Chilhowee Campground

Hello, Tennessee outdoor enthusiasts! If you're seeking a breathtaking escape into nature without venturing too far from home, Chilhowee Campground is a destination you simply must experience. Nestled within the expansive and beautiful Cherokee National Forest, near Benton, Tennessee, Chilhowee Campground offers a diverse range of camping opportunities designed to cater to every kind of adventurer, from seasoned RVers to traditional tent campers. It's a place where the majestic beauty of the mountains meets the tranquility of a lakeside retreat, providing an ideal setting for relaxation, exploration, and creating unforgettable memories right here in our beloved state.

Chilhowee Campground is more than just a place to set up camp; it's a gateway to an entire recreation area brimming with natural wonders and recreational activities. Imagine waking up to the sounds of nature, surrounded by lush hardwood and pine forests, with the crisp mountain air filling your lungs. This campground provides a true immersion into the heart of Tennessee's wilderness, yet with the convenience of well-maintained facilities and a welcoming environment. It’s a favorite among locals for its ability to offer both solitude and opportunities for family fun, making it a versatile choice for any outdoor plan.

Whether your idea of camping involves the comforts of an RV with electric hookups or the rustic charm of a tent-only site, Chilhowee has a spot for you. The sheer variety of its offerings, combined with its stunning natural backdrop, firmly establishes Chilhowee Campground as a premier destination for anyone in Tennessee looking to embrace the great outdoors.

Chilhowee Campground is strategically located within the Cherokee National Forest, at an address near Tennessee 37307, USA. More specifically, it's part of the larger Chilhowee Recreation Area, situated near the top of Chilhowee Mountain at an elevation of 2,000 feet. This elevated position provides stunning mountain views, particularly from scenic overlooks along the drive up. While the provided address is broad, the campground is easily pinpointed as being in the vicinity of Benton, TN.

Accessibility to Chilhowee Campground is generally good, but there's an important note for local travelers, especially those in RVs or pulling trailers. While the general area is accessible via paved roads, it is highly recommended to use Forest Service Road 77 to reach the recreation area. Some GPS directions may attempt to route you up Benton Springs Road, which is an unpaved, narrow, and winding road that is not recommended for larger vehicles or inexperienced drivers. Heeding the signage and sticking to Forest Service Road 77 will ensure a much smoother and safer journey to the campground. The drive itself, though steep and winding for about 7 miles, is often described as beautiful and scenic, with breathtaking views along the way.

This location within the Cherokee National Forest means campers have immediate access to a vast network of trails and natural attractions. It’s a convenient hub for exploring the region’s diverse ecosystems and enjoying various outdoor pursuits without needing to travel long distances from your campsite. The balance of a remote feel with manageable access makes Chilhowee Campground a highly appealing choice for Tennessee residents.

Chilhowee Campground offers a comprehensive suite of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors.

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground boasts over 70 campsites, including options for RVs (many with electric hookups), tent-only sites, and walk-in tent sites with electricity in loops A and B. There are also group sites available.
• Clean Bathhouses with Hot Showers: Multiple bathhouses are distributed throughout the campground loops and the day-use area, providing flush toilets and warm showers, a highly valued amenity by campers.
• Potable Water Access: Water hydrants are conveniently located throughout the campground, ensuring easy access to drinking water.
• Picnic Tables, Grills, and Lantern Posts: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, a grill or fire ring, and a lantern post, providing essential facilities for outdoor living and cooking.
• RV Dump Station: An RV dump station is available at the end of E Loop, offering a convenient service for RV campers.
• Day-Use Area: The recreation area includes a dedicated day-use area, featuring picnic sites, a group picnic area, and a bathhouse.
• Seasonal Operation: The campground is typically open from early April to late October, with an overflow area and day-use area remaining open year-round for extended access.

Chilhowee Campground stands out for its impressive array of features and highlights that cater to a wide range of outdoor interests and preferences.

• McKamy Lake Access: The 7-acre McKamy Lake is a central feature of the recreation area, offering a designated swim area with a sand beach, excellent fishing opportunities from the bank, and allowing boats (non-gasoline motors only).
• Extensive Trail System: The recreation area boasts approximately 25 miles of hiking and biking trails within the Chilhowee Trails System, catering to various skill levels. These trails lead to scenic overlooks and natural wonders.
• Benton Falls: A must-see highlight is the stunning 65-foot Benton Falls, accessible via an easy 1.5-mile trail (3-mile roundtrip) from the campground.
• Beautiful Scenery and Views: Situated at 2,000 feet elevation, the campground offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, especially from overlooks along the access road. The forested environment provides ample shade and a picturesque setting.
• Spacious and Private Sites: Many campsites are described as large, wooded, and well-spaced, offering a good degree of privacy for campers.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The Cherokee National Forest is home to diverse wildlife, providing excellent opportunities for bird watching and wildlife photography.
• Camp Host Presence: A campground host is typically located at the entrance to Loops A and B, providing on-site assistance and information to campers.
• Reservations and First-Come, First-Served Sites: While some sites are reservable via Recreation.gov, there are also first-come, first-served sites, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips.

For inquiries regarding Chilhowee Campground, including operational hours, specific site availability, or general information about the Cherokee National Forest, you can contact the relevant authorities.

Address: Tennessee 37307, USA (This refers to the general area, typically within the Cherokee National Forest near Benton, TN. Specific directions are crucial, particularly using Forest Service Road 77).

Phone for Ocoee Ranger District (Cherokee National Forest inquiries): (423) 338-3300 or (423) 338-6577

For reservations, visit Recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777.

Chilhowee Campground is an outstanding choice for Tennessee locals looking for a fulfilling outdoor adventure. Its prime location within the Cherokee National Forest means that you have immediate access to some of the state's most beautiful natural landscapes and abundant recreational opportunities without extensive travel. The campground's versatility, offering both RV sites with electric hookups and more rustic tent camping, ensures that it can accommodate various camping styles and preferences, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of families and individuals.

The emphasis on clean facilities, particularly the bathhouses with hot showers, significantly enhances the comfort level of a camping trip, allowing you to enjoy the rugged beauty of the outdoors without sacrificing essential conveniences. Furthermore, the presence of McKamy Lake with its swimming beach and fishing opportunities, coupled with the extensive network of hiking and biking trails, including the accessible path to Benton Falls, means there's always something to do for every member of the family. The scenic drives and overlooks on the way up the mountain add to the overall experience, making the journey part of the adventure.

For those who cherish privacy and spacious campsites, Chilhowee often delivers, with many sites described as well-spaced and shaded. The presence of a campground host also provides an added layer of support and information, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable stay. In essence, Chilhowee Campground offers a comprehensive, natural, and highly enjoyable outdoor experience that caters perfectly to the desires of Tennessee residents seeking a memorable getaway close to home. It's a place where natural beauty, recreational activities, and thoughtful amenities converge to create an ideal setting for your next escape into the heart of Tennessee's wilderness.

Chilhowee Campground

Tennessee 37307, USA