Mcnabb Creek Group
4.086 reviews250 Ranger Station Rd, Tellico Plains, TN, 37385, USA
Mcnabb Creek Group
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$30.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Reservation fees are $30 per night for the Group Standard Nonelectric site. Additional cancellation fees apply: $10 cancellation fee, potential late cancellation penalties (loss of the first night's recreation use fee).
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About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Cherokee National Forest, McNabb Creek Group Campground offers an intimate escape along the pristine waters of the North River in eastern Tennessee. This hidden gem welcomes groups of 10 to 60 adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience far from the crowds. Days here unfold with the gentle rhythm of the river - cast a line for native trout, take a refreshing dip in crystal-clear swimming holes, or explore miles of hiking trails that wind through ancient forests. When autumn arrives, the surrounding woodlands transform into prime hunting grounds for those with proper permits and a keen eye.
McNabb Creek Group Campground is a group camping facility in a natural and secluded setting.
Historical SignificanceAs Tennessee's sole national forest, Cherokee National Forest stands as a living testament to both natural wonder and human heritage. These ancient mountains once echoed with the footsteps of the Cherokee people, whose deep connection to this land resonates through every creek and ridge. The forest's designation as protected land ensures that future generations can experience the same awe-inspiring biodiversity and cultural richness that has defined these Southern Appalachian slopes for millennia.
Weather and SeasonsWinter wraps McNabb Creek in a crystalline embrace, with temperatures dancing between a brisk 32°F at dawn and a mild 46°F by afternoon. These cooler months bring their own magic - morning mist rising from the river, frost painting delicate patterns on tent walls, and the possibility of snow dusting the surrounding peaks. While rain and snow showers pass through regularly, they only add to the campground's wild charm. Moderate winds whisper through the trees, carrying the fresh scent of pine and the promise of adventure.
ElevationPerched within a dramatic mountain landscape, McNabb Creek sits in a region where elevations sweep from gentle foothills at 750 feet to soaring peaks that kiss the sky at 5,500 feet. This varied terrain creates distinct microclimates and ecosystems, offering campers a chance to experience multiple mountain environments within a single adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryThe North River serves as McNabb Creek's liquid lifeline, its waters tumbling down from the heights to join the mighty Tellico River below. This rushing waterway carves through a tapestry of dense hardwood and evergreen forests, creating a sanctuary for an astounding array of life. Home to more than 20,000 species of plants and animals, the surrounding Cherokee National Forest reveals new wonders with each visit - from delicate wildflowers carpeting the forest floor to black bears foraging in distant meadows, and from tiny salamanders hiding beneath moss-covered logs to majestic birds of prey circling overhead.
Geological RegionMcNabb Creek rests in the embrace of the legendary Smoky Mountains, where the ancient Cherokee National Forest blankets the rugged peaks and valleys of eastern Tennessee's Southern Appalachians. This geological wonderland showcases elevations that climb from peaceful valley floors at 750 feet to windswept summits reaching 5,500 feet, each level revealing distinct rock formations, plant communities, and breathtaking vistas shaped by millions of years of natural forces.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were highlighted in the source materials. The campground has portable toilets and picnic tables, but there is no mention of ADA-compliant facilities.
Sites SizeThe group site can accommodate 10 to 60 people.
Sites PrivacyThe site is described as secluded, allowing privacy for group events. One review stated, "secluded enough we didn’t hear or see any other campers."
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe site is recommended for large groups seeking seclusion and proximity to nature, such as the North River's stream.
Best CampsitesThe campground has only one group site, accommodating all visitors.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Standard check-in begins at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Standard check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay: 13 nights. Maximum total stay within rolling 30 days: 13 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group site accommodates 10-60 people.
Groups
The group site accommodates 10-60 people and is equipped with picnic tables, campfire rings, and portable toilets.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of a single group site with picnic tables and grills.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from January 22, 2025, to December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through Recreation.gov online, contact center, or mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit mention of walk-up availability; reservations are required for group sites.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations (within 14 days) forfeit the first night's recreation fee. For details, changes require a $10 modification fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to McNabb Creek Group Campground can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including fishing, swimming, hiking, hunting, and wildlife viewing. The area also offers opportunities for stargazing, horseback riding, and scenic drives.
Hiking
Local trails offer hiking opportunities. Specific trail details (difficulty, length) are not provided in the source materials.Fishing
The North River provides fishing opportunities. Types of fish are not specified.Swimming
Swimming is available in the North River.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible in the area, as the Cherokee National Forest is home to over 20,000 species of plants and animals.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are detailed, but the campground is part of a region with seasonal hunting.Water Sports
No specific non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are detailed.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but 'Don't Move Firewood' guidelines must be adhered to. Firewood should be locally sourced to prevent pest spread.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity requires secure food storage. No water or electricity is available on-site. Portable toilets availability may vary, and one user review mentioned poor toilet conditions.
Active alertsNo active alerts noted.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest phones are located about 3 miles away in Green Cove. Emergency services, including hospitals or police stations, are not explicitly detailed.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 22, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingVisitors are required to 'pack it in, pack it out.' Bear-resistant trash receptacles are available.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated directly along the North River, offering fishing and swimming opportunities.
Common complaintsIssues include poor communication regarding gate lock combinations, subpar toilet conditions, and difficulty accessing the campground due to gate issues.
HostHost presence or contact details are not explicitly mentioned.
Campground Map
250 Ranger Station Rd, Tellico Plains, TN, 37385, USA
Driving directionsFrom I-75 in Sweetwater, Tennessee, take State Route 68 to Tellico Plains. Turn left onto Highway 165 for 6 miles. Turn right onto Forest Development Road 210 (Tellico River Road) for 10 miles. Turn left onto 217 (North River Road). The camp is located 2 miles on the left.
The campground is accessible from paved roads until North River Road, which may pose navigation challenges for larger vehicles. Seasonal closures or terrain challenges are not explicitly noted, but users should be aware of remote access.Nearby places
Tellico Plains (20 miles, about 30 minutes travel time)
Nearby supplies
Tellico Plains, less than 20 miles away, has groceries, arts and crafts stores, and other basic supplies. Nearby towns or facilities for camping supplies and fuel are not explicitly mentioned.
Camper Reviews
4.1
6 reviews
Mcnabb Creek Group is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, the campground has a rating of 4.0 out of 5 and is described as suitable for group events and nature lovers. The site's seclusion and natural setting were highlighted, but some concerns were raised about access and facility conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the seclusion, natural surroundings, and value for money. One user stated, "Everything was great it was a large accommodating space and secluded enough we didn’t hear or see any...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Access issues were a recurring concern, with some users unable to get the gate combination. One review mentioned, "We arrived but weren't able to get in. I was not able to reach anyone to get access...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should ensure they have the gate combination ahead of time and bring garbage bags due to the 'pack it in, pack it out' policy. Planning for no access to water or electricity is also essential.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
No specific seasonal variations in reviews were highlighted. However, the campground supports seasonal activities like hunting.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "It was completely in nature like they wanted, away from the crowds, and close to the stream." 2. "The ONLY issue we had, is that we were not given a gate combination in advance like our email...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 in Loop MCNA received positive mentions, with one user rating it 5 stars. Another noted, "Everything was great."
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews were found specifically addressing accessibility features.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific user reviews addressed pet-related experiences.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025