North River Campground
The campground is currently showing as closed in the Recreation.gov reservation system. First-come, first-served when open at $8 per night. Maximum 5 people and 2 vehicles per site. Bear-proof food storage required.
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…
Spring Creek Road (NFSR 27) access interruption
An access interruption is now scheduled to begin on Spring Creek Rd (NFSR 27) with Phase 1 construction work beginning September 22, 2026. This will be a two-phase closure. During Phase 1, the Spring Creek Shooting Range will be accessible from Route 315 Tellico-Reliance Rd. During Phase 2, start…
Little Gassaway Road (NFSR 45) access interruption
An access interrupted is now scheduled on the Little Gassaway Road (NFSR 45) during road construction and culvert replacement beginning Sept 28. Access to Thunder Rock Campground remains open. A temporary gate will be installed just after Thunder Rock Campground.
About
Tucked away in the North River drainage of Cherokee National Forest, North River Campground provides a rustic camping experience for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. The 11 campsites are spread along the river, each equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern post. Sites 5 and 6 sit adjacent to each other, making them perfect for families or friends who want neighboring campsites. The campground is first-come, first-served only, with no advance reservations available. Campers pay $8 per night on-site, either through the Recreation.gov Scan and Pay mobile app or by cash/check. Download the app before arrival, as cellular service is limited in this remote area. Check-in is at 2:00 PM and checkout at noon, with quiet hours enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. The North River provides excellent trout fishing and swimming holes within walking distance of camp. Bear-proof food storage is required; all food and beverages must be kept in approved containers, locked vehicles, or hard-sided campers when not in use. Vault toilets are available, but there is no potable water on-site. Nearby campgrounds offer drinking water for those who need to refill.
Directions
From Tellico Plains, take TN 165 (Cherohala Skyway) east for approximately 5 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 210, passing the Ranger Station, and continue for about 10 miles. Turn left onto Forest Road 217 (North River Road) and proceed approximately 3 miles upstream to the campground.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $8 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (423) 476-9700 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
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