Chilhowee Recreation Area

Carved into the rugged beauty of the Cherokee National Forest, Chilhowee Recreation Area Campground stands as a haven for adventurers, offering unrivaled access to cascading waterfalls, tranquil lakes, and miles of scenic trails. Ideal for both tent campers and RV travelers, this campground's highlights include its proximity to Benton Falls, the serene McKamy Lake with a swimming beach, and panoramic mountain vistas from its observation points.

The campground features over 70 campsites, including options with electric hookups, spread across shaded loops surrounded by hardwood and pine forests. Amenities such as bathhouses with warm showers, flush toilets, and potable water stations ensure a comfortable stay, while a designated RV dump station and picnic areas cater to camper convenience. With direct access to 25 miles of hiking and biking trails, opportunities abound for exploration, from the moderate 1.5-mile Benton Falls Trail to wildlife viewing along the Chilhowee trail system.

Located just a 24-minute drive from Cleveland, Tennessee, and perched at 2,000 feet elevation, the campground offers a peaceful retreat while placing you a short drive from whitewater rafting on the Ocoee and Hiwassee Rivers. Its blend of natural splendor and thoughtful amenities makes it a perfect destination for weekend getaways or longer escapes into Tennessee’s Appalachian wilderness.