Cherokee National Forest offers numerous dispersed camping sites near Etowah, Tennessee, with elevations ranging from 700 to 5,000 feet. The area receives approximately 55 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forest conditions and occasional trail challenges. Most dispersed camping areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system in place.
What to do
Creek exploration: Lost Creek Campground provides direct creek access where campers can wade, fish, or simply relax by the water. According to a review, "There are spots that you can swim around in" and "The highlight would definitely be the creek."
Mountain hiking: Starr Mountain Area offers challenging trails with rewarding views. A camper notes, "This place is amazing. The trail isn't really a trail but it's so worth it. if you enter through gee creek rd it's only about half a mile to the top."
Whitewater adventures: The Ocoee River Area provides thrilling whitewater experiences for all skill levels. "It is a thrill when you get to go down some of the drops and class 5 rapids," writes one reviewer, while another mentions, "They do tubing too" for those seeking calmer water activities.
Benton McKaye Trail access: Several tent camping areas connect to this long-distance trail, making multi-day backpacking trips possible. The trail runs "directly beside" Lost Creek Campground according to campers, providing an excellent starting point for day hikes or longer treks.
What campers like
Free camping options: Lost Creek Campground stands out for its no-cost camping with surprising amenities. A camper describes it as "Your classic primitive campground. No generators, water, or porta potties. How camping in the forest should be!"
Privacy and isolation: Many campers value the remote settings. At Lost Creek, one reviewer mentions it's "in the middle of nowhere (7 miles down a gravel forest road)," while another notes, "Super quiet when we were there in March."
Creek proximity: Sites positioned alongside water are particularly popular. A visitor to Lost Creek shares, "Each campsite has a concrete table, fire pit, and tent platform. Some have direct access to the creek."
Mountain views: Big Frog Area offers exceptional scenic rewards for those willing to hike. A camper writes, "One of the most beautiful places I've ever been. Went up there when it was snowing and it was white and just absolutely gorgeous the views are spectacular."
What you should know
Remote locations: Many camping areas require driving on forest roads. A Lost Creek visitor warns, "I could see them being bad after a heavy storm. Gravel 7 miles to here."
Limited facilities: Most primitive sites lack modern amenities. At Goforth Creek Campground, a camper notes it "had some debris from previous campers" and could be "buggy in the summer but a good option in the fall."
Weekend crowds: Popular sites fill quickly on weekends. A recent Lost Creek visitor reported it was "nice but super crowded on the weekend."
Cell service limitations: Don't expect connectivity at most sites. At Lost Creek, campers report "no Verizon cell reception" and at Hiwassee River Area, one visitor appreciated that there's "No phone signal which is ok with us because we like to unplug."
Bear precautions: The Big Frog Area reviewer advises to "watch out for bears" while another camper at Lost Creek mentions the availability of "bear safe trash receptacles."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites: Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground offers more amenities for families with children. A visitor describes it as a "Mountaintop campground with exceptional views, mountain lake/beach, waterfall, and hiking trails."
Consider lake access: Sites near water bodies provide entertainment for children. Chilhowee Lake gets mentioned in reviews as offering beautiful overlooks and water activities.
Plan for weather changes: Mountain conditions can shift rapidly. One Starr Mountain camper advises to "Come prepared to hike hard and to experience unexpected weather if it occurs."
Bring sanitizer: Facilities vary widely between sites. At Lost Creek, a camper notes the "restroom, although primitive (no water—bring along some hand sanitizer), is incredibly clean."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed camping areas can only accommodate smaller RVs or trailers. At Hunts Lodge (now Smitty's Lodge), a reviewer mentions "Campsites are level and spacious" but the area generally caters to tent campers and smaller vehicles.
Road conditions: Forest service roads may present challenges. Lost Creek reviews mention a "well maintained gravel road for 7 miles" but conditions can deteriorate during wet seasons.
Alternative options: When primitive sites won't work, consider established campgrounds with more amenities. One camper at Chilhowee Campground reported, "Our site was clean, shaded and level. We had plenty of space for our 6 x 12 converted cargo trailer camper."
