Dennis Cove Campground
Closed for the season. The campground typically operates from late April through mid-October. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.
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
Dennis Cove Campground is a secluded, rustic campground located along the scenic Laurel Fork Creek at an elevation of 2,650 feet in Carter County, within Cherokee National Forest. This remote developed campground features 15 campsites, including two double sites, making it an excellent choice for families and those seeking a peaceful mountain retreat. The campground's high elevation, creekside setting, and lush forest canopy provide natural cooling during hot summer months. Laurel Fork Creek offers excellent fishing opportunities, with rainbow trout stocked below the campground and wild brown, rainbow, and brook trout in the creek and tributaries above the campground. The Laurel Fork Trail follows the creek upstream for 8.0 miles with 26 stream crossings, providing a challenging and scenic hiking experience. The Coon Den Falls Trail trailhead is located adjacent to the campground, and the iconic Appalachian National Scenic Trail can be accessed approximately one mile west on Dennis Cove Road or at the top of the Coon Den Falls Trail. Access to the campground requires navigating Dennis Cove Road, a steep and winding forest road with hairpin turns and switchbacks. Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern holder. The campground has flush toilets and drinking water available from faucets. Campers should be aware they are in bear country and must follow food storage requirements. The campground gate closes at 10:00 p.m. and reopens at 7:00 a.m., with alcohol prohibited on site.
Directions
Take US 321/TN 67 East out of Hampton, TN. Turn right onto Dennis Cove Road (Forest Road 50) and drive approximately 5 miles. Dennis Cove Road is steep with hairpin turns and switchbacks, so plan to drive slowly.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $10 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| wataugarec@gmail.com | |
| Phone | +1 (423) 735-1500 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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