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DENNIS COVE CAMPGROUND
DevelopedUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~6h 13m
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Overview 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 fo

COSBY GROUP CAMP
DevelopedNational Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
~4h 30m
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Overview Tucked in the mountains under a canopy of cool shade beside Cosby Creek. This group campground creates a peaceful and secluded environment for visitors, offering the best that the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has to offer. Recreation Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from Cosby Campground, including the Appalachian Trail, just three miles away via the Lower Gap Trail. Hiking is not the only reason for visiting t

APPALACHIAN CLUBHOUSE
DevelopedNational Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
~4h 9m
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Overview The Appalachian Clubhouse is a historic building constructed in 1934 in the Elkmont Historic District. The structure has been rehabilitated by the National Park Service to closely resemble its 1930's appearance, with the addition of few modern amenities such as electricity and running water. The building was originally used a gathering spot by lessees and guests of the Appalachian Club whose members, mostly from Knoxville, built rustic cabins nearby to serve as weekend or summer retreats in the years before the Park was created. Today the 3,000 square foot clubhouse provides an excell

ANTHONY CREEK HORSE CAMP
DevelopedNational Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
~4h 0m
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Overview Anthony Creek Horse Camp is located near the gently rolling waters of Anthony Creek. Whether blanketed in bright wildflowers in the spring or vivid colors in the fall, the scenery at Anthony Creek never disappoints. You MUST have a HORSE to camp in Anthony Creek Horse Camp! Recreation With access to several of the Smokies' popular horseback riding trails, equestrians will never be bored. Anthony Creek Trail intersects the campground and takes travelers up Bote Mountain, a 3,000 foot altitude gain. Although the trek is fairly strenuous, the trail is one of the most popular in the area

WARTRACE CK REC AREA
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — Cordell Hull Lake
~6h 17m
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Overview Wartrace Creek Recreation Area is located on Cordell Hull Lake on the Cumberland River System, just nine miles from Gainesboro, TN. The lake itself was named after one of America's outstanding statesmen and one of Tennessee's finest volunteers. Hull was born in a log cabin in the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains. Families and friends enjoy coming to the lake for boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, hunting and relaxing in the outdoors. Click here for a virtual tour of the Cordell Hull Lake facilities. Recreation The 12,000-acre lake stretches 72 miles upstream and has 381 miles of

Rock Creek Campground (TN)
DevelopedNational Park Service — Obed Wild & Scenic River
~5h 4m
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Overview Rock Creek Campground is located near the Emory River in the Obed Wild and Scenic River. Recreation Whitewater paddling is available seasonally in the Obed WSR. Rock climbing is another challenging activity, as is boulder climbing. The Obed WSR sports several unique trails for hikers, most notably the Point Trail and a portion of the Cumberland Trail. Those who like to fish will enjoy the Obed WSR, as a variety of bass, bluegill, catfish and other fish populate the river. Birdwatching is also a fun activity, particularly during the migratory seasons. Facilities Rock Creek Campground h

FLOATING MILL PARK
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — Center Hill Lake
~5h 42m
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Overview Floating Mill Park is located on the shores of the scenic Center Hill Lake on central Tennessee's Highland Rim. The lake stretches 64 miles up the Caney Fork River, where visitors come to enjoy boating, fishing and water sports. The 415 miles of forested shoreline provide excellent hiking, hunting and camping opportunities. 2025 Events: The annual Halloween event will be held Saturday, October 25, 2025. Recreation Boating, waterskiing, canoeing and fishing are popular activities on the water. Anglers will find bream, walleye, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish and white bass. Below the

CADES COVE GROUP
DevelopedNational Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
~4h 0m
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Overview Over 2 million visitors annually come to enjoy the scenic beauty of Cades Cove and its many historic structures, popular biking and hiking trails and scenic waterfalls and streams. Tucked in the mountains under a lush, shaded canopy, this group campground offers the best that the Great Smoky Mountains National park has to offer. Recreation The Great Smoky Mountains are a hikers paradise and visitors to Cades Cove Campground love the 5-mile roundtrip hike to Abram Falls. From Cades Cove Loop Road, turnoff at the sign and follow the directions to the trailhead. Although Abrams Falls is

TWIN CREEKS PICNIC PAVILION
DevelopedNational Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
~4h 15m
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Yes
Overview Twin Creeks Picnic Pavilion is the largest in the park, surrounded by the scenic forest of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Located in a secluded and private section of the Smokies, this pavilion is a popular place for group trips. Recreation Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of which accessible near the picnic area. Hiking is not the only reason for visiting the Smokies: Fishing, picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are also popular a

RAGLAND BOTTOM
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — Center Hill Lake
~5h 33m
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Overview Ragland Bottom Campground is located on the shores of the scenic Center Hill Lake on central Tennessee's Highland Rim. The lake stretches 64 miles up the Caney Fork River, where visitors come to enjoy boating, fishing and water sports. The 415 miles of forested shoreline provide excellent hiking, hunting and camping opportunities. 2025 Events: The annual Halloween event will be held Saturday, October 25, 2025. Recreation Boating, waterskiing, canoeing and fishing are popular activities on the water. Anglers will find bream, walleye, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish and white bass. Be

SALT LICK CREEK
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — Cordell Hull Lake
~6h 14m
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Overview Salt Lick Creek Campground is located on Cordell Hull Lake on the Cumberland River System, just 10 miles from Gainesboro, TN. The lake itself was named after one of America's outstanding statesmen and one of Tennessee's finest volunteers. Hull was born in a log cabin in the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains. Families and friends enjoy coming to the lake for boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, hunting, and relaxing in the outdoors.Click here for a virtual tour of the Cordell Hull Lake facilities. Recreation The 12,000-acre lake stretches 72 miles upstream and has 381 miles of shore

BIG CREEK CAMPGROUND (GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK)
DevelopedNational Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
~4h 33m
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Overview Big Creek Campground is located in a remote portion of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Backcountry camping in a front country setting. There are flushing toilets and potable water. This is a tent only campground with a short walk from the parking area. The beautiful flowing waters of Big Creek parallel the campground offering the visitor a pleasant soundscape and peaceful beauty. Big Creek is an oasis for hiking, swimming, wildlife, fishing, and relaxation. Recreation Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from

CAGES BEND
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — Old Hickory Lake
~6h 52m
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Overview Cages Bend Campground is located on the shores of Old Hickory Lake, offering campers the opportunity to enjoy activities with a beautiful scenic backdrop. Water recreation is the major attraction for lake-goers, but with white-tailed deer, migratory song birds and waterfowl abundant in the area, birding and wildlife photography is popular as well. Recreation Swimming and sailing are popular ways to enjoy the lake, and anglers can find exceptional bank and boat fishing for catfish, crappie and bass. Facilities The campground offers a playground for families, a boat ramp for easy lake a

JEFFERSON SPRINGS
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — J Percy Priest Lake
~6h 20m
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Overview Jefferson Springs Recreation Area is a lakeside oasis in the hills of middle Tennessee, providing visitors with countless recreational activities on the lake and the surrounding woods and grasslands. Recreation The lake provides a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities for millions of visitors each year. Because of the temperate climate and relatively long recreation season, visitors have numerous activities to choose from, including fishing, hunting, picnicking, boating, canoeing, hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing. Fishing opportunities abound at J. Percy Priest La

DONLEY CABIN
DevelopedUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~3h 24m
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Yes
Overview Donley Cabin is a primitive and historic structure in the heart of the Cherokee National Forest, offering visitors a glimpse of the past. The cabin does not have electricity, running water or locks on the door. Guests should be aware that visitors often frequent the cabin during tours of the area. It predates the Civil War and is among the oldest cabins available for rental in the Forest Service system. The cabin offers access to a variety of recreational activities, including numerous trails and streams. Visitors must walk a quarter-mile from the parking area, along a slight grade an

Right Bank Recreation Area
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — Cheatham Lock and Dam
~7h 38m
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Yes
Overview The relaxing family friendly atmosphere at Right Bank Recreation Area will have campers wanting to return as often as possible. Right Bank also known as Cheatham Dam is located about 11 miles northwest of Ashland City, TN and is a 30 minute drive to Nashville. Recreation The temperate climate here allows for a lengthy recreation season, including boating, canoeing, swimming and fishing. Camping is also available in the adjacent Lock A Campground. There are several playgrounds for the children and horseshoe pits for the adults. The area also provides numerous individual picnic tables w

TAILWATER REC AREA
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — Cordell Hull Lake
~6h 16m
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Overview Tailwater Recreation Area is located just below Cordell Hull Lake and Dam on the Cumberland River System, outside the town of Carthage, TN. The lake itself was named after one of America's outstanding statesmen and one of Tennessee's finest volunteers. Hull was born in a log cabin in the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains. Families and friends enjoy coming to the lake for boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, hunting and relaxing in the outdoors. Click here for a virtual tour of the Cordell Hull Lake facilities. Recreation Boating and fishing opportunities abound on the Cumberland Ri

OLD HICKORY BEACH
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — Old Hickory Lake
~6h 59m
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Overview Old Hickory Beach sits along the lengthy shoreline of Old Hickory Lake. The day-use area is perfect for visitors looking to spend a day on the lake or lounging on the beach. Entertaining is easy with a large group picnic shelter accommodating up to 100 guests and grills for cooking out. Birders can find a mix of waterfowl, wading birds, migratory songbirds and the occasional Blue heron or Snowy egret. Other wildlife in the area includes wild turkey, rabbits and white-tailed deer. Recreation Swimming and sailing are popular activities on the lake, while anglers will find an abundant po

SEVEN POINTS (TN)
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — J Percy Priest Lake
~6h 39m
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Overview Seven Points Campground is a lakeside oasis in the green hills of Tennessee, providing visitors with countless recreational activities on the lake and the surrounding miles of woods and grasslands. Recreation The lake provides a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities for millions of visitors each year. Because of the temperate climate and relatively long recreation season, visitors have numerous activities to choose from, including fishing, hunting, picnicking, boating, canoeing, hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing. Fishing opportunities abound at J. Percy Priest Lake

Rock Creek Recreation Area (Cherokee National Forest, TN)
DevelopedUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~5h 48m
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Overview Rock Creek Recreation Area is named for the small creek that runs alongside this recreation site. The facilities, creek-fed concrete pond and bathhouse were originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the early 1930s. It is located just outside the town of Erwin, TN at an elevation of 2,300 feet - a welcome respite from the summer heat. Be Bear Wise: Food storage compliance is strictly enforced. Store all food and trash in hard-sided containers and vehicles while not in use. Never have attractants in your tent. Violations of the food storage order are ticketable offenses an

SPENCE CABIN
DevelopedNational Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
~4h 9m
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Overview Spence Cabin is an ideal place to hold a small family gathering or family reunion away from the hustle and bustle of nearby towns. It is also an excellent location for a meeting or training session for a small group of people, or for a small wedding or reception. The outdoor patios are great places to relax and enjoy the beautiful atmosphere of the Great Smoky Mountains. The cabin is situated within the Elkmont Historic District, which was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1994. Recreation There are numerous hiking trails within or near Elkmont, including the Littl

SHUTES BRANCH
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — Old Hickory Lake
~6h 50m
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Overview Shutes Branch is located on the popular Old Hickory Lake, just a short drive outside of Nashville. There's plenty of opportunities for boating, biking, swimming and fishing, as well as sailing. Recreation Bikers of all skills levels will enjoy the Shutes Branch Mountain Biking Trail, accessed from the picnic area. The first part of the trail is ideal for beginners, while the second portion will challenge more experienced cyclists with rockier terrain, ledges and tight turns. With its close vicinity to the water, Fishing and swimming are consistently popular activities at Shutes Branch

COSBY PICNIC PAVILION
DevelopedNational Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
~4h 32m
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Overview Tucked in the mountains under a canopy of cool shade, this picnic pavilion creates a peaceful and secluded environment for visitors, offering the best that the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has to offer. Picnic pavilion is along Cosby creek. The picnic area is sheltered and accessible. Just across the parking area is an accessible restroom. Recreation Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from Cosby, including the App

ROARING RIVER PARK
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — Cordell Hull Lake
~6h 12m
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Overview Roaring River Park is located on Cordell Hull Lake on the Cumberland River System, near Gainesboro, TN. The lake itself was named after one of America's outstanding statesmen and one of Tennessee's finest volunteers. Hull was born in a log cabin in the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains. Many people enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, hunting and hiking in this wonderful natural area. Click here for a virtual tour of the Cordell Hull Lake facilities. Recreation The 12,000-acre lake stretches 72 miles upstream and has 381 miles of shoreline, offering recreational activities for just a

DOVER
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — Barkley Lake
~8h 40m
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Overview Dover is a day-use area that overlooks the lovely Lake Barkley. Whether it's a gathering of family or friends, visitors can enjoy nature at its best in one of the country's greatest freshwater recreational complexes. Recreation Boating, fishing and picnicking are popular activities at Dover day-use area. Wildlife including the occasional deer, raccoon or golden eagle, are commonly spotted in the area. Facilities The group picnic shelter accomidates about 35 people and 10 vehicles. The facility has lights and electricity and a water spigot. Natural Features Lake Barkley, the westernmos

BANDY CREEK
DevelopedNational Park Service — Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area
~5h 55m
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Overview Bandy Creek is a spacious and modern campground, situated in The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area--a vast and scenic expanse of land that offers visitors countless recreational activities. Recreation Numerous trails snake through the Recreation Area, offering mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding for visitors. A swimming pool, along with on-site volleyball court, playgrounds and ball fields, make Bandy Creek an ideal spot for families. The main river of the Big South Fork is also a short drive away, offering fishing opportunities. Facilities Bandy Creek combine

ANDERSON ROAD CAMPGROUND
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — J Percy Priest Lake
~6h 39m
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Overview Anderson Road Campground is a lakeside oasis in the green hills of Tennessee, providing campers with countless recreational activities on the lake and in the surrounding woods and grasslands. Recreation The lake provides a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities for millions of visitors each year. Because of the temperate climate and relatively long recreation season, visitors have numerous activities to choose from, including fishing, hunting, picnicking, boating, canoeing, hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing. Fishing opportunities abound at J. Percy Priest Lake, with

MCNABB CREEK GROUP
DevelopedUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~3h 25m
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Overview McNabb Creek Group Campground is located on the North River in the Tellico River area. Fishing, swimming, hiking and hunting are popular activities. Recreation The North River offers plenty of fishing and swimming opportunities. Visitors also enjoy hiking local trails and seasonal hunting. Facilities The campground offers one group site that can accommodate from 10 to 60 people. It is equipped with picnic tables, grills and portable toilets. Natural Features The campground sits along the North River, a major tributary of the Tellico River, in the Smokey Mountains of the Cherokee Natio

CHILHOWEE CAMPGROUND
DevelopedUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~3h 13m
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Overview Located in the Chilhowee Recreation Area, Chilhowee Campground offers a multitude of camping opportunities for both RV and tent sites, many with electric hookups. The day-use area includes McKamy Lake, a swim area with sand beach, picnic sites, a group picnic area, and a bathhouse. Be Aware; Do not use GPS directions: GPS coordinates will direct you up Benton Springs Rd. This route is not recommended. We recommend using Forest Service Road 77 to reach the recreation area. It's important to note, this facility requires driving 7 miles up to Chilhowee Campground on a narrow, winding roa

DYERS CREEK
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — Barkley Lake
~8h 40m
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Overview Dyer's Creek boasts fantastic views of on the sparkling Lake Barkley in the wooded rolling hills of Tennessee. Whether it's a family picnic and a BBQ with friends, the recreation area provides the perfect setting for a relaxing get-together. Recreation Visitors here enjoy boating, fishing, wildlife watching and swimming. Bring the binoculars and search for wildlife like the white-tailed deer, raccoons and bald eagles. Fishing is popular, and during warm months bass and catfish are abundant. Facilities The park provides a playground, volleyball court, flush toilets and a boat ramp. The

CADES COVE CAMPGROUND
DevelopedNational Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
~4h 0m
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Overview Over 2 million visitors annually come to enjoy the scenic beauty of Cades Cove and its many historic structures. Popular activities here include hiking, biking, touring the 11-mile Cades Cove loop road and observing wildlife. Whether blanketed in bright wildflowers in the spring or vivid colors in the fall, the scenery at Cades Cove never disappoints. Recreation The Great Smoky Mountains are a hikers paradise and visitors to Cades Cove Campground love the 5-mile roundtrip hike to Abram Falls. From Cades Cove Loop Road, follow the signage at the turnoff for directions to the trailhead.

ABRAM'S CREEK CAMPGROUND
DevelopedNational Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
~4h 0m
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Overview Abram's Creek Campground is located in a relatively remote area of Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The secluded setting offers visitors the ability to enjoy a multitude of recreational activities like hiking and fishing, without the crowds, which are sometimes common in other areas of the park. Recreation Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks. Hiking is not the only reason for visiting the Smokies: Fishing, picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are popular ac

DALE HOLLOW LAKE - PRIMITIVE CAMPING
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — Dale Hollow Lake
~6h 27m
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Overview Dale Hollow Lake Primitive Camping is a unique series of 32 locations with a total of over 70 individually designated family campsites dispersed over 620 miles of shoreline. Campsites are located in both the states of Tennessee and Kentucky. Primitive camping offers a unique rustic lake front camping experience. Remote locations along the shoreline offer campers a peaceful nature experience. Most designated tent sites are accessible only by boat; while a few can be reached by country road. Campers are advised that these areas are remote, primitive sites. Toilets are vault/pit type out

THUNDER ROCK CAMPGROUND
DevelopedUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~3h 0m
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Overview Thunder Rock Campground is located 1.8 miles northwest of the Ocoee Whitewater Center, just behind TVA Ocoee Powerhouse Number 3. Nestled alongside the Ocoee River, this facility provides 37 regular campsites for popups and RVs less than 20 feet with no elctricity , ONLY site 9 is an electric site for less than 20 feet at 30 amp, and one group campsite. Thunder Rock is a popular destination for both whitewater and trail enthusiasts. Recreation Trailhead parking is available for the nearby Tanasi trail system, which includes approximately 30 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails.

ELKMONT GROUP CAMP
DevelopedNational Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
~4h 10m
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Overview Situated in the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this site offers an ideal setting for group camping excursions and outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Recreation Visitors can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the nearby Little River and countless other streams and rivers that snake through the mountains, with trout available in abundance. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from Elkm

Long Branch (Center Hill Lake)
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — Center Hill Lake
~5h 52m
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Overview Long Branch Campground is located below Center Hill Dam on the scenic Caney Fork River in central Tennessee's Highland Rim. Above the dam, the lake stretches 64 miles up the river, where visitors come to enjoy boating, fishing and water sports. The 415 miles of forested shoreline provide excellent hiking, hunting and camping opportunities. 2025 Events: The annual Halloween event will be held Saturday, October 25, 2025. Recreation Fishermen come to Long Branch to experience trophy trout fishing on the river, which is stocked with rainbow and brown trout. Fly fishers and spin fishers al

BLUE HERON CAMPGROUND
DevelopedNational Park Service — Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area
~6h 15m
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Overview Blue Heron Campground is a rustic and spacious campground, situated on the Kentucky side of The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area--a vast and scenic expanse of land that offers visitors countless recreational activities. Recreation Numerous trails snake through the Recreation Area, offering mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding for visitors. The main river of the Big South Fork is also a short drive away, offering fishing opportunities. Facilities Blue Heron Campground combines the experience of traditional woods camping with the modern convenience of flush toil

GREENBRIER PICNIC PAVILION
DevelopedNational Park Service — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
~4h 20m
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Overview Tucked in the mountains under a canopy of cool shade, this picnic pavilion creates a peaceful and secluded environment for visitors, offering the best of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Recreation Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, offering over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from the picnic area. But hiking is not the only reason for visiting the Smokies: Fishing, picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are also popular activities. Visitors can

ROCKLAND RECREATION AREA
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — Old Hickory Lake
~7h 0m
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Overview Rockland Recreation Area is located on the shore of Old Hickory Lake in Hendersonville, Tennessee. Old Hickory Lake was created by the Army Corps of Engineers on the Cumberland River. The lake is named after former president Andrew Jackson, nicknamed for his tough and aggressive personality. Recreation Visitors enjoy a vast array of recreational opportunities at Old Hickory including waterskiing, fishing, boating, swimming and hiking. The area provides excellent fishing for several species including bass, crappie, walleye, sauger and catfish. Facilities Rockland Recreation Area contai

DEFEATED CREEK PARK
DevelopedUS Army Corps of Engineers — Cordell Hull Lake
~6h 17m
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Overview Defeated Creek Park Campground sits along the banks of Cordell Hull Lake on the Cumberland River System, just seven miles from Carthage, Tennessee. The lake was named after Cordell Hull, a politician that was born in the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains. Hull is best known for being the longest running secretary of state in American history, serving for 11 years. Click here for a virtual tour of the Cordell Hull Lake facilities. Recreation The 12,000-acre lake stretches 72 miles upstream and boasts 381 miles of shoreline, offering countless recreational activities for visitors. A
Lakeside Resort (Formerly Tech Aqua)
Destination · day useUS Army Corps of Engineers — Center Hill Lake
~5h 38m
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No camping here (facility) — camp nearby
This recreation area is part of Center Hill Lake
Starr Mountain Area
Destination · day useUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~3h 25m
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No camping here (facility) — camp nearby
Starr Mountain is a popular area of the national forest for horse riding & camping with nearly 20 miles of trails and a number of roads available for riding. Lost Corral Campground & Trailhead provides the easiest access to the area. This zone also features Gee Creek Wilderness and the Gee Creek Trail #191 trail that only gets more challenging the further you hike. Access is located off US Highway 411 near the Hiwassee River and state managed Gee Creek Campground. Starr Mountain Area Map Starr Mountain Area Guide
Dale Hollow Lake State Park
Destination · day useUS Army Corps of Engineers — Dale Hollow Lake
~6h 29m
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No camping here (facility) — camp nearby
This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake
French Broad River Area
Destination · day useUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~5h 1m
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No camping here (facility) — camp nearby
This area’s wooded mountainsides and creek gorges are linked by an extensive road and trail system. Activities include fishing, hiking, horseback riding, creek play and camping. At Paint Creek, camping, fishing, swimming and picnicking are popular activities. Other water-based opportunities include driving along scenic Brush Creek or exploring warm-water Allen Branch or Paint Creek ponds. Enjoy the scenery from horseback on 35 miles of multi-use trails, also open to mountain bikers and hikers. The Appalachian Scenic Trail lies along the eastern edge of this area. French Broad River Area Map Fr
Big Frog Area
Destination · day useUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~3h 1m
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This area is known for solitude and backcountry adventure, with Big Frog Wilderness being a destination for backpacking, day-hiking and hunting. The area offers about 35 miles of backcountry trails, some of which climb to over 4,000 feet. In addition to the backcountry hiking opportunities, the area is also managed as a Black Bear reserve. Try snorkeling at Conasauga River, renowned for remarkable fish viewing. Pitch a tent at Tumbling Creek or Sylco Campgrounds. Big Frog Area Map Big Frog Area Guide
Iron Mountains
Destination · day useUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~6h 50m
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Rugged mountain solitude can be experienced throughout this area. Long distance backpacking, trout fishing and the shortest tunnel in the world are a few features you can find here. The Osborne Farm offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains from the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (A.T.). From there, take a multi-day backpack trip along the A.T. and Iron Mountain Trail. Try your hand at trout fishing in Beaverdam and Laurel Creeks. Camp at Backbone Rock Recreation Area and explore what is known locally as the shortest tunnel in the world. Iron Mountains Map Iron Mountains Guide
Shady Cove Resort
Destination · day useUS Army Corps of Engineers — Old Hickory Lake
~6h 48m
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This recreation area is part of Old Hickory Lake
Ocoee River Area
Destination · day useUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~3h 5m
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World class whitewater, mountain biking trail systems, environmental education programs, highly developed camping, and scenic byways are a few activities featured in the Ocoee River area. Local outfitters offer rafting excursions in the Ocoee River ’s world-class whitewater. The Ocoee Whitewater Center is a hub for outdoor adventure and offers regional information, environmental education, trails and picnic sites. Bike the 30-mile Tanasi Trail complex and trails at Chilhowee Recreation Area or take a scenic drive along the Ocoee Scenic Byway (US 64 and Forest Road 77). Popular camping areas in
Hiwassee River Area
Destination · day useUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~3h 7m
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Forested hillsides and pastoral river bottoms complement the beauty of Hiwassee River Gorge. Fishing, rafting, canoeing and hiking are popular activities. The 21-mile John Muir National Recreation Trail , a section of the longer distance Benton MacKaye Trail, meanders along the river. Camp at the nearby state campground at Gee Creek. Fish Your National Forests: This site can be accessed by Passenger Car; Fish available include: Trout; Types of fishing available include: Wade, Shore, Motorized boat, Fly; Boat Launch available Hiwassee River Area Map Hiwassee River Area Guide
Defeated Creek Marina
Destination · day useUS Army Corps of Engineers — Cordell Hull Lake
~6h 17m
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This recreation area is part of Cordell Hull Lake
Watauga Lake Area
Destination · day useUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~6h 27m
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Water recreation is abundant in this area, featuring Watauga Lake; the Doe, Elk and Watauga rivers; several streams and seven waterfalls. Highly developed recreation areas along Watauga Lake provide facilities for fishing, picnicking, swimming and boat launching. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail runs through the area's backcountry. Camp on the lakeshore at Cardens Bluff or in the backcountry along Laurel Fork Creek at Dennis Cove. Watuaga Lake Area Map Watuaga Lake Area Guide
Star Point Marina
Destination · day useUS Army Corps of Engineers — Dale Hollow Lake
~6h 21m
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This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake
Citico Creek Area
Destination · day useUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~3h 41m
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This area provides opportunities for solitude and backcountry experiences. You will find ample opportunities for fishing, horseback riding, camping, and hiking. With more than 20,000 acres of Wilderness in Citico Creek and Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock, this area provides ample opportunities for solitude and backcountry experiences. Catch both native and stocked trout in Citico Creek and its rugged tributaries, and fish for small-mouth bass and catfish in the creek’s lower reaches. Citico Creek Area Map Citico Creek Area Guide
Bald Mountains
Destination · day useUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~5h 30m
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Most of the area is remote backcountry, including Bald Mountain Ridge Scenic Area and Sampson Mountain Wilderness. Roads are limited, but forty-plus miles of trail access the forest. The area is known for its diverse populations of wildflowers and a number of waterfalls, including 60-foot fan-shaped Margarette Falls and Sill Branch Falls. Try fishing Nolichucky River, Horse Creek, Dry Creek and Clark Creek. Horse Creek and Old Forge Recreation areas offer picnicking, water play and camping. Bald Mountains Map Bald Mountains Guide
Sulphur Creek Marina
Destination · day useUS Army Corps of Engineers — Dale Hollow Lake
~6h 34m
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This recreation area is part of Dale Hollow Lake
Granville Marina
Destination · day useUS Army Corps of Engineers — Cordell Hull Lake
~6h 7m
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This recreation area is part of Cordell Hull Lake
Pigeon River Area
Destination · day useUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~4h 45m
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No camping here (facility) — camp nearby
Favorite activities in this remote area include whitewater rafting, hiking and camping. Located between the French Broad and Pigeon Rivers, this area offers pockets of backcountry nestled among the rural communities of Cocke County, TN. This area is home to Catherine Marshalls’s novel Christy and the historic Wasp Community. Hike a section of the Appalachian Trail and other forest trails. Camp at Round Mountain, rated as the number one tent campground in Tennessee. Explore Martha Sundquist State Forest and contact local outfitters to help guide your whitewater adventure. Pigeon River Area Map
Unaka Mountains
Destination · day useUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~5h 53m
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No camping here (facility) — camp nearby
Backcountry trails, scenic driving and the Nolichucky River provide opportunities for outdoor adventure. High elevation balds along the Unaka Mountain Range offer spectacular views. Look for Pinnacle Mountain Fire Tower located on the crest of Buffalo Mountain. The zone is rich with Civilian Conservation Corps history: view their legacy at Laurels, Rock Creek and Unaka Mountain Road. Enjoy picnicking at Laurels, Limestone Cove, Rock Creek and Chestoa or camp at Rock Creek Recreation Area. Unaka Mountains Map Unaka Mountains Guide
Tellico River Area
Destination · day useUSDA Forest Service — Cherokee National Forest
~3h 24m
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No camping here (facility) — camp nearby
This area provides outstanding opportunities for fishing, camping, hiking, and scenic driving. It is also home to the popular Indian Boundary Recreation Area and the Cherohala Skyway. Nearly 30,000 acres of remote backcountry surround three rivers and their tributaries, where fishing for brown, rainbow and brook trout is excellent. Cherohala Skyway (TN 165/NC143), a 43-mile National Scenic Byway, winds between Tellico Plains, Tenn. and Robbinsville, N.C. Tellico River Road (FR 210) offers intimate views of the river and 90-foot Bald River Falls. Spend the night at the historic Donley Cabin and
Harpeth River Bridge
Destination · day useUS Army Corps of Engineers — Cheatham Lock and Dam
~7h 32m
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No camping here (facility) — camp nearby
This recreation area is part of Cheatham Lock and Dam
Data source: RIDB.