CONASAUGA RIVER CAMPGROUND
Open year-round for dispersed camping on a first-come, first-served basis. Access via Forest Service Road 221, which can become difficult after storms. The area is remote with no services.
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.
Cherokee National Forest enters Stage 1 Fire Restrictions
USDA Forest Service officials initiate Stage 1 Fire Restrictions on the Cherokee National Forest beginning Friday in response to extreme fire danger due to prolonged drought. The restrictions will prohibit fires outside of developed recreation sites. Drought conditions persist across the…
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…
Access disrupted to Chilhowee Recreation Area and Forest Service Road #77
UPDATE: Construction crews closed access to Chilhowee Recreation Area for road construction and paving. This is a phased project with adjustments to Chilhowee access throughout the phases. The long-term improvement project includes installation of dumpster pads for bear-proof dumpsters and…
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
Situated along the pristine Conasauga River in the Big Frog Mountain region of Cherokee National Forest, this dispersed camping area offers a true backcountry experience for self-sufficient campers. The Conasauga River is designated as a Tennessee State Scenic River and is renowned for its exceptional water clarity and biodiversity, with at least 39 species of fish identified in the river. The nearby fish viewing and snorkeling area attracts visitors who want to observe brilliantly colored darters, minnows, and bream in their natural habitat. Access to the camping area requires traveling approximately 4.7 miles on gravel Forest Service Road 221 from the end of the pavement. The area is remote and rugged, with no developed facilities. The Conasauga River Trail #61 parallels the river and provides hiking opportunities, while the Big Frog Wilderness is just a few miles away across the state line. This location appeals to anglers, hikers, and those seeking a primitive camping experience in a scenic mountain setting.
Directions
From I-75, take exit 20 to Cleveland, TN. Follow the bypass 6.5 miles to US 64 east toward Ocoee. Drive 8 miles to Highway 411 and turn right (south). Travel 6.7 miles on US 411 and turn left onto TN 313 at Ladd Springs Road. Continue 4 miles until pavement ends, then bear right on gravel Forest Service Road 221. The dispersed camping area is along FS 221 near the Conasauga River Trail parking area at approximately 4.7 miles.
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 |
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!