Rock Creek Recreation Area
4.2894 reviewsRock Creek Recreation Area
$12.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
Hookup Site Fee$20.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $12/day for non-electric tent sites to $40/day for double sites with electric hookups. Basic single sites with electric hookups cost $20/day. Day use area fee is $2/day/car. America the Beautiful Pass holders receive a 50% discount on basic camping fees but not electric hookup fees.
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About this campground
Nestled beneath towering old-growth forests, Rock Creek Recreation Area offers an enchanting escape where nature's canopy provides natural air conditioning. Choose from traditional tent sites, RV spots with electric hookups, spacious double sites for group camping, or secluded walk-in tent sites for those seeking a more intimate wilderness experience. Modern bathhouses ensure comfort while you explore miles of hiking and biking trails, take refreshing dips in the historic swimming area, or gather around evening campfires during ranger-led programs that bring the forest's stories to life.
Rock Creek Recreation Area accommodates a variety of camping preferences, including RV sites with electric hookups, walk-in tent sites, and double sites. RV access is noted to be tight due to narrow roads.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time to the 1930s when young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps carved this recreational haven from the wilderness, building the charming picnic areas and the unique stream-fed swimming pool that still delights visitors today. Three decades later, the U.S. Forest Service expanded on this legacy by adding camping facilities in the 1960s, creating the beloved destination that has welcomed generations of outdoor enthusiasts.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's perfect climate control as mountain elevations deliver refreshingly cool summers while valley temperatures soar. Morning mists often dance through the trees, and afternoon showers bring the forest alive with the sound of raindrops on leaves. The humid mountain air carries the scent of rich earth and wildflowers. When winter arrives, the landscape transforms into a potential wonderland of frost and occasional snow, creating a dramatically different but equally beautiful camping experience.
ElevationPerched at an elevation that acts as nature's air conditioner, this mountain refuge offers a refreshing escape when summer heat grips the lowlands. The higher altitude creates a microclimate where temperatures can be 10-15 degrees cooler than the surrounding valleys, making it an ideal retreat for hot-weather camping.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of ancient trees where mighty oaks and maples stretch skyward, their branches intertwining with graceful hemlocks to create a living green ceiling. Native rhododendrons paint the understory with seasonal blooms, while the melodic babbling of Rock Creek provides a constant natural soundtrack. This old-growth sanctuary offers the kind of deep woods privacy that's increasingly rare, where cool mountain breezes flowing down from Unaka Mountain whisper through the leaves and provide natural relief from summer's heat.
Geological RegionDiscover the natural splendor of Cherokee National Forest, where Rock Creek Recreation Area sits cradled in the protective embrace of Unaka Mountain's foothills. This verdant landscape showcases the Southern Appalachian ecosystem at its finest, with ancient forests of oak, maple, and hemlock creating a lush tapestry punctuated by native rhododendron groves. The crystal-clear waters of Rock Creek have carved their path through this green paradise over millennia, creating the perfect setting for your outdoor adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome amenities, such as the swimming hole and campsites, are described as handicap accessible. Multiple users have confirmed accessibility features, making the campground suitable for visitors with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and level, with gravel surfaces. Many are shaded and separated by foliage, providing privacy.
Sites PrivacySites offer privacy due to the surrounding trees and foliage, which 'keep things cool' and ensure campers are not clustered together.
Total Campsites33 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLoop C is recommended for cell service and privacy. Walk-in tent sites near the trailhead to Rock Creek Falls are praised. Site recommendations suggest choosing spots based on shade and proximity to trails.
Best CampsitesSites in Loop C are mentioned for good cell service. Site #24 offers a level surface with plenty of trees.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
7:00 AM
Check-out
10:00 PM
Stay Limit
Limited to single families or up to 5 people for single sites and 10 people for double sites with a maximum of 2 vehicles per campsite.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limited to single families or up to 5 people for single sites and up to 10 people for double sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops, with Loop C noted for cell service.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 1st - October 24th
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through official U.S. Forest Service channels.
Walk-in AvailabilityBased on user reviews, walk-up availability is limited, especially during peak season, with reviews suggesting reservations should be made in advance.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy rules are provided.
Amenities available
Showers
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Rock Creek Recreation Area offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, swimming, and picnicking. The spring-fed swimming hole is a major attraction, along with trails leading into the Unaka Mountain Wilderness, including the moderate 5-mile Rock Creek Falls trail.
Hiking
Several hiking trails are available, including a rugged trail to Rock Creek Falls, which is described as moderately difficult with creek crossings and rocky terrain. Reviews praise the beauty of the falls and the trail, but some hikers note the need for proper footwear and bear spray.Swimming
The creek-fed swimming hole is a popular feature, described as 'cold and refreshing.' Some users mentioned trout swimming in the pool, but others raised concerns about algae growth and low water flow during hot weather.Biking
An easy bicycle trail is available, suitable for all levels of riders. Quiet streets within the campground also allow children to ride bikes safely.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include small game sightings and birdwatching. Fall foliage is particularly noted as a stunning visual experience.Cultural and Educational Programs
Seasonal campfire programs are offered at the amphitheater during summer months. Some users also appreciated the availability of these educational activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity requires proper food storage practices. Rocky terrain along trails may pose tripping hazards, and rattlesnakes have been sighted.
Active alertsRestrooms were reported closed due to water issues, as noted in some user reviews.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.6 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
Emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, are located in the nearby town of Erwin, TN, approximately 3 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1st - October 24th
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are present, but some reviews mention visitors improperly disposing of trash in bathroom garbage cans. Inmates from a local jail assist in trash collection and other maintenance tasks.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Rock Creek and featuring a creek-fed swimming pool. Trails lead to nearby waterfalls.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints about restroom cleanliness and maintenance, including lack of hot water, soap, and general upkeep. Narrow access roads and some noise disturbances during quiet hours are noted.
HostCamp hosts are available and generally rated positively, although one review mentioned rudeness.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom I-26 take exit 36 to Main Street in Erwin. Turn right onto Main Street, then take a left on TN 395 east for 3.5 miles to Rock Creek Recreation Area.
Road access is paved and suitable for cars and RVs. The campground is located 3.5 miles off TN 395 East from Erwin; roads may be narrow in some areas.Nearby places
Erwin (3 miles)
Nearby supplies
The town of Erwin (3 miles away) offers groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.3
94 reviews
Rock Creek Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Rock Creek Recreation Area are mixed, with many praising the campground's natural beauty, spacious and private sites, and outdoor activities. However, recurring complaints focus on the cleanliness of bathhouses and the lack of potable water.
Review Summaries
Based on 94 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include private and shaded campsites, well-maintained hiking trails, a refreshing swimming hole, and family-friendly amenities such as a playground. Several users highlighted the...
Based on 94 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include poorly maintained bathhouses, lack of soap and toilet paper, cold showers, and spotty cell phone service. Issues with trash disposal and crowded roads are also noted.
Based on 94 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing drinking water, proper hiking shoes, bear spray, and cash for self-service payment. Early arrival is suggested during peak season for better campsite options. Users also...
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Seasonal Insights
Fall is praised for beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures, while summer is noted for high humidity and frequent rain. Winter months offer quiet walks but limited camping opportunities as the...
Based on 94 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
Direct quotes include: 'This place is a hidden gem,' 'Wonderful campground but the nastiest bathhouses I have ever seen,' 'Sites are large and positioned for a private feel,' and 'The trail takes you...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites mentioned include site #36 for good cell service and site C-27, which is noted for its shaded and private location but criticized for poor bathhouse conditions.
Based on 94 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are positively reviewed, particularly the swimming hole and campsites. Users appreciated the handicap accessibility of key amenities.
Based on 94 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed on a leash, and users described meeting friendly fellow campers with pets. However, barking dogs were noted as a disturbance by some.
Based on 94 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025