Established Camping
Dennis Cove Campground
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
This location is closed until further notice due to significant impacts from Hurricane Helene. Please continue to monitor this locations facility page on Recreation.gov for status updates or visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/cherokee for details. Keep in mind, local personnel may be attending to this urgent situation and not available to provide updates immediately.
Dennis Cove Campground, near Unicoi, Tennessee, is a cozy spot tucked away in the Cherokee National Forest, perfect for those who want a peaceful escape. With its well-set-up sites, each equipped with a fire ring, it’s an ideal place to unwind and enjoy some quality time around the campfire.
This campground is a hit with visitors for its proximity to stunning hiking trails, including easy access to the Appalachian Trail and nearby waterfalls. Campers have noted the serene atmosphere, with one reviewer mentioning, “The campground is in a nice secluded area that can be very silent and relaxing.”
While the facilities are basic, with clean restrooms and no showers, the running water and picnic tables make it comfortable enough for a laid-back camping experience. Families appreciate the clean environment and the chance for kids to explore the outdoors, as one camper shared, “Kids can find something to do or play anywhere and being outdoors is wonderful.”
If you’re looking for a quiet retreat with beautiful scenery and plenty of hiking opportunities, Dennis Cove Campground is a solid choice. Just be prepared for some tight mountain roads if you're bringing a larger trailer.
Description
National Forest
Cherokee National Forest
Overview
DENNIS COVE CAMPGROUND IS CURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO IMPENDING WEATHER FROM HELENE. CLOSURE IS ANTICIPATED THRU MONDAY, SEPT 30, BUT COULD BE LATER DEPENDING ON DAMAGE ASSESSMENT. Dennis Cove Campground is a secluded campground along Laurel Fork Creek at an elevation of 2,650 feet in Carter County. This remote developed campground is popular with those seeking a rustic experience. The altitude, creek side location and lush forest surroundings make Dennis Cove particularly desirable during hot summer months. With 15 campsites, Dennis Cove is a great option for family camping.
Recreation
Along with camping, Laurel Fork Creek is stocked with rainbow trout below the campground. Above the campground, the creek and its tributaries are managed as wild trout streams for brown, rainbow and brook trout. Laurel Fork Trail (#39) follows the creek upstream for 8.0 miles with twenty-six stream crossings. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is accessed one mile west of the campground along Dennis Cove Rd, or at the top of the nearby Coon Den Falls Trail (#37).
Natural Features
Dennis Cove Campground is located along the beautiful Laurel Fork Creek nestled in the mountains of the Southern Appalachians.
Nearby Attractions
The trailhead for Coon Den Falls Trail (#37) is next to Dennis Cove Campground, and the trailhead for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (#1) is approximately one mile west of the campground on Dennis Cove Rd. Watauga Lake is approximately 25 minutes away.
Location
Dennis Cove Campground is located in Tennessee
Directions
Take US 321/TN 67 East out of Hampton, TN. Turn right onto Dennis Cove Road and drive approximately 5 miles. Dennis Cove Road is steep with hairpin turns, so plan to drive slowly.
Address
4400 Unicoi Drive
Unicoi, TN 37692
Coordinates
36.2572222 N
82.1108333 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Stay Connected
- WiFiGood
- VerizonFair
- AT&TGood
- T-MobileFair
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
