Old Forge Campground
04 reviewsOld Forge Campground
$0.00 - $7.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$7.00
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
$7 a night to sleep next to river
About this campground
Escape into the untamed wilderness at this secluded campground nestled deep within Cherokee National Forest. Far from the crowds and connected only by winding forest roads, this remote sanctuary offers an authentic backcountry experience where the only sounds you'll hear are rustling leaves and distant bird calls. Perfect for adventurers seeking solitude and a genuine connection with nature.
Old Forge Campground is a primitive, tent-only facility with no RV or group camping options. It is ideal for campers seeking a rustic and quiet environment.
Historical SignificanceThis land holds centuries of stories within its ancient trees and hidden hollows. Once home to the Cherokee people who gave the forest its name, these mountains have witnessed the passage of early settlers, timber workers, and generations of outdoor enthusiasts who've sought refuge in these timeless woods.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the ever-changing moods of the Cherokee wilderness throughout the year. Spring brings wildflower blooms and gentle rains, while summer offers warm days perfect for exploration under the forest canopy. Fall transforms the landscape into a breathtaking tapestry of gold and crimson, and winter brings a peaceful quietude to this mountain retreat.
ElevationPerched among the rolling ridges and deep valleys that characterize the Cherokee National Forest, this campground offers the perfect vantage point for experiencing the diverse ecosystems of the Southern Appalachians, from creek bottoms to ridge tops.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a pristine wilderness where towering hardwoods create a living cathedral overhead and mountain streams carve their ancient paths through moss-covered rocks. This remote corner of Cherokee National Forest showcases nature at its most unspoiled, with dense forests stretching as far as the eye can see and wildlife roaming freely through their natural habitat.
Geological RegionSituated in the heart of the Southern Appalachian Mountains within Cherokee National Forest, this remote campground rests atop some of the oldest rock formations on Earth. The rugged terrain tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where ancient mountains have been sculpted by time into the gentle peaks and valleys that define this spectacular wilderness region.
Campsite details
Sites SizeThe campground is small, with only about 10 to 12 campsites according to user reviews. Sites are walk-in tent sites.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are described as generally quiet and secluded, especially on weekdays. Some privacy is afforded by the forested surroundings.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutnull
Open and Closed Seasonoctober 2025
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee plus additional fee of first night
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Old Forge Campground offers a range of outdoor activities suited to its remote, natural setting. Campers can enjoy hiking, water-based recreation, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to a mountain stream enhances the experience, providing both a recreational and aesthetic appeal.
Hiking
The campground provides access to trails, as noted by a user who mentioned 'trails to explore.' Specific details about trail lengths or difficulty levels are not provided.Swimming
The campground features a brisk mountain stream and a swimming or wading hole. This spot is popular with locals during warmer months, especially on weekends.Water Sports
Non-motorized water recreation like wading is available in the nearby stream.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of black bears
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.8 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
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingInformation about trash and recycling facilities is not provided.
Proximity to water featuresnull
Common complaintsnull
Hostnull
Campground Map
Driving directionsone-mile distance from the main road
Three miles down single dirt road with limited single lane accessNearby places
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Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Old Forge Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Old Forge Campground are overwhelmingly positive, with an emphasis on its secluded, peaceful atmosphere and affordability. Many highlight the pristine natural surroundings, although the remote location and lack of amenities are noted as potential drawbacks for some.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers praise the campground's quiet setting, affordability ($7 per night), and proximity to a mountain stream. Comments like 'Absolutely love it here,' and 'Well maintained with a bathroom' are...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users point out the lack of electricity, difficult access via a single-lane dirt road, and spotty cellular service. One user mentioned, 'No electricity (not even a light over the vault toilet),'...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend camping on weekdays to enjoy a quieter experience, as weekends can attract more locals. They also stress the importance of proper food storage due to black bears in the area.
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is quieter during weekdays and in the late fall, as noted in user reviews. Warmer months see increased activity in the swimming hole.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'There’s only about a dozen sites, you’re in a remote, forested part of the mountains, and it’s three miles down a single-lane dirt road to get to the nearest house.'
2. 'Tents only and a price...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites are not individually reviewed, but the campground generally has 10 to 12 sites. Visitors note the sites are well-maintained.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews do not explicitly address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025