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.
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
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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