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

Dennis Cove Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. The campground typically operates from late April through mid-October. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

Scioto Shooting Range Safety Closure December 30

Forest Service staff plan to conduct hazard tree mitigation at the Scioto Shooting Range on December 30.  The range will be closed on December 30 while crews address hazardous trees at the site.  Shooting will not be allowed at Scioto Shooting Range on December 30.

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.

Roan Mountain Fire Restrictions

Fire Restrictions Continue Along the Appalachian Trail

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

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

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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