Jake Best Campground

For those of us in Tennessee seeking a truly authentic and tranquil outdoor experience, Jake Best Campground in Vonore offers a cherished escape. Tucked away on the banks of Citico Creek, this primitive campground has been a beloved destination for generations, with some families returning for over 30 years. It’s a place where the simplicity of nature takes center stage, and the sounds of the rushing river create a serene backdrop for your adventure. Jake Best Campground provides a back-to-basics camping experience, appealing to those who appreciate a clean, well-kept site without the extensive amenities of more developed resorts. It's particularly popular among trout fishermen and hunters, thanks to its prime location within the Citico Creek Wilderness of the Cherokee National Forest. If you're looking to disconnect, immerse yourself in nature, and enjoy the peace and quiet that only a true wilderness setting can provide, Jake Best Campground is a destination worth exploring. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of what makes Jake Best Campground a special place for Tennessee locals, from its unique location and accessibility to the specific services and features that define a stay here, ensuring you have all the information to plan your perfect outdoor getaway.

Jake Best Campground is located on Highway 360, Vonore, TN 37885, USA. This address places it within the stunning natural beauty of the Cherokee National Forest, specifically nestled along the banks of Citico Creek. While the location offers a deeply immersive wilderness experience, it's generally accessible for most vehicles, though some visitors note that the road in can be gravel for a portion, requiring careful driving. For residents across Tennessee, reaching Vonore provides a scenic drive, transitioning from more populated areas into the serene foothills and mountains of Eastern Tennessee.

The campground's position on Citico Creek is a significant highlight, offering immediate access to a prime spot for fishing and enjoying the calming presence of the water. Its placement within the Cherokee National Forest means it’s surrounded by vast expanses of protected land, ensuring a sense of seclusion and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation. While it might feel "off the beaten path," this is precisely what contributes to its appeal for those seeking a true escape from civilization. Cell phone service in this area is typically limited, further encouraging a disconnect from digital distractions and a deeper connection with the natural environment. This combination of accessibility and genuine wilderness makes Jake Best Campground an ideal retreat for Tennesseans looking to get back to basics and enjoy the tranquility of the forest.

Jake Best Campground operates as a primitive Forest Service campground, focusing on essential amenities that support a natural and self-sufficient camping experience. While it may not offer all the conveniences of a full-service RV park, it provides crucial elements for a comfortable stay in the wilderness. Here's what you can generally expect:

• Clean and Well-Kept Sites: Visitors consistently praise the campground for being "clean, well kept," indicating a good level of maintenance despite its primitive nature. Each site typically contains a clear, level area for setting up tents or small campers.

• Vault Toilets: The campground does provide a bathroom facility, specifically a vault toilet (outhouse). While not a flush toilet, it is noted to be "very well maintained" and clean, which is a significant amenity for a primitive site.

• Fire Rings/Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, often with a grill top, allowing for campfires, cooking, and warmth. Visitors should always check for any current fire bans or restrictions.

• Picnic Tables: Conveniently, picnic tables are available at each site, providing a dedicated surface for meal preparation and outdoor dining.

• Lantern Posts: Some sites are also noted to include lantern posts, a thoughtful addition for hanging lighting in the evenings.

• No Potable Water: It's important for campers to be aware that there is no potable (drinking) water available on-site. Visitors must bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene, or be prepared to filter and treat water from natural sources like Citico Creek.

• No Electric Hookups: As a primitive campground, Jake Best does not offer electric hookups. Campers should be prepared for an off-grid experience, relying on battery-powered devices or other self-sufficient power solutions.

• On-Site Campground Host: During peak seasons, a campground host is typically present, occupying one of the sites. The host helps ensure rules are followed and can be a resource for campers.

• First-Come, First-Served Basis: The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning sites cannot be reserved in advance. Visitors need to physically arrive to claim and pay for a site (a modest fee typically applies).

Jake Best Campground is celebrated for several unique features and highlights that make it a cherished spot for campers, particularly those who appreciate a more rugged and peaceful outdoor experience:

• Serene Riverside Setting: The primary highlight is its location directly on Citico Creek. The "river running at night" creates a calming and picturesque atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the sounds of nature. The water is often described as "crystal clear."

• Excellent for Fishing and Hunting: The campground is widely known and popular among trout fishermen, with Citico Creek being a prime location for both stocked and wild trout. It's also a hub for hunters during their respective seasons.

• Spacious and Uncrowded Feel: Despite being a small campground (around 7 sites), the sites are generally spacious and well-maintained, providing a sense of privacy and ensuring it doesn't feel overly crowded.

• Long-Standing Appeal: The sentiment "Been coming here for 30 years with my family" underscores the deep connection and loyalty many campers have to this particular spot, highlighting its consistent quality and family-friendly appeal over decades.

• True Wilderness Immersion: Located within the Citico Creek Wilderness of the Cherokee National Forest, it offers a genuine escape into the woods. This is ideal for those looking to disconnect from city life and fully immerse themselves in a natural environment.

• Clean and Functional Facilities: The presence of a clean and well-maintained vault toilet is a significant positive for a primitive campground, making the experience more comfortable than a completely undeveloped site.

• Bear Country Awareness: The area is known as "bear country," which, while requiring proper food storage (bear canisters), also signifies a rich, healthy ecosystem and the opportunity for wildlife viewing (from a safe distance).

For those planning a visit to Jake Best Campground, here is the essential contact information:

• Address: Hwy 360, Vonore, TN 37885, USA

• Phone: (423) 253-8400

• Mobile Phone: +1 423-253-8400

It is always advisable to call ahead or check the official USDA Forest Service Cherokee National Forest website for the most current information regarding conditions, fees, and any seasonal closures, as Jake Best Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Jake Best Campground is an outstanding choice for locals in Tennessee who cherish a more traditional, primitive camping experience within a stunning natural setting. For those of us living in the Volunteer State, its location within the Cherokee National Forest and along the beautiful Citico Creek makes it an accessible yet deeply immersive escape. If your idea of a perfect getaway involves the soothing sounds of a river, excellent opportunities for trout fishing or hunting, and a clean, well-kept campsite that feels a world away from urban noise, then Jake Best Campground is perfectly suited for you. The fact that families have been returning for decades speaks volumes about its enduring charm and welcoming atmosphere. While it requires campers to be self-sufficient regarding water and electricity, these aspects contribute to its authentic wilderness appeal, drawing in those who truly want to unplug. Its modest fee and first-come, first-served policy add to its laid-back, adventurous spirit, making it an ideal spot for spontaneous weekend trips or planned outdoor expeditions. For Tennesseans seeking a genuine connection with nature, a peaceful environment, and a classic camping adventure amidst the beauty of our national forests, Jake Best Campground stands out as a highly recommended destination that promises memorable moments right here in our own backyard.

Jake Best Campground

Hwy 360, Vonore, TN 37885, USA