Dispersed camping in the Cherokee National Forest near Reliance, Tennessee offers several free primitive camping sites situated between 1,200-2,000 feet elevation. The region receives significant annual rainfall (around 55 inches), creating numerous creeks and streams that flow year-round through camping areas. Most sites become accessible from March through November, with winter camping possible but requiring additional preparation for potentially freezing temperatures and muddy conditions.
What to do
Creek exploration: Multiple camping areas provide direct creek access for wading and swimming. At Goforth Creek Campground A, campers can follow the creek upstream. "The hike up the creek is really beautiful and a much less traveled trail than others in the area. I highly suggest going all the way to the end and taking a little dip. The water feels wonderful on a hot summer day," notes camper Asher K.
Backcountry hiking: The Cohutta Wilderness area offers challenging terrain for experienced hikers. At Jack's River Falls Trail, "This is a tough trail but good for teens looking to challenge themselves in the back country. The views are amazing with rock falls," according to Anna R.
Off-road adventures: Forest Service roads provide access to remote camping but require appropriate vehicles. "It takes about 35 minutes to go 4 miles. Ground clearance and off road tires needed," explains Liz M. about reaching Rough Creek Dispersed camping.
What campers like
Privacy and solitude: Many sites offer isolation from crowds and noise. At Lost Creek Campground, campers appreciate the remoteness. "Your classic primitive campground. No generators, water, or porta potties. How camping in the forest should be!" says Tyler J.
Creek sounds: The sound of running water creates natural white noise at many sites. At Jack's River Falls, camper Renee B. suggests you can "Fall asleep to the rushing waters of Jack's River!" Some campers prefer quieter options, as noted at Goforth Creek Campground B: "This is also a good option for anyone who has trouble sleeping with loud water sounds since this site is much quieter than some of the others."
Free accommodations: No fees at most sites make this area popular for budget camping. Scott E. mentions about Lost Creek: "This little site was a great get away... We chose a spot next to the creek. Was clear and flowing due to a lot of rain the few days before we arrived. Sites had concrete picnic tables and a pad."
What you should know
Remote location realities: Most sites have no amenities and limited or no cell service. Chris D. notes about Lost Creek: "Super remote area, ride were in decent shape, I could see them being bad after a heavy storm. Gravel 7 miles to here." Plan for self-sufficiency with all supplies.
Wildlife precautions: Bears frequent the area, requiring proper food storage. At Big Creek Primitive Camping Area, "This is bear country, so you need to practice bear safety with your food and trash. We did not see any bears in camp, but did spot one just down the road the morning we were leaving," warns Steve V.
Road conditions: Access requires driving on unpaved forest roads that deteriorate with weather. Multiple reviewers mention the need for high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain when roads become muddy and rutted.
Seasonal popularity: Weekends during summer months draw larger crowds. "Nice but super crowded on the weekend," observes J A. about Lost Creek Campground during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose established sites with creek access for built-in entertainment. Rayley P. shares about Lost Creek: "Each campsite has a concrete table, fire pit, and tent platform. Some have direct access to the creek. Great hikes around and good place to fish and hunt."
Campsite size consideration: Some backcountry sites accommodate large groups well. At Creekside Camp, "Flat campsites next to a very nice creek," notes Bob P., though he points out there are "No picnic tables or pit toilets."
Restroom options: Most dispersed sites lack toilets, so prepare accordingly. The few exceptions include Lost Creek, where "The restroom, although primitive (no water—bring along some hand sanitizer), is incredibly clean," according to a camper.
Tips for RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate only small trailers or truck campers. Big Creek Primitive Camping Area can fit "a small teardrop trailer" according to Steve V., who adds that some sites can "hold multiple vehicles and set ups."
Resource management: No dump stations, trash service or water hookups exist in the area. Steve V. emphasizes: "This is primitive camping, so there are no facilities (no bathhouse, no power, no dump station, no trash, etc). It's all pack it in, pack it out."
Road navigation: Forest Service roads present challenges for trailers. "This section of FS 221 shares driving trails such as the Big Frog Loop, the Georgia Traverse, and the Trans America Trail (TAT), so there could be lots of traffic with overlanders, adventure bikers, and off-roaders," notes a camper about access to Big Creek.
