Best Tent Camping near Etowah, TN

If you're looking for a place to pitch your tent near Etowah, look no further. The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. Would you prefer a quiet dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities? Either way, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Etowah, TN (60)

    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF

    1. Lost Creek - Cherokee NF

    9 Reviews
    18 Photos
    274 Saves
    Reliance, Tennessee

    Lost 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).

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Starr Mountain Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Starr Mountain Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Starr Mountain Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Starr Mountain Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Starr Mountain Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Starr Mountain Area

    2. Starr Mountain Area

    2 Reviews
    9 Photos
    52 Saves
    Delano, Tennessee

    View 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

    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Hiwassee River Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hiwassee River Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hiwassee River Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hiwassee River Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hiwassee River Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hiwassee River Area

    3. Hiwassee River Area

    3 Reviews
    7 Photos
    64 Saves
    Turtletown, Tennessee

    View 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

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Smitty's Lodge Motorcycle Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smitty's Lodge Motorcycle Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground

    5. Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground

    2 Reviews
    7 Photos
    23 Saves
    Benton, Tennessee

    Overview

    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

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Big Frog Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Frog Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Frog Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Frog Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Frog Area

    6. Big Frog Area

    5 Reviews
    5 Photos
    14 Saves
    Ocoee, Tennessee

    View 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

    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Camp/Citico Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Camp/Citico Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Camp/Citico Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Camp/Citico Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Camp/Citico Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Outdoor Adventure Rafting Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Outdoor Adventure Rafting Campground

    8. Outdoor Adventure Rafting Campground

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    6 Saves
    Benton, Tennessee

    Our 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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash
    • No image available

      9. Ocoee River Area

      1 Review
      20 Saves
      Reliance, Tennessee

      View 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

      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Cabins
      Camper-submitted photo from Goforth Creek Campground E
      Camper-submitted photo from Goforth Creek Campground E
      Camper-submitted photo from Goforth Creek Campground E
      Camper-submitted photo from Goforth Creek Campground E
      Camper-submitted photo from Goforth Creek Campground E
      Camper-submitted photo from Goforth Creek Campground E
    Show More
    Showing results 1-10 of 60 campgrounds

    Recent Tent Reviews in Etowah

    1070 Reviews of 60 Etowah Campgrounds


    • Tia K.
      Camper-submitted photo from Morganton Point Campground
      Dec. 9, 2024

      Morganton Point Campground

      Spacious Waterfront Lot

      Camped on lot 14 which was quite spacious with easy access to the water. Tent was located away from the fire pit and picnic table and the restrooms were close by. Campground is small and quiet; hardly any light pollution at my nonelectric site. Firewood and ice are available for purchase on the grounds, so it is convenient when in a pinch!

    • M
      Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground
      Nov. 30, 2024

      Fort Mountain State Park Campground

      The park is fairly nice, I'd avoid site 24

      The park is nice with plenty of amenities. I had two complaints. We stayed creekside at site 24. The site had about a 5 inch difference shopping towards the road. I used rocker blocks maxed out (about 4 inches in height) and still was not level. Secondly with the site, there is a telephone pole that is a bit too close on the exit side. Singing out as far as I could, i barely missed sideswiping my camper when pulling out. The online pictures looked like it was a fairly private spot, but no. Just out of frame was the campground host site who happened to be flying a very offensive flag. I decided to avoid her. Lastly, gravel from most of the sites was washed out into the road. That could, and should have been cleaned up.

    • Kim L.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
      Nov. 26, 2024

      Cades Cove Campground

      Near popular Cades Cove scenic drive

      Approx 20 miles from main visitor center. The scenic drive increases congestion and traffic. Camp store is near campsites. Also a ranger station. Several hiking trails are accessible from campground. All driveways shaded, paved, and level. Very pleasant place. Only negative is the requirement to check in between 9-10:00 am the following day if one arrived later than check in time, which caused me to change hiking plans.

    • Randall C.
      Camper-submitted photo from Magical Mountain Resorts, The Enchanted Forest
      Nov. 16, 2024

      Magical Mountain Resorts, The Enchanted Forest

      Lives up to its name!

      This place is truly magical. So much effort has been put into themed cabins, unique art work, and detail. Kids and adults can spend time in a fantasy world of their choice. Kids can explore the magical grounds, play in the large creek, and get to know the resident goats, pigs, miniature horse, etc..

    • Michele D.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Lake Chatuge Dispersed
      Nov. 1, 2024

      Lake Chatuge Dispersed

      Wrong coordinates

      The coordinates take you to Nottley Dam. We had to drive 37 minutes farther to Lake Chatuge and hopefully we find some campground since it is very dark at the moment. We ended up having to spend over $200 for a hotel. I'm going to delete my acct as other friends have similar issues with Dyrt

    • S
      Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground
      Nov. 1, 2024

      Fort Mountain State Park Campground

      Beautiful Fall destination

      We tent camped on Spot 27. Nice back in RV spot with water and electric. Bathhouse is close by. Gray water dump is across the road. Originally we booked Spot 60. That’s a pull through with little room for a tent. No cell service but that’s okay as we disconnected for a while. You can get service at the top of the park. Clean bathrooms with hot showers. Trails are nicely blazed with colors that match trail map. Georgia apple farms are a short, 20-30 minutes away.

    • Meaghan G.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground
      Oct. 15, 2024

      Fort Mountain State Park Campground

      Backcountry site #4

      I had a wonderful time at backcountry site #4 this past Sunday - Monday. The hike to the site is downhill from the stone wall parking lot, so it was pretty easy to get to at only 1 mile. The site is private and pretty large. There were plenty of trees for hammocks and a few flat spots for small tents. A small creek flows through the site for easy water access (but I was told that it doesn’t flow all year).
      The best part of site #4 is that it’s about 0.2 miles from a beautiful west facing overlook where I enjoyed the sunset. I can’t recommend this site every .

    • Donny A.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Howland's Hidout
      Oct. 15, 2024

      Howland's Hidout

      Nice backyard camping

      Easy to find, close to Fall Creek Falls, Power available, quiet spot except for the coyotes in the woods. Confused Roosters will wake you up at various times. Ear plugs help with the Roosters and coyotes. It's not a campground so don't expect a shower house or bathrooms. I would stay there again. Owner is an exceptional host.

    • Michael T.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground
      Oct. 4, 2024

      Fort 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.

    • V
      Camper-submitted photo from Fooshee Pass Campground
      Sep. 13, 2024

      Fooshee Pass Campground

      Beautiful and well maintained!

      Ample space, gorgeous views of the lake, and super friendly staff. We stayed in space 19. It is sized for a smaller rig which was perfect for us. We got to watch fish jump and a crane fishing in the morning. Only caught small fish, but the kids had a blast swimming. The lake is shallow with a slow grade which was perfect for our young children. Everyone was friendly and respectful. The bathrooms were clean and it was a nice bonus to have a no-charge shower available for tent camping.

    • Angie B.
      Camper-submitted photo from Fontana Village Resort and Campground
      Sep. 10, 2024

      Fontana Village Resort and Campground

      Favorite Vacation Spot

      We have stayed at the Campground for 15 years!  Love Beth who helps with Reservations. I really like the fact it is a very small campground, sitting back a long way off the main road.  Sites are spread out. Shower house easy access from all sites. Very few, if any kids when we go.  Having all the amenities of Fontana Village Resort is icing on the cake. I've already made Reservations for 2025.

    • Mary D.
      Camper-submitted photo from Hornsby Hollow Campground
      Sep. 2, 2024

      Hornsby Hollow Campground

      Beautiful Sites!

      The campground was one of the most scenic I've been to. Some of the lakefront spots had their own access to the lake and plenty of trees. The camp host was amazing!

    • Sarah H.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Lake Conasauga Overflow Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest
      Aug. 24, 2024

      Lake Conasauga Overflow Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest

      Long drive down gravel roads

      It took us about 1.5 hours to reach the campground from where the pavement ended. It gets rough in places, but a sedan can do it if it's dry. Once you finally reach the campground, it is nice. Nestled way back in the woods. No power or water hookups. A couple of water hydrates throughout the campground. No alcohol permitted. It is a wildlife management area. There is a host in the campground. Beautiful scenery!

    • GThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
      Aug. 22, 2024

      Cades Cove Campground

      Awesome time

      If you're looking for peace and quiet, then this is the place to be. Had numerous sightings of wildlife even in the campground. Note... Do not forget to remove the drip pan on the Blackstone!!!! Doing so just erritates the bears.

    • rhett T.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wilmington KOA
      Aug. 17, 2024

      Wilmington KOA

      Nice but crowded

      It was a nice campground. But it is set up to be too crowded. Not my kind of camping. But they stated was friendly. The restrooms weren’t so bad considering how many kids was there. Couldn’t let the dogs walk free so that sucked.

    • m
      Camper-submitted photo from The Crosseyed Cricket
      Aug. 17, 2024

      The Crosseyed Cricket

      I like it

      I prefer playing cricket for physical exercise rather than virtual games like Nulls Brawl. It's a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, especially in beautiful locations like The Crosseyed Cricket Campground in Tennessee.

    • Kaleb B.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Backside Campground at Nantahala
      Aug. 9, 2024

      Backside Campground at Nantahala

      Backside is a fitting name

      This "campground" is two camp sites max being sold as like 6 "LARGE" sites. My brother and I were genuinely confused because it's essentially two group sites with individual sites being grouped together sharing a fireplace. The individual "sites" themselves are not level and barely big enough for a tent. My brother and I took one set of sites and the other person that showed up with small children took the other set of sites thankfully. I'm not trying to be crammed in with other people's small children while I'm camping. Was not expecting that to be a possibility. Any other people had shown up to the campground my brother and I would have just left. The porta potty is an absolute nightmare of spiders and insects. Don't bother opening it. No water supply

    • American E.
      Camper-submitted photo from Ridgeway
      Jul. 12, 2024

      Ridgeway

      Campground Closed

      The campground road access continues to be closed as of July 10, 2024.

    • Molly B.
      Camper-submitted photo from Parksville Lake RV Campground
      Jun. 30, 2024

      Parksville Lake RV Campground

      Beautiful and quiet

      This quiet little camp site is in the heart of the cherokee Forest. It’s so beautiful. Each site is a good distance away from the other and there is the constant sound of the creek flowing right next to it. The bathrooms are clean and right in the middle a perfect spot for a getaway


    Drive Time


    Guide to Etowah

    Tent camping near Etowah, Tennessee offers a variety of scenic locations for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature. With options ranging from serene riverside spots to more rugged backcountry experiences, there's something for everyone.

    Local Activities for Tent Campers

    • Enjoy fishing and hiking at the well-reviewed Lost Creek - Cherokee NF, where you can find great trails and access to the creek.
    • Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River, with convenient camping at Outdoor Adventure Rafting Campground that caters to adventure seekers.
    • Explore the beautiful trails and stunning views at the Big Frog Area, perfect for hiking and mountain biking.

    Amenities Tent Campers Appreciate

    • The Hiwassee River Area features spacious campsites with picnic tables and fire rings, ideal for family gatherings.
    • Campers at Smitty's Lodge Motorcycle Campground can enjoy clean restrooms, showers, and a communal kitchen area, making it a comfortable stay.
    • For a more rustic experience, Creekside Camp offers flat campsites next to a lovely creek, perfect for those seeking tranquility.

    Unique Features of Nearby Campgrounds

    • Sylco is known for its remote location and natural beauty, although it lacks modern amenities, making it a true escape into nature.
    • The Chilhowee Group Camp provides a mountain lake and beach, ideal for group camping and outdoor activities.
    • Experience the charm of the Tellico River Area, where you can camp by the river and enjoy the sounds of nature, though be mindful of nearby hunting activities during the season.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Etowah, TN?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Etowah, 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 Etowah, TN?

      TheDyrt.com has all 60 tent camping locations near Etowah, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.