Big Oak Cove Campground
4.3011 reviewsnull
Big Oak Cove Campground
$3.00 - $9.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees for campsites vary based on reservation methods: $8 if made online, $9 through the contact center, $3 for in-person reservations.
About this campground
Escape to Big Oak Cove Campground, where the whisper of wind through ancient trees and the gentle murmur of the Tellico River create nature's perfect symphony. This hidden gem offers 11 primitive campsites thoughtfully tucked into a secluded forest setting, each furnished with the essentials for authentic outdoor living—a sturdy picnic table for riverside meals, a fire ring for evening gatherings, and a lantern post to guide your way under starlit skies. Beloved by anglers who know these waters hold some of Tennessee's finest trout, Big Oak Cove promises the kind of profound quiet that modern life rarely affords.
Big Oak Cove Campground supports a variety of camping preferences, though the options are basic. It is ideal for primitive tent camping and can also accommodate small RVs, as noted in user reviews. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Historical SignificanceWhile Big Oak Cove may not boast ancient ruins or historic battlefields, its significance lies in something equally precious—serving as a timeless sanctuary where generations of families have created their own histories around crackling campfires and along quiet river bends. This unspoiled corner of the Cherokee National Forest continues a tradition of simple pleasures and natural connection that feels increasingly rare in our modern world.
Weather and SeasonsBig Oak Cove enjoys a climate that outdoor enthusiasts dream about—consistently dry conditions paired with comfortable temperatures that make camping a pleasure rather than a challenge. Summer arrives with warmth that invites swimming in the river's cool pools, while minimal rainfall ensures your adventures won't be dampened by unexpected storms. These ideal weather patterns create perfect conditions for everything from dawn fishing expeditions to lazy afternoon hammock sessions beneath the forest canopy.
ElevationNestled at a comfortable elevation within the rolling terrain of the Cherokee National Forest, Big Oak Cove provides the perfect balance of accessibility and mountain atmosphere. The campground's position creates natural air circulation that keeps summer nights refreshingly cool and provides stunning vantage points for watching morning mist rise from the river valley.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Cherokee National Forest at Big Oak Cove, where towering hardwoods and evergreens create a living cathedral overhead. The star attraction flows right past your campsite—the crystal-clear Tellico River, its cool mountain waters dancing over smooth stones and creating peaceful pools perfect for wading or casting a line. This pristine landscape offers endless discoveries, from delicate wildflowers carpeting the forest floor to the occasional glimpse of deer stepping silently through morning shadows.
Geological RegionBig Oak Cove rests within the magnificent Cherokee National Forest, a geological wonderland where ancient mountains meet pristine waterways. The campground showcases the region's signature feature—the cool, clear waters of the Tellico River, which has carved its path through these hills for millennia. Dense forest ecosystems thrive in this temperate mountain environment, creating a rich tapestry of biodiversity that surrounds campers with the authentic wilderness experience of the Southern Appalachians.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo detailed information about specific accessibility features is provided.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as level, with no further details on specific sizes.
Sites PrivacySites appear to offer some privacy, as the campground is described as being 'secluded by trees,' offering a natural and peaceful setting.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommendations include being prepared for primitive camping conditions and fishing as a primary activity.
Best CampsitesSpecific best campsites were not mentioned.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No check-in times were specified.
Check-out
No check-out time was specified.
Stay Limit
Stay limits were not mentioned in the authoritative information provided.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guest limits were not specified in the sources.
Groups
There is no information about designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 11 individual sites equipped with picnic amenities and is described as secluded by trees.
Open and Closed SeasonSeasonal closures were implied in user reviews, e.g., “It is gated and closed for the season. Hopefully will reopen in April 2020.”
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, including the app or contact center. Scan & Pay is available for first-come, first-served payments.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis campground is primarily first-come, first-served, with Scan & Pay options for securing a site upon physical arrival.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation fees vary: $10 for changes or cancellations, forfeiture of first night's fees for cancellations made after the cut-off period. No refunds permitted for Scan & Pay transactions.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Big Oak Cove Campground is well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts, offering popular activities like fishing and relaxing by the river. Located on the Tellico River, the campground is an excellent base for anglers, with reviews highlighting the quality of trout fishing. Other user reviews emphasize the peace and quiet of the setting, making it a good location for unwinding outdoors.
Fishing
Fishing is a major draw at Big Oak Cove Campground. The campground's proximity to the Tellico River provides opportunities for catching trout, which is explicitly mentioned in user reviews as a highlight of the area.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned, although one review notes that the campground 'is gated and closed for the season' during winter.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Specific fire policies were not articulated.
- Quiet hours were not detailed in the authoritative information.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include limited cellular service, reliance on unpaved roads, and proximity to wildlife. Reviewers mention “camping restrooms” which may imply limited amenities.
Active alertsNo active alerts or advisories were indicated.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7 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
Closest emergency services are likely in Tellico Plains, though specific details on hospitals and police stations are unavailable.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak seasons were not explicitly mentioned.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details are provided about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located right by the Tellico River, making it ideal for fishing and enjoying river sounds.
Common complaintsNo recurring complaints were noted, but reviews mentioned closures during certain seasons.
HostInformation about campground hosts was not provided.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Tellico Plains - turn onto TN 165 for approximately 5 miles, turn right onto FR 210 going past Ranger Station. Campground will be approximately 17 miles upstream.
The campground is located on Tellico River Road (FS Rd 210), accessible via TN 165 and FR 210. The roads are described as unpaved and remote, with limited services.Nearby places
Tellico Plains (approximately 22 miles away)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies likely available in Tellico Plains, approximately 22 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
11 reviews
Big Oak Cove Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Big Oak Cove Campground are overwhelmingly positive, frequently mentioning the campground's cleanliness, tranquility, and proximity to the Tellico River. Many reviewers highlight the natural beauty and secluded setting.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Cleanliness, peaceful environment, proximity to Tellico River, quality trout fishing, and level campsites are commonly praised.
Based on 11 reviewsCommon Concerns
No significant complaints are evident, though one review expressed a wish for the campground to remain tent-only.
Based on 11 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a campsite due to the first-come, first-served policy. Download the Recreation.gov mobile app before arriving since cell service may be limited.
Based on 11 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground is closed during winter, reopening in April. Summer and fall are noted as ideal times for enjoying fishing and the river.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'My Boyfriend & I absolutely l❤️VE this campground. It's literally our favorite camping spot...very clean.' - Rhonda Rymer
2. 'Primitive camping but small RVs ok. Good trout fishing in Tellico...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites are described as level and adjacent to the river, enhancing the camping experience. There is no detailed information about individual site numbers.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews explicitly address accessibility features.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews or comments address pet policies or pet-friendliness.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025