Cherokee National Forest surrounds Etowah, Tennessee with densely wooded mountains and clear streams ranging from 800 to 4,500 feet in elevation. Campgrounds in this area accommodate campers year-round with varying facilities, though winter camping options become limited after November when several locations close seasonal facilities.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The Benton Falls trail offers accessible hiking near Chilhowee Recreation Area. "There is a nice nature trail that loops around the park. For a more secluded waterfall experience head to the Rainbow falls," notes Manie D., who visited in July.
River recreation: Access the Ocoee River directly from Thunder Rock Campground for water activities. According to Brittney W., "The campground backs up to the river and a really great hiking trail. There's no ranger station or check in, it's self filled envelopes or registering online."
Mountain biking: The area offers extensive trail networks ideal for cyclists. As one camper at Lost Creek explains, "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."
Swimming spots: Lake access provides summer relief from heat. "Chilhowee has a nice area with picnic tables and beach area. Best thing to us was the hiking trail that we walked with fresh blueberry bushes on our side," shares Anne Marie P.
What campers like
Natural quiet: Campers appreciate the peaceful environment at Lost Creek Campground, particularly during off-peak times. "Super quiet when we were there in March. Toilet could be cleaner but at least it's there. Nice creek view through the side of the campground," reports Chris D.
Spacious sites: Sites at Chilhowee provide good separation between campers. According to Tracy J., "Beautiful, well maintained park. The A&B loops are well spaced and mostly shaded with fairly level gravel pads. Bathhouse was clean and well lit."
Wildlife viewing: Evening wildlife activity enhances the camping experience. Mickey L. stayed at Gee Creek and noted, "Very friendly staff. Clean facilities and nice playground. Whippoorwill called through the evening which was cool."
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers find value at several locations. One camper described 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."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location and carrier. "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," advises Manie D. about Chilhowee.
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires preparation. The drive to Parksville Lake RV Campground "is a tight drive into the sites. Otherwise nice and quiet campground," according to Gary C.
Weather preparation: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Gregg G. notes about Lost Cove Campground, "During our visit in Mid January there were no other visitors at the campground. There is no potable water available from a spicket and no Verizon cell reception."
Noise factors: Highway proximity affects some locations. A Thunder Rock visitor commented, "This campground is right on the road, which is a shame because it is central to mountain biking, hiking, and rafting on the Ocoee River. Semi trucks brake down the mountain ALL night long."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Children have dedicated recreation areas at some campgrounds. At Gee Creek Campground, "The campground also has a playground to keep kids entertained. I definitely recommend if you are looking for a place to stay near the Hiwasee River," advises Anna M.
Swimming beaches: Chilhowee offers family-friendly water access. "We 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 Emerald M.
Loop selection: Different campground sections offer varied experiences. Manie D. suggests, "Loops A&B are closest to the lake and looked great for groups, or folks with kids. Loops E&F were a bit more secluded, and better fit for couples, dogs that don't like a lot of passersby."
Wildlife education: Incorporate nature observation into family activities. "Lightning bugs were breath taking! We stayed at site #39. Next to the trail that leads to the lake. Next to rest room, trash bin, and water spout," reports Heather W. about her Chilhowee experience.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at many sites. Jeremy B. notes at Top of the World RV, "Because sites are loose gravel, leveling can be a challenge if your rig does not auto level."
Tank management: Some campgrounds have limited dumping options. At Tellico Plains KOA, "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," advises Ginger V.
Switchback navigation: Larger rigs face maneuvering challenges. Mike N. describes Chilhowee: "There is only one dump station and it's on the other side of the campground. From the B loop, you have to traverse about a 120 degree switchback to get to it. My friend who was there pulling a 5th wheel decided not to try it."
Site selection strategy: At Parksville Lake, "The R.V. sites are well shaded and well spaced and many will accommodate large R.V.'s. Several sites offer the opportunity for two R.V.'s to camp close together and some are located along a small stream."
