Best Tent Camping near Reliance, TN
Looking for the best Reliance tent camping? Find the best tent camping sites near Reliance. Search nearby tent campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Tent Sites Near Reliance, TN (74)
1. Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
Reliance, Tennessee9 Reviews•18 Photos•274 SavesLost 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
2. Big Frog Area
Ocoee, Tennessee5 Reviews•5 Photos•14 SavesView 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
3. Hiwassee River Area
Turtletown, Tennessee3 Reviews•7 Photos•64 SavesView 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
4. Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground
Benton, Tennessee2 Reviews•7 Photos•23 SavesOverview
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
5. Starr Mountain Area
Delano, Tennessee2 Reviews•9 Photos•52 SavesView 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
6. Outdoor Adventure Rafting Campground
Benton, Tennessee2 Reviews•2 Photos•6 SavesOur 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
7. Smitty's Lodge Motorcycle Campground
Tellico Plains, Tennessee3 Reviews•2 Photos•1 Save- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Cabins
$20 / night
8. Ocoee River Area
Reliance, Tennessee1 Review•19 SavesView 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
9. Your Toccoa River Cove
Mineral Bluff, Georgia3 Reviews•28 Photos•115 SavesThis property offers the opportunity to pitch a tent on 12 acres of woodlands where you'll have the entire lot to yourself. The site is located a short walking distance from the Toccoa River which is famous for trout fishing. There are also two spring fed ponds ready for drinking. You'll also find firewood that is provided, an outhouse, a grill and a picnic table.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy during your stay, including biking, boating, fishing, paddling hiking and more. You'll find a fire pit perfect for campfire nights
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
$35 / night
10. Hickey Gap (Cohutta WMA)
Crandall, Georgia3 Reviews•19 Photos•123 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
Recent Tent Reviews in Reliance
1313 Reviews of 74 Reliance Campgrounds
Tia K.
Guide
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!
- MMike N.Guide
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.
Ranger
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.
Scout
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.Scout
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
- SScott S.
TravelerFort 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.
- Tia K.Guide
Doll Mountain Campground
Phenomenal View
Beautiful mountain landscape over a calm lake, very quiet and little to no light pollution at night. Lots of trees for shade in the lots and easy access to the lake.
Carolyn V.Traveler
Trackrock Campground & Cabins
Love love loved this campground!
Beautifully well maintained, clean grounds! Beautiful lake and stables and plenty of room ,yet campsites are tucked away to also give u a private feel as well! Pet friendly as well!
- TTravis W.Traveler
Salacoa Creek Park
Nice little campground, tent spots could be better
I slept really well last night here, and the camp host and guests were just great. Heated bathhouse with warm shower was definitely a highlight on a chilly morning!
Only downside in my mind was that I booked a tent site, only to find that the tent sites are down the hill from all the other sites, so if you book them you will have to haul your stuff down to the lake. It did sound like the night-time fishing would be awesome though!
Meaghan G.GuideFort 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 .
Michael T.GuideFort 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.
TIMOTHY O.Guide
Amicalola Falls State Park Camping
Fall trip
Outstanding park! Camp sites are spaced decently apart and well kept. Restrooms / showers are very clean. Welcome center has plenty of backpacking supplies as well.
Kevin S.TravelerLake Chatuge Dispersed
Nice tva campground
Good camp area quite during mid week stay
- sstaci B.Scout
Trackrock Campground & Cabins
We love this place!
We’ve stayed several times. The people are so kind. The only property is gorgeous and it’s always a great stay!
- VValerie M.Traveler
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.Traveler
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.
- wwilliam B.Scout
Toqua Beach Campground
Tennessee trip
Visiting in 2 weeks
- Mary D.Traveler
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.Guide
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!
- GGregory G.Traveler
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.Guide
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.
- mmichealScout
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.
- JJenTraveler
Coosawattee River Resort
Not open to public
I called and was told this is a membership ONLY campground resort! Please delete this resort
Kaleb B.Scout
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
- DDavid S.Scout
411 River Rest Campground
Beautiful and peaceful
We just finished our third RV trip at 411 River Rest CG—which was our seventh trip there over the past few years. The campground is pretty and extremely well maintained. The Coosawattee River is beautiful, as are the big trees that are a part of the facility. The exceptionally large and tall sycamores are particularly nice! The owners are friendly and they’re involved on a daily basis with the operations. We already have two trips scheduled for 411 RR CG for next year!
American E.Scout
Ridgeway
Campground Closed
The campground road access continues to be closed as of July 10, 2024.
- KKeith W.Scout
Kennedy Creek Resort and Campground
Best kept Georgia mountains secret
We found Kennedy Creek in September 2023 and have been back five times since then. The setting is absolutely beautiful with direct views of the mountains and sprawling grounds where the resort sits.
They offer everything from tent or RV camping and yurts, to beautiful cabins. We’ve tent camped once and brought our RV five times. If you’re camping, expect spacious campsites with amazing views. You won’t feel crowded in this place. If RVing, you can opt for a site with 30 amp electrical hookup and water (3 of these at present on a first come first basis and usually available). They do have showers so we didn’t come close to filling our gray/black tanks on our recent 5 day stay. What I like as an RVer is the open space and views. You won’t feel like you’re in a crowded RV park that’s for sure.
Their onsite tavern and restaurant is a great gathering place and is usually opened starting with Friday dinner through Sunday breakfast. The menu is top notch with special dishes that change regularly. John is the chef and he puts out some of the best food you’ll find in these beautiful mountains!
The resort also has a 2000’ x 60’ grass runway (GA87) which is absolutely gorgeous. In my opinion this should be a bucket list destination for all pilots that can manage to get in to 2000’ fields. The owner has a beautiful Just Superstol XL bush plane and a Highlander, and he can usually be found flying most Friday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings. You might even get invited to go flying :-)
The staff is super friendly and will take great care of you during your stay. It won’t take long for you to realize that they absolutely care about you and your experience. They’ll go out of their way to make sure you enjoy their little slice of paradise.
This probably sounds like a paid advertisement but I’m just a happy camper that hopes this place experiences the success it deserves. I’ve been to Ellijay, Helen, Blairsville, Dahlonega, and a lot of other well known mountain spots, and this place is my favorite by far.
Guide to Reliance
Nestled in the scenic beauty of Tennessee, Reliance offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure and tranquility.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities
- Lost Creek - Cherokee NF features picnic tables and fire pits at each site, providing a comfortable setup for your camping experience.
- Hiwassee River Area offers spacious campsites with river views, along with access to drinking water and hot showers for a more convenient stay.
- Smitty's Lodge Motorcycle Campground includes clean restrooms, showers, and communal areas with kitchen amenities, making it a great choice for those seeking comfort while camping.
Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $20
- Goforth Creek Campground E offers free camping along a creek, perfect for those looking to enjoy nature without breaking the bank.
- Goforth Creek Campground F is another free option, providing a small site ideal for hammock camping and a peaceful retreat.
- Chilhowee National Forest Chilhowee Campground has a nominal fee for reservable sites, ensuring a well-maintained environment for your camping adventure.
Tent campers should check out the outdoor activities
- Ocoee River Area is perfect for thrill-seekers, offering exciting whitewater rafting opportunities right at your doorstep.
- Big Frog Area provides stunning views and numerous hiking trails, making it a great spot for those who love to explore the outdoors.
- Your Toccoa River Cove features a serene environment with access to hiking and fishing, ideal for families looking to enjoy a peaceful getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Reliance, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Reliance, 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 Reliance, TN?
TheDyrt.com has all 74 tent camping locations near Reliance, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.