Old Forge Campground
Open for the 2026 season from March 15 through December 15, weather permitting. First-come, first-served only. No potable water available on site.
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
Old Forge Campground is a small, primitive tent campground nestled along Jennings Creek in the Cherokee National Forest. The site features large walk-in tent sites screened by native vegetation, offering a secluded camping experience. In the early 1900s, this location was an active iron forge where ore was smelted and processed into materials for the railroad operations that harvested timber throughout the region. This is a true primitive camping destination with vault toilets but no potable water. Campers must bring their own drinking water and store food in bear-proof containers. Alcohol is prohibited, and horses are not permitted in the campground. Group size is limited to 5 people and 2 vehicles per site. The campground is accessed via Forest Road 331, which dead-ends at the site. From Greeneville, take TN 107 east for 6 miles to Horse Creek Recreation Area, then turn right onto FR 331 for 3 miles.
Directions
From Greeneville, take TN 107 east (off US 11E) for 6 miles, then follow signs to Horse Creek Recreation Area (approximately 2 miles). Turn right onto Forest Road 331 for 3 miles. The road dead-ends at the campground.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $7 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (423) 638-4109 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| View on Recreation.gov | |
| USFS Old Forge Recreation Area |
Availability
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