Dispersed camping opportunities near Coker Creek, Tennessee range from basic primitive sites to full-service campgrounds across the Cherokee National Forest. The region sits at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet with typical mountain weather patterns including frequent afternoon thunderstorms during summer months and occasional snow during winter. Water temperatures in creeks remain cool year-round, rarely exceeding 65°F even during the hottest months.
What to do
Hiking trails at Indian Boundary: Access a 3.5-mile loop trail around the lake perfect for families and pets. "Great hiking trail around lake fun to kayak and fish on also has a swimming area and large picnic area that's covered," notes Kaitlyn in her Indian Boundary review.
Waterfall exploration: Cherokee National Forest contains numerous accessible waterfalls within short driving distance from most campsites. "There is a small hike to Cumberland Falls, which is gorgeous!!" shares Alison B. about her experience at Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Creek wading and fishing: Many primitive sites offer direct water access. A Scott E. review of Lost Creek Campground notes: "We chose a spot next to the creek. Was clear and flowing due to a lot of rain the few days before we arrived... The highlight would definitely be the creek. There are spots that you can swim around in."
Mountain biking: The region includes designated bike trails with maintenance facilities. Asher K. mentions at Thunder Rock Campground: "They also have a mountain bike cleaning station since there are several trails accessible from the campground."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers frequently mention the space between camping spots as a major plus. At Indian Boundary, Michael G. comments that "Sites not exceedingly close" while Tracy J. notes about Chilhowee that the "A&B loops are well spaced and mostly shaded with fairly level gravel pads."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high in positive reviews. Jon D. mentions Cherohala Mountain Trails Campground "Bathrooms are clean. Firewood is free. They also have free meals that depend on the day of the week."
Budget-friendly options: Free and low-cost camping sites appeal to many visitors. Brittany S. describes Lost Creek as "incredibly clean + quiet—and completely free. It's in the middle of nowhere (7 miles down a gravel forest road), surrounded by forest, with easy creek access."
Wildlife viewing: The protected forest setting provides opportunities to spot native wildlife. Amber A. reminds visitors at Indian Boundary to "Obey the rules about bears! We met people who saw one recently."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many sites require navigating forest service roads of varying quality. Victor S. explains about Sourwood Campground: "It would absolutely NOT be a good location for a class A motorhome but maybe some of the smaller class C's could get settled in there."
Limited cell service: Connectivity is inconsistent throughout the region. Gregg G. reports about Lost Creek: "There is no potable water available from a spicket and no Verizon cell reception."
Bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between established and primitive sites. At Gee Creek Campground, Gregg G. describes: "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."
Site availability: Most primitive sites operate on first-come, first-served basis with no reservations. Rayley P. notes about Lost Creek: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas that are kid-friendly. Jason J. writes about Parksville Lake RV Campground: "The group sites are set up with tent pads around a central fire ring and picnic table area... The campground also has a playground to keep kids entertained."
Playground access: Playgrounds provide entertainment options for younger campers. Nathan B. commented about Gee Creek Campground: "Had a great family outing. Bathrooms were clean and site were nice too."
Evening wildlife: Local fauna provides natural entertainment. Mickey L. shares about Gee Creek: "Very friendly staff. Clean facilities and nice playground. Whippoorwill called through the evening which was cool."
Educational opportunities: Look for ranger programs and nature-centered activities. Alison B. mentions about Indian Boundary: "My family goes to Indian Boundary every year and we have pretty much my whole life... There's a lake with a sandy area, and a beautiful mountain range to enjoy. It's my favorite camping spot!"
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require extensive leveling equipment. Mike N. cautions about Chilhowee: "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."
Water management: Several campgrounds lack water hookups, requiring tank management. Ginger V. explains about Tellico Plains/Cherokee National Forest KOA Holiday: "They don't have sewer hookup, they come by Mondays and Thursdays to dump your tanks for you with a truck... but you have to really watch your water usage so you don't overfill your tanks as you're waiting for a dump day."
Site selection for shade: Summer heat makes shade selection important. Ginger further advises: "If you get a back in spot - you'll be blasted by the sun all afternoon/evening... so in the hot months I'd recommend paying a little extra and the pull through, you'll have shade from your RV in the evenings."
Road navigation: Access roads may present challenges for larger rigs. Jeremy B. notes about Top of the World RV: "Getting to it can be tricky as TN-68 has steep grades and decent curves but is doable for all but the absolute longest of rigs."
