Chilhowee Campground
Closed — Closed for the season. The campground typically operates from early April through late October. Access was temporarily disrupted in fall 2024 for road improvements and installation of bear-proof dumpster pads, with the project expected to be completed before the 2025 summer season. The overflow and day-use areas remain open year-round.
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
Located in the Chilhowee Recreation Area of Cherokee National Forest, Chilhowee Campground provides a mountain retreat with more than 70 campsites spread across non-electric, electric, and walk-in configurations. Multiple flush bathhouses serve the campground loops. The centerpiece of the recreation area is 7-acre McKamy Lake, which offers a sand beach swimming area and bank fishing opportunities. Non-motorized boats and electric motors are permitted on the lake. The Chilhowee Trail System encompasses approximately 25 miles of trails suitable for both hiking and mountain biking. The most popular destination is Benton Falls, reached via a moderate 1.5-mile trail. Scenic overlooks along Forest Service Road 77 on the approach to the campground provide expansive mountain views. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant throughout the recreation area. Access to the campground requires driving 7.5 miles up Forest Service Road 77 from Highway 64/411, a narrow and winding mountain road. GPS directions often incorrectly route visitors via Benton Springs Road, an unpaved route not recommended for RVs. The campground sits at elevation and can be challenging for inexperienced RV drivers. Bear-proof food storage is required throughout Cherokee National Forest.
Directions
From the intersection of Highway 64 and Highway 411, travel east 7 miles and turn onto Forest Service Road 77. Drive 7.5 miles to the campground entrance. Do not use GPS directions as they may route you via Benton Springs Road, an unpaved and dangerous route for RVs. Use Forest Service Road 77 only.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | Yes |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $12 - $20 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 90ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 90ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (423) 338-3300 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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