Camping opportunities around Etowah, Tennessee span elevations from 700 to 3,500 feet in the Cherokee National Forest and surrounding areas. Most dispersed camping spots see temperature variations of 20-30°F between day and night, even in summer months. The region contains over 40 miles of riverside campsites along the Hiwassee, Tellico, and Ocoee waterways.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Multiple trail systems connect directly to campgrounds. At Thunder Rock Campground, "there is a bath house with showers and an area to hose off bikes as well," notes Brittney W. The campground features direct access to the Tanasi trail system.
Waterfall exploration: Several trails lead to scenic falls within short hiking distance. The Benton Falls trail at Chilhowee Recreation Area offers "a fairly easy trail to see beautiful waterfall," according to Anne Marie P. Another camper adds, "Rainbow falls. We didn't go to the swimming beach, because dogs are not allowed."
Creek wading: Many campsites provide direct water access for cooling off. Lost Creek - Cherokee NF features sites positioned along a small creek. "The creek can be used for shallow water wading or fishing," explains Gregg G. Another camper notes, "All you hear is the river at night. No cell service and it's first come first served for a spot."
What campers like
Clean, accessible facilities: Many campgrounds maintain modern bathhouses despite remote locations. At Gee Creek Campground, "The park has a nice size bath house that is heated during the winter. The showers are push valve with no temperature control, so you will periodically have to push the valve for water," writes Gregg G.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between campers. The Chilhowee Recreation Area provides "HUGE spots, and that's even the 'small' ones," according to one visitor at Top of the World RV. Another camper notes Chilhowee has "large private sites throughout. Flush toilets and hot showers nearby. 25 miles of hiking and biking trails starting right from our campsite."
Wildlife viewing: Forested campsites offer opportunities to observe native species. A camper at Gee Creek Campground mentioned, "Whippoorwill called through the evening which was cool." Chilhowee Recreation Area becomes prime for firefly viewing during early summer. "The lightning bugs were breath taking!!" reports Heather W.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Mountain elevations create distinct microclimates with rapid changes. At Chilhowee Campground, "There was rain in the forecast everyday, but it only really rained one day (it was a down pour that lasted ~30 mins). It was fairly humid the rest of the time, with a random sprinkle here and there," reports Manie D.
Road access challenges: Several campgrounds require navigating steep mountain roads. For Chilhowee, "To get to this campground you have to go up a steep narrow windy mountain road," cautions Carissa D. Lost Creek requires "traversing a well maintained gravel road for 7 miles."
Cell coverage gaps: Service varies significantly across the area. In Chilhowee, "There is NO AT&T in spite of what this site says. You may get a weak signal on the other side, but it's spotty at best. There appeared to be a Verizon tower on the mountain, so that will probably work," explains Mike N. Lost Creek offers "no Verizon cell reception."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds include dedicated children's areas. At Parksville Lake RV Campground, one camper notes it's "great for a family get away. Close Creek and hiking provided plenty of activity for little ones and not overly crowded like bigger campgrounds."
Swimming opportunities: Several locations provide safe water access for children. Mecca Camp Resort (now Tellico Plains/Cherokee National Forest KOA Holiday) provides a pool that guests appreciate during hot months: "We loved the pool and spent most of our time there since it was so hot."
Accessibility considerations: Note varying terrain when planning with small children. "This specific site has the driveway and then stairs to the fire/table/tent pad," notes a Chilhowee camper, which might present challenges for families with very young children or mobility concerns.
RV tips
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at several campgrounds. At Top of the World RV, "Because sites are loose gravel, leveling can be a challenge if your rig does not auto level," notes Jeremy B. At Gee Creek, "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."
Dump station logistics: Some campgrounds have unique sewage handling. At Mecca Camp Resort, "They don't have sewer hookup, they come by Mondays and Thursdays to dump your tanks for you with a truck, that's great...but...you have to really watch your water usage so you don't overfill your tanks as you're waiting for a dump day."
Turn radius considerations: Campground roads can present navigation challenges. At Parksville Lake Campground, "Only issue with Parksville lake is that it is a tight drive into the sites." Another camper notes, "My friend who was there pulling a 5th wheel decided not to try it and opted to pay to dump somewhere else."
