Chilhowee Group Camp
Closed — Closed for the season. Opens April 14, 2025 and operates through October 20, 2025. Reservations available via Recreation.gov and must be made at least 4 days in advance. Group areas require cancellation more than 14 days before the reservation date for a refund.
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
Chilhowee Group Camp is located in the scenic Chilhowee Recreation Area within Cherokee National Forest, perched near the top of Chilhowee Mountain at 2,000 feet elevation. The group campground accommodates up to 75 individuals and serves as an excellent base camp for outdoor recreation in the surrounding mixed hardwood and pine forest. The recreation area features 7-acre McKamy Lake, a short walk from the group camp, offering a sandy swim beach and bank fishing opportunities. Boats are permitted on the lake, though gasoline motors are prohibited. The Chilhowee Trails System provides approximately 25 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, with scenic waterfalls accessible nearby. The drive up to the campground includes several observation overlooks offering stunning mountain vistas. Wildlife is abundant throughout the area, making it ideal for nature observation and photography. Food storage restrictions apply, requiring all food and beverages to be stored in bear-proof containers, locked vehicles, or hard-sided campers. For additional adventure, world-class whitewater rafting is available on the nearby Ocoee and Hiwassee Rivers.
Directions
From Highway 64/411 intersection, travel east 7 miles, turn onto Forest Road 77, drive 7.5 miles up Chilhowee Mountain to the campground/recreation area entrance sign and turn right.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | — |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $50 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (423) 338-3300 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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