Starr Mountain Area

Backpackers and hammock campers will find a challenging hike-in experience at Starr Mountain Area, accessed through Cherokee National Forest. The route from Gee Creek Road covers roughly half a mile but lacks trail markings, requiring campers to follow an unmarked uphill path through forested terrain. Several natural springs along the route can create muddy conditions depending on recent rainfall.

The steep ascent demands physical preparation and frequent rest stops. Hammock camping works well given the forested setting, though tent site options remain limited on the mountainous terrain. Weather conditions can change unexpectedly at elevation. For a less demanding experience, Spring Creek Dispersed Camping provides easier access nearby.

Suggest an Edit

RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsStarr Mountain Area is located in Tennessee near Delano

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

35.28760031 N
84.465682 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol

Drive Time


2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Starr Mountain Area

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

100%
0%
0%
0%
0%

5.0

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Nov. 11, 2021

WARNING: DIFFICULT HIKE

Very intense hike up the mountain but the views are worth it! Hammock camping is ideal here, unsure of tent camping possibilities. Come prepared to hike hard and to experience unexpected weather if it occurs

Month of VisitMarch
Reviewed Sep. 8, 2020

Heaven on earth

This place is amazing. The trail isn’t really a trail but it’s so worth it. if you enter through gee creek rd it’s only about half a mile to the top. It is an off beat path and there are no markings. The key is to keep going up. it’s rough and the path is off road for sure. It is so worth it. Take it easy and take breaks. Also there are several natural springs as you make your way up so depending on rain it can get muddy. Def one of my favorite hikes in Tennessee.

  • Review photo of Starr Mountain Area by Gabriela M., September 8, 2020
  • Review photo of Starr Mountain Area by Gabriela M., September 8, 2020
  • Review photo of Starr Mountain Area by Gabriela M., September 8, 2020
  • (9) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make reservations at Unknown Campground?

No formal reservation system exists for Starr Mountain Area. This is a dispersed backcountry camping location with no designated sites or reservation process. Access is first-come, first-served. The area can be reached via Gee Creek Road, which leads to a trail approximately half a mile to the summit. For the most current information about access and any potential permit requirements, contact the Cherokee National Forest office that manages this area.

What amenities are available at Unknown Campground?

Starr Mountain Area is a primitive backcountry camping destination with no developed amenities. The area is best suited for hammock camping due to the terrain. There are no established facilities such as restrooms, potable water, picnic tables, or fire rings. Visitors should come fully prepared with all necessary camping supplies and equipment, including water, as this is a true wilderness experience that requires self-sufficiency.

What is the cost to camp at Unknown Campground?

Starr Mountain Area appears to be a free dispersed camping location within the Cherokee National Forest. As with many primitive backcountry areas in national forests, there is typically no fee for camping. However, always check with the Cherokee National Forest district office before your trip to confirm current fee policies and any regulations regarding backcountry camping in this specific area.