Entrance Sign at Dennis Cove Campground

Dennis Cove Campground

Open

Open for the 2026 season from April 27 through October 13. Reservations available via Recreation.gov. Gate hours are 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. Potable water is not available; campers must bring their own water supply. 14-day consecutive stay limit.

Heat Advisory issued July 1 at 2:01PM EDT until July 3 at 9:00PM EDT by NWS Morristown TN

2:01 PM — July 2nd, 4:15 AM

* WHAT...Afternoon heat index values will approach or exceed 100 at times over all but the higher elevations, and some valley locations may see heat index values exceed 105. * WHERE...Portions of southwest North Carolina, east Tennessee, and southwest Virginia. * WHEN...Until 9 PM EDT /8 PM CDT/ Friday. * IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses.

Cherokee National Forest

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…

Cherokee National Forest

Warden Field (Citico Campsite #14) Limited to day use

Warden Field on the Tellico Ranger District is now limited to day use only.  It is unlawful to enter or remain at Citico Campsite #14 (Warden Field) during the night period from 10p.m. to 6a.m. of every day during the time period of the 12th of May, 2026 through the 8th of September, 2026.

About

Dennis Cove Campground is a secluded mountain retreat in Carter County, Tennessee, nestled along the beautiful Laurel Fork Creek within the Cherokee National Forest. At 2,650 feet elevation, the creekside location and dense forest canopy make it especially appealing during hot summer months. The campground offers 15 sites total, including 13 single sites (one tent-only) and two double sites, each equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern holder. Laurel Fork Creek is stocked with rainbow trout below the campground, while upstream waters are managed as wild trout streams supporting brown, rainbow, and brook trout. The Laurel Fork Trail follows the creek for 8 miles with 26 stream crossings. The Appalachian Trail can be accessed about a mile west on Dennis Cove Road, and the Coon Den Falls Trail begins adjacent to the campground. This is bear country. All food, trash, and scented items must be stored in bear-resistant containers, locked hard-sided vehicles, or suspended at least 12 feet off the ground and 6 feet from tree limbs. Non-compliance results in citations. Alcohol is prohibited throughout the campground.

Directions

From US 321/TN 67 in Hampton, turn onto Dennis Cove Road (Forest Road 50) and travel 5.0 miles. The road is steep and winding with switchbacks; plan to drive slowly.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi No
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store No
Price $10 - $20

Vehicle

Max RV Length
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Email wataugarec@gmail.com
Phone +1 (423) 735-1500

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

Availability

Photos

Entrance Sign at Dennis Cove Campground
Laurel Fork at Dennis Cove Campground
Laurel Fork at Dennis Cove Campground
Dennis Cove Campground

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