CITICO CREEK DISPERSED CAMPSITES
Open — Open year-round for dispersed camping on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations or permits required.
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
Citico Creek Dispersed Campsites offer primitive camping experiences along Forest Road 35 in the Cherokee National Forest's Tellico Ranger District. The campsites are spread along Citico Creek Road, with the creek stocked with rainbow trout from March 15 through September 15, while wild brown, rainbow, and brook trout inhabit the rugged tributaries year-round. The area provides access to nearly 22,000 acres of wilderness, including the Citico Creek Wilderness, with opportunities for solitude and backcountry exploration. These dispersed sites are suitable for small to medium RVs, vans, and tent camping. The area is remote and primitive, requiring campers to be self-sufficient. Nearby attractions include the Little Citico Horse Trail system, Falls Branch Falls, and developed campgrounds like Jake Best. The main access is via Citico Creek Road from either Tellico Plains (approximately 28 miles) or Vonore (approximately 19 miles). This is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out area with no amenities.
Directions
From Tellico Plains, take TN-165 east, then turn onto Forest Road 35 (Citico Creek Road). Dispersed campsites are located along this road. From Vonore, access via Forest Road 35 heading south. The area is approximately 19 miles from Vonore and 28 miles from Tellico Plains.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (423) 476-9700 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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