Indian Boundary Recreation Area provides campsites with electrical hookups and some of the most accessible hiking in the Cherokee National Forest. Located 16 miles from Tellico Plains along the Cherohala Skyway at an elevation of 1,800 feet, this area features a 3.5-mile trail circling the lake. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter bringing occasional snow at higher elevations.
What to do
Lake activities: swimming and paddling: Indian Boundary offers a sandy beach area and lake access for various water activities. "My family goes to Indian Boundary every year and we have pretty much my whole life. There's a lake with a sandy area, and a beautiful mountain range to enjoy. It's my favorite camping spot!" reports Alison B. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available at the lake during summer months.
Fish at multiple locations: Streams and lakes throughout the area provide trout and bass fishing opportunities. Tellico River is particularly known for its trout populations. "There is a nice nature trail that loops around the park. The park also offers a boat launch for river access," notes Gregg G. about Gee Creek Campground.
Scenic drives: The Cherohala Skyway stretches 43 miles from Tellico Plains to Robbinsville, North Carolina, with elevations reaching 5,400 feet. "Sites are big and level. Power hook ups if you need them and plenty of shade. The 3.5 mile trail around the lake is a good little walk for the dogs. Highly recommend this campground," shares Jim M. about how Indian Boundary serves as a convenient base for exploring the Skyway.
What campers like
Free firewood at select campgrounds: Cherohala Mountain Trails Campground offers complimentary firewood to guests, saving campers the expense of purchasing it elsewhere. "The campground's hosts provide free firewood and occasional complimentary meals depending on the day of the week," according to camper reviews.
Clean bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies by campground but receives consistently positive reviews at several locations. "Very nice campsites, adequate size. Nice area with picnic tables and beach area. Best thing to us was the hiking trail that we walked with fresh blueberry bushes on our side," shares Anne Marie P. about her experience at Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites at Cherokee National Forest campgrounds. "Campsites seem close but are pretty private. Lush green sites. Amenities as described, pretty basic (which is how I like it)," notes Amber A. about Indian Boundary.
What you should know
Site selection varies by vehicle type: Not all campgrounds can accommodate larger RVs. "Sites on the North side of loop A are fairly uneven and would require a significant amount of leveling blocks if using a camper," warns Gregg G. about Gee Creek Campground.
Varying shower availability: Not all campgrounds offer shower facilities. "There is only one dump station and it's on the other side of the campground. From the B loop, you have to traverse about a 120 degree switchback to get to it," notes Mike N. about Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Bear awareness is essential: Cades Cove Campground and surrounding areas have active black bear populations. "Obey the rules about bears! We met people who saw one recently. Really lovely site within a pretty wild part of TN," advises Amber A.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds available at select locations: Families with children can take advantage of designated playground areas at certain campgrounds. "The campground has everything you need. The family-friendly environment includes a playground for children," according to visitor reports.
Biking opportunities: Sourwood Campground offers access to riverside terrain suitable for casual biking. "The closeness to the river is the main attraction here. It's ever-present sounds make it easy to forget everything," shares Dan R. Cades Cove also has designated biking days when the loop road is closed to vehicles.
Wildlife viewing for children: Multiple areas provide opportunities to spot wildlife safely. "This is a great campground, but can get a little busy. That doesn't make it good or bad, but you need to know what to plan for. If you want nature, love community, and want someone for your kids to play with, this is perfect," suggests DrDavid P.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Several campgrounds in the area have sites requiring significant leveling for RVs. "Because sites are loose gravel, leveling can be a challenge is your rig does not auto level," notes Jeremy B. about Top of the World RV.
Limited dump stations: Plan your waste management accordingly. "They don't have sewer hookup, they come by Mondays and Thursdays to dump your tanks for you with a truck, that's great... but... you have to really watch your water usage so you don't overfill your tanks as you're waiting for a dump day," advises Ginger V.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Tellico Plains: Many campgrounds in the Cherokee National Forest welcome pets but have specific rules. "Great camping area, great for family camping. Hiking trail around lake fun to kayak and fish on also has a swimming area and large picnic area that's covered," explains Kaitlyn about Indian Boundary, one of several pet-friendly destinations in the area.
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