Chilhowee Group Camp

Tennessee is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, offering diverse landscapes that beckon outdoor enthusiasts. For groups – whether it's a family reunion, a scout troop, a church retreat, or a gathering of friends – finding a single campsite that can comfortably accommodate everyone while providing access to incredible outdoor activities can be a challenge. Enter Chilhowee Group Camp, a dedicated facility nestled within the expansive Cherokee National Forest near Benton. This isn't just a place to pitch a few tents; it's a "huge" and thoughtfully designed space built specifically for large gatherings, ensuring ample room for activities and a sense of privacy. For Tennesseans planning their next collective outdoor adventure, Chilhowee Group Camp offers the perfect blend of spaciousness, natural beauty, and convenient access to the region's best recreational offerings, making it an ideal choice for creating shared memories amidst the stunning backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains.

Chilhowee Group Camp is situated in Benton, TN 37307, within the broader Chilhowee Recreation Area of the Cherokee National Forest. Its location near the top of Chilhowee Mountain, at an elevation of 2,000 feet, provides a beautiful forested setting of mixed hardwood and pine. For Tennesseans, this means a refreshing mountain escape that feels remote but remains accessible. The general address for the Chilhowee Recreation Area is 3171 US-64, Benton, TN 37307. However, it is crucial to note that precise driving directions are key for a smooth arrival. Visitors should NOT rely on GPS directions that might lead them up Benton Springs Road, as this route is unpaved, narrow, and potentially dangerous for larger vehicles or those unfamiliar with mountain driving. Instead, the recommended and much safer approach is via Forest Service Road 77 (also known as Oswald Dome Road) off US-64. This paved road winds 7 to 7.5 miles up to the recreation area, offering multiple scenic overlooks along the way. From major Tennessee cities, Chilhowee Group Camp is approximately an hour's drive northeast from Chattanooga and about an hour and a half to two hours southwest from Knoxville, making it a feasible destination for weekend or longer group trips from various parts of the state.

Chilhowee Group Camp is designed to cater specifically to the needs of large groups, offering a dedicated space with essential amenities for a comfortable and functional outdoor gathering. While specific individual site amenities might vary slightly from general campgrounds, the group camp focuses on communal needs. Based on available public information and customer reviews, the services offered include:

• Spacious Group Site: The defining feature is its expansive size, designed to accommodate up to 75 individuals, providing "lots of room to camp in" and space for various activities.
• Separate from Main Campground: A key advantage is that it is "separate from the rest of the campsite," offering enhanced privacy and reducing potential disturbances from other campers.
• Designated Community "Kitchen" Area: Reviews mention a "community 'kitchen' area" with large grills and a fire pit close by, suggesting a central spot for cooking and gathering. Guests often bring canopies to place over the tables for protection from sun or rain.
• Picnic Tables: While not explicitly stated for every individual spot within the large group area, it is typical for group sites to have multiple picnic tables to accommodate large gatherings.
• Fire Pits/Rings: A fire pit is available, perfect for communal campfires, storytelling, and cooking.
• Modern Bathhouses Nearby: As part of the larger Chilhowee Recreation Area, the group camp has access to modern bathhouses within a short walk. These facilities typically include flush toilets and hot showers, offering a significant convenience.
• Water Hydrants: Water spigots are generally available within the broader recreation area, allowing for water access, though proximity to the group camp specifically should be confirmed upon arrival.
• RV Dump Station Access: The larger Chilhowee Recreation Area has an RV dump station, usually at the end of Loop E, which group campers with RVs can utilize.
• Direct Access to Trails: The group camp is within easy walking distance to McKamy Lake and the Benton Falls trailhead.
• Gated Access (for privacy): The group site has a gate, which, when kept closed, helps ensure privacy and prevents unauthorized vehicles from driving through.

Chilhowee Group Camp boasts a range of features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for group outdoor adventures in Tennessee. Its strength lies in its ability to facilitate large gatherings within a stunning natural environment.

• Impressive Size and Privacy: The "huge" and separate nature of the group campsite is a major highlight, offering ample space for large groups to spread out, engage in activities, and enjoy a private experience away from the main campground's hustle and bustle.
• Proximity to McKamy Lake: Just a "short walk up to the lake," campers have easy access to the 7-acre McKamy Lake, which features:
  • Nice Beach Area: A sandy beach area perfect for kids to swim and play, offering a refreshing escape during warmer months. (Note: No lifeguard on duty).
  • Boating and Fishing: Opportunities for non-gasoline motor boating (kayaking, canoeing) and bank fishing.
• Direct Access to Benton Falls Trailhead: The group camp is conveniently located near the trailhead for Benton Falls, allowing groups to easily embark on the popular 1.5-mile (one-way) hike to the beautiful 65-foot waterfall.
• Extensive Hiking and Biking Trails: Beyond Benton Falls, the Chilhowee Recreation Area offers approximately 25 miles of diverse hiking and mountain biking trails suitable for various skill levels.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: Situated at 2,000 feet elevation within a mixed hardwood and pine forest, the camp provides a picturesque and serene backdrop for outdoor activities and relaxation.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is known for abundant wildlife, offering opportunities for groups to observe local fauna.
• Scenic Overlooks Nearby: The drive up Forest Service Road 77 features multiple stunning overlooks with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Parksville Lake, adding to the overall scenic experience.
• Suitable for Large Events: The capacity for up to 75 individuals makes it ideal for large family reunions, scout jamborees, school trips, or corporate team-building retreats.

For reservations, inquiries, or more specific details about booking Chilhowee Group Camp, you should contact the Ocoee Ranger District of the Cherokee National Forest, or utilize the national park reservation system.

• Address: The physical location of the group camp is within the Chilhowee Recreation Area, Benton, TN 37307. For direct communication or inquiries related to the management office, the address for the Ocoee Ranger District is 3171 US-64, Benton, TN 37307, USA.
• Phone: (423) 338-3300
• Mobile Phone: +1 423-338-3300

Reservations for Chilhowee Group Camp are typically made through Recreation.gov, the official reservation system for federal recreation sites. It is highly recommended to book well in advance, especially for large groups and during peak seasons, as group sites can fill up quickly. Be sure to confirm the exact driving directions (Forest Service Road 77) from the Ranger District or Recreation.gov to ensure a smooth arrival. When booking, clarify any specific rules regarding gate usage (keeping it closed for privacy), quiet hours, and waste disposal for large groups.

Chilhowee Group Camp is an exceptional choice for locals in Tennessee who are organizing a significant group outdoor experience. For residents across the state, its dedicated and "huge" group site provides the rare combination of ample space and relative privacy, allowing large families, youth groups, or friends to gather comfortably without feeling cramped. Its location within the stunning Cherokee National Forest means direct access to a wealth of outdoor activities: a short walk leads to the inviting sandy beach of McKamy Lake for swimming and non-motorized boating, and the trailhead for the beautiful Benton Falls is practically on your doorstep. The extensive network of hiking and biking trails ensures that every member of the group, from casual strollers to avid adventurers, can find an activity to enjoy. For locals, this ease of access to such diverse recreational opportunities within a well-maintained national forest setting is incredibly valuable. While some may find the general Chilhowee Recreation Area busy at times due to its popularity, the group camp's separate and gated nature helps maintain a sense of seclusion for your gathering. The provision of essential amenities like nearby modern bathhouses and a communal cooking area further enhances the experience, making Chilhowee Group Camp the perfect stage for creating unforgettable shared memories amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Tennessee mountains.

Chilhowee Group Camp

Benton, TN 37307, USA