Families with children often gravitate toward this Forest Service picnic area within Cherokee National Forest, where creek access provides hands-on water play opportunities. The Laurels functions primarily as a day-use facility with pavilions, restrooms, and water access rather than designated camping spots. One reviewer notes that actual overnight camping occurs at nearby Forest Service campgrounds like Little Oak and Rock Creek.
The site works well for picnicking and wading activities, though campers seeking overnight stays should plan accordingly. For additional camping options in the region, consider campgrounds just outside Milligan College or Blackberry Blossom Farm & Campground located a few miles south.
Description
Overview
The Laurels Picnic Area Pavilions is open for the 2024 season. The Laurels has been a popular area since the early days in East Tennessee. It was a common evening stopover for farmers from North Carolina taking produce to markets in Johnson City. The site is named for the native Rhododendron that thrives in the area, locally called "laurel." The Civilian Conservation Corps helped construct the current facilities in the early 1930's. Today, it is a popular day-use area, providing a nice shady place for family picnics and group gatherings.____
Recreation
The Laurels has two pavilions, each with picnic tables and grills. An old foot path meanders through the nearby woods.
Facilities
The Laurels includes two picnic pavilions, numerous tables, grills, a bear-proof dumpster, and connected by foot paths. There is a vault toilet on site. There is no potable water.
Natural Features
Honeycomb Creek flows through the picnic area and is enjoyed by kids of all ages on warm summer days.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundThe Laurels Picnic Area Pavilions is located in Tennessee
Directions
The Laurels is located on TN Hwy 361 near Sciota Road in Carter County. From Johnson City, take I-26 E to Okalona exit. Turn left, drive under I-26 to TN 359. Turn right onto TN 359. Travel 1.4 miles, then turn right onto TN 361 for 3.7 miles to The Laurels.__
Coordinates
36.24885556 N
82.26833333 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/18/26- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/18/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Drinking Water
- Pets
Drive Time
- 16 min from Johnson City, TN
- 33 min from Kingsport, TN
- 1 hr 4 min from Asheville, NC
- 1 hr 8 min from Morristown, TN
