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.
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
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
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