The Cherokee National Forest and adjacent areas near Tellico Plains offer free camping across dense forest regions at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,500 feet. These dispersed sites provide primitive camping with varying seasonal conditions, including humid summers with temperatures averaging 80-90°F and cooler fall periods with 50-70°F days. Winter camping requires preparation for occasional snow and nighttime temperatures that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Many dispersed sites provide direct creek and lake access. At Lost Creek - Cherokee NF, the creek offers decent fishing spots. As one camper noted, "The creek can be used for shallow water wading or fishing."
Hiking nearby trails: The Benton McKaye trail runs directly beside Lost Creek campground, offering immediate hiking access. A visitor mentioned that the area has "Many places to explore on bike or hiking. Super remote area."
Swimming in natural pools: Several creek-side locations have swimming areas with clear water. At Lake Santeetlah Dispersed, one camper reported, "My dog absolutely loved how much space she had to roam around and how clear the water was excellent for swimming."
Wildlife observation: The Cherokee National Forest provides opportunities to spot native wildlife. Bring binoculars for birdwatching. One visitor to the area noted, "We had lots of birds and butterflies around camp. Keep your eyes out for the Tufted Titmouse a cute little grey bird resembling a Cardinal."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed camping areas offer significant separation between campsites. At Citico Creek Area, a camper observed, "These campsites are extremely spread out, allowing for private camping. No hookups, but a majority of the 14 sites are on the creek itself."
Water access: Sites positioned along creeks and lakes are particularly popular. At Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites, a camper described it as having "9 sites here down a decent gravel road... Site 9 had a little trail down to the lake, 2 fire pits and a picnic table. Very secluded from everything and a great view of the water."
Free established amenities: Many free sites include basic improvements. A visitor to Sourwood Campground noted, "All of the sites had solid packed ground so it would not be hard to level whatever rig you use. Drive right up to the camp site better yet use a truck bed camper or tent."
Seasonal quietness: Visitor traffic varies significantly by season. During off-peak times, campers often have their pick of sites. A winter visitor reported, "We got there late after 1pm. I was afraid that we were out of luck. But we found a nice spot right on the water."
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Quality and cleanliness can differ significantly between sites and seasons. A camper at Calderwood Lake Primitive campground advised, "If you are willing to bring everything with you, pack everything out, and paddle multiple miles on a nonmotorized finger lake, this is this place for you!"
Limited facilities: Most sites lack potable water and proper toilets. One camper noted, "The restroom, although primitive (no water—bring along some hand sanitizer), is incredibly clean."
Weather impacts: Access roads can become challenging after rain or snow. A visitor explained, "I could see them being bad after a heavy storm. Gravel 7 miles to here."
Variable cell service: Different carriers perform differently across the area. A camper reported, "AT&T works just fine!" while others have mentioned no service with various carriers.
Local users: Some sites attract regular local campers. A visitor observed, "Be aware that many of the sites are free, which draws some of East Tennessee's most, ahem, interesting inhabitants to the area!"
Tips for camping with families
Select spots with creek access: Areas with shallow water features work well for children. At a site by the creek, a camper reported, "This campground is great for being right next to great day hikes and easy access to Citico Creek, which was just across the gravel road from our site."
Look for sites with flat terrain: Some dispersed sites feature more level ground than others. At Panther Top Dispersed Site, a camper noted, "My spot had a picnic table and two tent pads, a pole for your lantern and was just feet from the lake."
Plan for limited facilities: Pack all necessary supplies including drinking water. A visitor advised, "No bathrooms or running water available. I arrived right before sunset on a week day and found it unoccupied."
Arrive early for best sites: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer and weekends. One camper recommended, "Find a spot early. Bathrooms are relatively clean nice fishing close by."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility varies: Only certain dispersed sites accommodate larger vehicles. A camper noted, "It would absolutely NOT be a good location for a class A motorhome but maybe some of the smaller class C's could get settled in there I saw a small camper trailer sitting comfortable."
Turn-around space limitations: Consider whether you can safely navigate forest roads. A visitor warned, "I would not like to try to get a larger camper or 5th wheel in there, way too tight to turn around."
Level parking challenges: Bring leveling blocks as most sites aren't perfectly flat. One RVer shared, "My overland rig fit in the small parking area fine, but I had to find a few rocks to level my truck so the rooftop tent was level."
Road condition preparation: Forest service roads require caution with larger vehicles. A visitor advised, "Drive carefully (lots of big potholes and blind curves)!"
