Chilhowee Group Camp
The group camp is currently closed. The Chilhowee Recreation Area typically operates from mid-April through late October, with the overflow and day-use areas open year-round. Reservations are made through Recreation.gov and must be placed at least 4 days before arrival.
Campsite limitations
Specific Camping prohibitions1. Camping for more than 14 days in developed and dispersed areas. Camping in anylocation is limited to 14 consecutive days. On the 14th consecutive day, the camper andparty must leave that area/campground for a minimum of seven days before returning foranother stay. If…
Camping not permitted within 300 feet of the Cherohala Skyway
Camping restricted along Skyway to beyond 300 yards.
motorboats restricted on Forest Service Lakes
Possession or operating a vessel powered by an internal combustion engine of any size or propelled by any other machinery rated greater than 5 horsepower is prohibited on McKamy Lake, Indian Boundary Lake, and Allen Branch Pond.
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. This Emergency Repair is in response to flood damage that…
Little Milligan Boat Ramp Temporary Closure Planned
The Little Milligan Boat Ramp Recreation Area is temporary unavailable to the public for visitor health and safety during Hurricane Helene salvage logging operations.
Closure order prohibiting protected areas pertaining to Paint Rock
Going into or being upon or in the area of closure (this includes all forms ofpresence, including as a pedestrian or by any and all other means)
Wilderness Closure Orders
This Forest Order is associated with Wilderness Areas limitations concerning stay duration, group size limits, mechanized equipment, camping and camping equipment.
Donley Cabin Camping Limitations
Limits to Donley Cabin exist to preserve small group opportunities in a remote setting. No overnight occupancy by more than 6 persons. No stays in the area except for 6 person limit authorized between sundown and sunrise. No discharge of firearm, air rifle, or gas gun within 500 feet of Donley…
Equestrian animals prohibited around Citico Creek
Equestrian animals are prohibited from going into or being upon the critical habitat portion of Citico Creek for the protection of threatened and endanger species.
About
Chilhowee Group Camp is located within the Chilhowee Recreation Area in Cherokee National Forest, situated near the top of Chilhowee Mountain at an elevation of 2,000 feet. This tent-only group camping area can accommodate up to 75 individuals, making it ideal for organized groups, family reunions, or scout troops. The camp features a large open area with picnic tables, grills, and fire rings, with campsites scattered through the surrounding trees. The seven-acre McKamy Lake is a short walk from the group camp, offering a swim area with a sandy beach and bank fishing. Boats are allowed on the lake, but gasoline motors are prohibited. Within the recreation area are approximately 25 miles of hiking and biking trails on the Chilhowee Trails System, plus access to a scenic waterfall. Wildlife viewing is excellent in this area. A waterless vault toilet serves the group camp year-round, while a bathhouse with flushing toilets and showers operates nearby during the main camping season, typically April through October. Drinking water is available near the entrance. Pets are permitted on leash but are not allowed on the beach.
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.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| 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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