Tent camping near Tallassee, Tennessee offers access to the Cherokee National Forest and Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest areas. The region sits at elevations between 800-5,000 feet with moderate summers averaging 75-85°F and cooler nights around 55-65°F. Water plays a central role in the camping experience, with many sites positioned along creeks that provide natural swimming holes during summer months.
What to do
Creek exploration: Double Camp/Citico Creek provides numerous opportunities for creek activities. "Clear, clean water abounds here. TWRA stocks plenty of trout Feb-early Sept," notes Todd R., who recommends leaving phones at home since "you won't have a signal, broadcast radio barely makes it in."
Fishing opportunities: At Snowbird Camping, creeks are stocked with trout throughout the season. "Gorgeous creek with a bunch of trout. A lot of campsites are really close to the creek for easy fishing," explains Savannah Cade.
Forest hiking: Take a short drive to the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, accessible from Rattler Ford Campground. The forest contains "some of the largest hardwood trees in the South East," making it what Bernie C. calls "one of the East Coast's hidden gems of majestic forests."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Snowbird Camping, the spacious layout provides solitude. "Each site is far enough from the next to give you a feeling of being alone," writes William S., adding that sites include "a fire pit (with swing-out cooking grill), a picnic table, and a metal post with two hooks to hang gear on."
Creekside camping: Campers consistently mention the appeal of creek access. "Family oriented, clear & cold waters, beautiful views, peaceful thoughts, and convenient campsites," says Tonya R. about Double Camp/Citico Creek, highlighting its appeal for gatherings.
Lake views: For those preferring lake camping over creeks, Santeetlah Lake Primitive offers "superb views of the clear lake water," according to Andy K., who notes that "some sites are high above the lake so hard for direct water access. Some are at water level."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most camping areas have limited or no connectivity. Todd R. advises to "leave your phone at home, you won't have a signal" at Citico Creek. Similarly, Andy K. reports that at Santeetlah Lake, "cell service for Verizon is useable in a few spots but mostly there is no cell signal."
Site features vary widely: Mountain Creek Rest offers more amenities than typical primitive sites. "The campsite itself is so beautiful and well maintained... There is a tent platform, a picnic table, and a charcoal grill (with grilling utensils included!)," reports Taylor H.
Water access considerations: Sites with water access may require planning. Taylor H. notes about Mountain Creek Rest, "The water is so clear and there are lots of spots to play in the little waterfalls and lounge in the water. It was too cold to swim while we were there."
Tips for camping with families
Water play areas: Rattler Ford Campground offers family-friendly water features. Bernie C. mentions they have "a stream that will give hours of splashing and exploring for the whole family!"
Recreational facilities: Some campgrounds offer additional activities beyond water play. Bernie C. notes that Rattler Ford has "a volleyball net (with ball)" alongside stream access, making it suitable for families wanting both water and land activities.
Site selection for convenience: At Mountain Creek Rest, Taylor H. appreciated that "parking was right next to the tent platform, picnic table, and charcoal grill," noting "we were able to leave most everything in our car as it was so close by, which was very convenient."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most primitive sites in the area have restrictions for larger vehicles. At Simple Life Mountain Retreat & Campground, Molly A. notes, "This well maintained campground is on a steep incline with leveled out parking spaces," which affects vehicle positioning.
Water and electric access: Simple Life offers some powered sites. "Some sites have electric, there's plenty of water spigots and the showers are nice and hot," reports Molly A., making it suitable for those needing hookups.
Alternative options: For RVers preferring dispersed options, Andy K. suggests considering Santeetlah Lake sites but cautions about solar dependency: "Some sites are ok for solar panels but others are very shady so choose your location wisely."