Tumbling Creek Campground
Open year-round. First-come, first-served with no reservations. No restrooms or potable water available. Food must be stored in bear-proof containers.
Heat Advisory issued July 1 at 2:01PM 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
Tumbling Creek Campground is a peaceful, remote primitive campground with 8 sites nestled along the banks of Tumbling Creek near Ocoee #3 Lake in the Big Frog Mountain area of Cherokee National Forest. This free campground offers a true backcountry camping experience with no amenities such as restrooms, potable water, or picnic tables. Campers should come fully self-sufficient and prepared to pack out all trash. The location provides convenient access to outstanding recreational opportunities. The Ocoee Whitewater Center's Tanasi trail complex offers many miles of trails at various difficulty levels for mountain bikers and hikers. For those seeking solitude, the Big Frog Wilderness trails are nearby, with some trails climbing to altitudes above 4,000 feet and rewarding hikers with panoramic mountain views and wildlife sightings. Fishing is available at nearby Ocoee #3 Lake. Bear activity is present in the area, and all food and beverages must be stored in an approved bear-proof container, a locked vehicle, or hard-sided camper at all times unless being consumed or prepared. Each site is limited to a maximum of 5 people and 2 vehicles. Horses and pack animals are not permitted.
Directions
From Ocoee Ranger Station: Take Highway 64 east approximately 10.9 miles to Ocoee Power House #3, turn right, follow Forest Service Road 45 about 2.9 miles to FS 221, turn left, campground located 6.9 miles ahead on the left.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| 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 | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (423) 476-9700 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| USFS Tumbling Creek Campground |
Photos
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