Rough Ridge Campground
Currently showing as closed despite normally operating year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect across Cherokee National Forest; campfires remain permitted within designated fire rings at developed sites.
Heat Advisory issued July 2 at 12:00AM EDT until July 3 at 9:00PM EDT by NWS Morristown TN
* WHAT...Afternoon heat index values will approach or exceed 100 at times over all but the higher elevations, and some valley locations may see heat index values exceed 105. * WHERE...Portions of southwest North Carolina, East Tennessee, and southwest Virginia. * WHEN...Until 9 PM EDT /8 PM CDT/ Friday. * IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses.
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…
Warden Field (Citico Campsite #14) Limited to day use
Warden Field on the Tellico Ranger District is now limited to day use only. It is unlawful to enter or remain at Citico Campsite #14 (Warden Field) during the night period from 10p.m. to 6a.m. of every day during the time period of the 12th of May, 2026 through the 8th of September, 2026.
About
Rough Ridge Campground is one of two group campgrounds located along the scenic Tellico River in Cherokee National Forest. Situated about 17 miles upstream from the Tellico Ranger Station via Forest Road 210, the campground provides a rustic camping experience in Tennessee's Appalachian backcountry. Each site comes equipped with two picnic tables, two lantern posts, and a grill/fire ring. The campground can accommodate camping trailers up to 26 feet in length, with parking for up to four vehicles per site. Vault toilets are available on-site, but there is no potable water; campers should bring their own drinking water or obtain it from nearby campgrounds. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis only with no advance reservations. Payment can be made on-site via cash, check, or QR code scan using the Recreation.gov mobile app. Interagency Senior/Access passes provide a 50% discount for the site occupied by the pass holder.
Directions
From Tellico Plains, turn onto TN 165 for approximately 5 miles, turn right onto Forest Road 210 going past the Ranger Station. The campground is approximately 17 miles upstream.
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | — |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $10 - $20 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 26ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 26ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (423) 397-8455 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Community Posts
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