Birch Branch Campground
Closed — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No advance reservations available. Payment by cash, check, or potentially via Scan and Pay using the Recreation.gov mobile app.
Access disruption south of Parksville Lake for Culvert Replacement
The Forest Service plans to begin work Dec. 31, 2025 that will disrupt access to Indian Creek Road (NFSR 302) on the Cherokee National Forest south of Parksville Lake in Polk County. Access will be disrupted while 100 culverts are replaced.
Little Sylco Project closes portion of FS 221
The US Forest Service plans to disrupt access to portions of FS 221 beginning Nov. 10 south of Parksville Lake while permanent water crossing repairs are completed to improve access across the Cherokee National Forest in Polk County.
Little Milligan Boat Ramp Temporary Closure Planned
Temporary closure for Little Milligan Boat Ramp Recreation Area is planned to start in the fall of 2025 for visitor health and safety during logging operations. A specific start date for the closure is to be determined.
About
Birch Branch Campground sits along Tellico River Road (Forest Road 210) in Cherokee National Forest, approximately 15 miles upstream from the Ranger Station. This intimate campground features just 5 sites, each with a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern post. The location is especially popular with fishing enthusiasts who appreciate the proximity to the Tellico River and the ability to wake early and begin fishing immediately. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, requiring visitors to physically arrive to purchase and claim a site. Some sites may offer a Scan and Pay option via the Recreation.gov mobile app, though cellular service can be limited in this remote area. The setting is rustic, with vault toilets available but no potable water on-site. The $10 per night fee (with 50% discount for Interagency Senior/Access Pass holders) makes it an affordable option for those seeking a simple riverside camping experience.
Directions
From Tellico Plains, take TN 165 east for approximately 5 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 210, passing the Ranger Station. Continue upstream on Tellico River Road for approximately 15 miles to reach the campground.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $10 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| View on Recreation.gov |
Availability
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