stunningly beautiful! My exclusive parking was right next to the tent platform, picnic table, and charcoal grille!
The bathroom was just off to the side, and was clean and fresh.
The campsite also had a firepit area with benches overlooking the tumbling Squally Creek!
I hope that you, as a prospective guest, will come and see for yourself what a wonderful spot this is. Truly Yours, Brian
- SSarah V.Guide
Cades Cove Campground
Love this smokies campground
Great smokies campground. Nice walking trail and beautiful scenic loop to drive. Along the drive there are historic buildings and cemeteries. Tent sites were too close together. Not enough privacy
Michael T.GuideFort Mountain State Park Campground
A lot offered in a well kept site
This is a great park with a lot to offer and more in the near vicinity.
Cell reception (T-Mobile) was non-existent in the site. However, there was reception at the trading post and possibly elsewhere.
They're installing Bear Boxes in tent sites back and front country (as I understood it) and are clearly paying attention to what people want and how to improve visitors experiences.
A lot of the sites are RV orientated. But the walk in tent sites are really close to the parking area. Also, nearby backcountry platforms and sites can be easily accessed.
If you want walking access to the trails, it's probably best to choose a site near the lake as that's where most trails are accessed from.
Robyn T.Guide
Fontana Village Resort and Campground
Prime spot for easy living
Loudest noise is the dam above grounds. The hum is soothing and constant. Water flows downriver at different depths before you eyes. The lights on dam at night, mesmerizing. Simple and low key campground. Mostly made of tent camping. Bathhouse is small but clean.
Jake C.Legend
Black Willow Farm
Off -Grid with the necessities
Jake from the Dyrt here! I had the pleasure of working with Black Willow Farm, and they have an amazing property with an off grid cabin and tent sites to come! Check them out show them some love!
- Paul J.Traveler
Lake Conasauga Overflow Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest
Beautiful camp
Conasauga Lake campground is heaven on earth for this country boy. On top of Grassy mountain in North Georgia it is a great small camper / tent camp. Lots of large hemlocks and rotadendren on the trail aroundthe lake. The gravel road up the mountain is not for the faint of heart but worth the effort.
- FFrank L.Guide
Murphy/Peace Valley KOA
Had a great time
These folkes are hands on! Kat the host was awesome! We tent camped and it was shady and cool! Farm animals will be seen and heard across the stream and add to the charm. The coes come down for a drink and you can hear Mariah Carey opps i mean turkey sing ( much better). Very very dog friendly!
- Lauren M.Guide
Vogel State Park Campground
Quiet and Peaceful
I stayed in a walk in tent site right beside the creek and it’s been one of my favorite sites to date. They were doing renovations on a few sites around me but I was never bothered by noise. Very clean showers!
- kkristine F.Traveler
Cheoah Point Campground
beautiful lake
The location is really beautiful. the tent sites are nice, especially the ones on the point. The rv sites are a bit small with no shade. Bathrooms were ok...not super clean and no soap, toilet paper etc. Wish there was better water access without having to leave the campground.
- LLaura D.Scout
Gee Creek Campground — Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park
Quiet and safe
Very nice campground with large tent sites with fairly level ground capable of sitting 2 or 3 tents. Most have mature trees to hang hammocks. Very quiet during weekdays. Bath house is relatively nice for a state park campground. 1 mile walking path surrounding the grounds is nice. Safe area for bicycle riding. Great proximity to many outdoor activities. Friendly staff at the park office. Nice place!
- BBeaGuide
Whispering Pines Campground
Beautiful setting with Creek
This is a lovely little campground with lots of shade and a gurgling creek. They have nice tent sites and all the way up to fitting our 43’ fifth wheel. Our site backed up to the creek, which we really enjoyed. The pool was out of commission - just saying in case important to anyone else.
- Asher K.Legend
Rivers Edge Mountain RV Resort
Nice RV Campground
This is a very nice and well-maintained RV park off of the main highway. It is a great option if you are looking for somewhere to base your adventure from but I wouldn't recommend it if you are like me and looking for a more tent camping focused site. Overall, it is in a great area and could be a great place to set as a home base.
Heather P.Ranger
Kickstand Lodge
Motorcycle camping!
Cabins and tents sites. Choose your tent sites wisely as some can get pretty muddy.
We chose a site close to the barn and the stream that runs through. A nice site but was a bit muddy in certain locations.
There is a pavilion with a cooking area. While we were there, a group of folks were cooking up a huge meal and were nice enough to offer us to join them. While we declined it was a generous offer. Plenty of seating in the covered pavilion.
Bath house & rest rooms were super clean and extremely well stocked. Towles, soaps, shampoo, heck even hair dryers. Washer and Dryers, you name it, if you needed it they had it.
Very close to The Dragon/Deals Gap.
Annie C.LegendCades Cove Campground
Cade's Cove Campground-Smoky Mountain National Park
Nice big (150+sites) campground. Flush toilets and water, no showers. There's a nice little camp store where you can rent bikes. I would not come here in the summer, way too busy, but since it is an open year round campground, come in the off season. Great jumping off spot for hiking! The standard picnic tables and fire rings, level tent sites.
Guide to Delano
Tent camping near Delano, Tennessee offers a variety of scenic locations for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities
- The Lost Creek - Cherokee NF provides picnic tables and fire pits at each site, making it a comfortable spot for cooking and gathering around the fire.
- At the Hiwassee River Area, campers can enjoy access to drinking water, showers, and restrooms, ensuring a more convenient camping experience.
- The Smitty's Lodge Motorcycle Campground features clean restrooms and showers, along with picnic tables and fire pits for a cozy camping atmosphere.
Activities for outdoor enthusiasts
- Fishing and hiking are popular at the Lost Creek - Cherokee NF, where visitors can explore the surrounding trails and enjoy the serene creek views.
- The Ocoee River Area is perfect for thrill-seekers, offering exciting whitewater rafting opportunities along with tent camping options.
- For those who enjoy biking, the Big Frog Area provides numerous trails to explore, making it a great destination for both camping and cycling.
Tips for tent camping near Delano
- Arrive early at the Hiwassee River Area to secure a good spot, as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis and can get crowded on weekends.
- Be prepared for primitive conditions at the Goforth Creek Campground E, where amenities are limited, but the natural beauty is abundant.
- If you're looking for a more secluded experience, consider the Bald River Falls Primitive #1, which offers a peaceful setting away from the hustle and bustle of more popular campgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Delano, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Delano, TN is Lost Creek - Cherokee NF with a 4.8-star rating from 9 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Delano, TN?
TheDyrt.com has all 69 tent camping locations near Delano, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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