PAINT CREEK DISPERSED CAMPSITES
Open — Open year-round for dispersed camping in designated sites only. No fee required. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited along Paint Creek Corridor.
Access disruption south of Parksville Lake for Culvert Replacement
The Forest Service plans to begin work Dec. 31, 2025 that will disrupt access to Indian Creek Road (NFSR 302) on the Cherokee National Forest south of Parksville Lake in Polk County. Access will be disrupted while 100 culverts are replaced.
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.
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
Paint Creek Dispersed Campsites are scattered along the scenic Paint Creek Corridor in Greene County, Tennessee, within Cherokee National Forest. Forest Road 41 runs alongside Paint Creek for five miles, connecting Paint Creek Campground to the French Broad River. The corridor sits at approximately 1,760 feet elevation in a mountain cove setting. The area offers excellent opportunities for trout fishing during summer months when Paint Creek is stocked, as well as fly fishing year-round. Popular activities include scenic driving, road cycling, and hiking. Visitors can access overlooks to view Kelly and Dudley Falls, explore a warm water fishing pond, and enjoy the mountain scenery. Dispersed camping is permitted only in designated sites along the corridor. Campers must be self-sufficient as there are no facilities, restrooms, or potable water available at the dispersed sites. This is a primitive camping experience where visitors should pack in all supplies and pack out all trash. The remote location provides a quiet escape for those seeking a backcountry experience while remaining accessible by vehicle along the forest road.
Directions
From Greeneville, take TN 70 south for 11.2 miles. Turn right on Rollins Chapel Road and follow signs to Paint Creek Campground, then turn right onto Forest Road 41 (Paint Creek Road). From Newport, turn left on TN 107 and travel 10.1 miles. Turn right at Rollins Chapel Road and follow signs to Paint Creek Campground.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (423) 476-9700 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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