Backbone Rock Campground

Can a campground offer both a peaceful ambiance and a slice of history? Backbone Rock Campground in Shady Valley, Tennessee, does just that. Situated along the serene Beaverdam Creek at 2,100 feet elevation within the Cherokee National Forest, this compact yet feature-rich camping destination is best known for its unique proximity to the historic Backbone Rock, a tunnel once carved through solid rock for a railway—renowned as "The Shortest Tunnel in the World."

With just 10 campsites, including two double sites, Backbone Rock Campground caters to those seeking intimacy with nature. Each site is equipped with essentials like picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern holders, and the campground also offers potable water and flush toilets for added convenience. The surrounding forest provides abundant shade and privacy, while the creek is a hotspot for swimming and trout fishing. For hiking enthusiasts, the nearby Backbone Rock Trail connects to the iconic Appalachian Trail, offering ample opportunities for exploration.

Located just a short drive from Damascus, Virginia, and other outdoor hubs, the campground is ideal for weekend getaways or group events, given its reservable Civilian Conservation Corps-era pavilion. Backbone Rock Campground is not just a campsite but a gateway to East Tennessee’s rich natural beauty and cultural history, perfectly blending relaxation and adventure.