Tent campsites near Reliance, Tennessee sit within Cherokee National Forest, an area characterized by heavily forested mountain terrain ranging from 1,000 to over 3,000 feet in elevation. These primitive and established camping areas experience significant temperature variations, with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter lows sometimes dropping into the 20s. Most campsites feature creekside locations, making water crossing skills essential during spring runoff season.
What to do
Creek exploration: At Goforth Creek Campground F, campers can access multiple water features. "This is a very small site alongside the trail that you pass closer to the start of the hike. It has an established firepit and a cleared area for a tent but is probably best suited for hammock camping," notes reviewer Asher K.
Mountain biking: The remote forest roads near Lost Creek - Cherokee NF provide challenging terrain for cyclists. "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. Gravel 7 miles to here," shares Chris D.
Tubing: Lower Ocoee River access makes Outdoor Adventure Rafting Campground popular for water activities. "This is a great spot if you either want to go rafting for a weekend or spend the day tubing the lower Ocoee and have a campground all ready for you," says Tyler J.
What campers like
Remote location: Campers value the isolation at Big Frog Area camping sites. "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," writes Heidi T., who adds a practical warning: "It is however in the middle of nowhere and there are no bathrooms or facilities or running water."
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate cost-free primitive tent sites. "It's a free campsite so it's first come first serve and everyone we've met so far there have been the friendiest of people," notes Rayley P. about Lost Creek Campground.
No cell service: Many campers value the digital disconnection. "No cell service and its first come first served for a spot," writes Charles H. about his stay at Lost Creek, highlighting the natural soundscape: "all you hear is the river at night."
What you should know
Bathroom limitations: Most dispersed camping areas have minimal or no facilities. At Creekside Camp, reviewer Bob P. notes: "No picnic tables or pit toilets. Flat campsites next to a very nice creek."
Access challenges: Many campsites require difficult travel. "This campground is in the middle of nowhere (7 miles down a gravel forest road)," explains Gregg G. about Lost Creek Campground, adding that "there is no potable water available from a spicket and no Verizon cell reception."
Weather considerations: Mountain conditions change rapidly. "Watch out for bears. It is however in the middle of nowhere and there are no bathrooms or facilities or running water so it's not a good place to have like small small children," cautions Heidi T. about Big Frog Area.
Tips for camping with families
Easier locations first: Choose established sites with some amenities for younger children. "The lake is beautiful and quiet. The bathrooms could be a little cleaner, and there was no soap in either bathroom during our stay," notes Ken O. about Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground.
Plan for no services: Pack everything you need, especially water. "We apparently went during hunting season. Had to have been a dog sport. Too many dogs running around and barking throughout the night. Other than that we enjoyed our stay," says Scott E. about his Lost Creek experience.
Consider river camping: Sites with water access provide built-in entertainment. "Most campsites have river view or stream view. One large circle, mostly tent camping. No electric hookup. Water spigots throughout the campground but not directly at each site," explains Katrin S. about her stay at Hiwassee River Area.
Tips for RVers
Size limitations: Most forest roads can't accommodate large rigs. "No big-rig friendly" is listed for nearly all campgrounds in the region.
Consider alternative spots: While most primitive sites don't accommodate RVs, Starr Mountain Area lists RV camping as an option, though access is difficult. "Very intense hike up the mountain but the views are worth it! Hammock camping is ideal here, unsure of tent camping possibilities," notes Sean7.
Water and dumping: No hookups exist at most sites. "The campground offers concrete picnic tables, lantern post, a pit toilet and bear safe trash receptacles. There is no potable water available from a spicket and no Verizon cell reception," explains Gregg G. about the facilities at Lost Creek.
