Camping at Chilhowee Group Camp Campground

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Overview

Chilhowee Group Camp is located in the Cherokee National Forest, which spans 650,000 acres across eastern Tennessee. As one of the most prominent group camping locations, it offers visitors large campsites suited for group activities, family reunions, or scouting events. The campground is a part of the Chilhowee Recreation Area that sits on top of Chilhowee Mountain, providing breathtaking views over the western side of the park.

Location and Access

Chilhowee Group Camp is accessible from US-64 near Parksville Lake. The lake is also known as Ocoee Lake, renowned for its whitewater rafting opportunities, especially since it hosted the 1996 Olympic whitewater events. Chilhowee Group Camp can also be accessed via Oswald Road. The actual campground is typically marked, but road signs may not explicitly state "group camp," so it's beneficial to look at a map or use GPS navigation to find it.

Facilities and Capacity

Group Campsite(s): Chilhowee Group Camp offers developed group sites that can accommodate multiple tents and a large number of campers. The sites are spacious for group activities and gatherings.
Picnic Areas: Picnic tables are available at each group site for meals and socializing.
Fire Rings: Each group site typically has a fire ring for campfires, subject to local fire regulations.
Grills: There may also be grilling facilities for cooking.
Restrooms: There are usually vault toilets available at the group camp; however, availability and condition can vary.

Campers should be aware that there might not be hookups for RVs or trailers at the group camp, and it is primarily designed for tent camping.

Activities and Attractions

Hiking: There are hiking trails adjacent to the Chilhowee Recreation Area, including the 7-mile Chilhowee Trail System.
Biking: Some trails are also open to mountain biking.
Swimming: A day-use area with a lake for swimming is often available, with a sandy beach and designated swimming area.
Fishing: Parksville Lake and other nearby streams are popular for fishing.
Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife, and visitors might see deer, birds, and possibly even bear.
Scenic Viewing: The Benton Falls Trail leads to a beautiful 65-foot waterfall, and there are numerous overlooks with stunning views, such as the one at the Chilhowee Day Use Area.

Group Usage and Reservations

The group camp is designed for organized groups rather than individual family camping. Reservations are typically required, potentially far in advance during peak seasons. The best way to secure a spot is to book online through the official reservation system for national forests or call the forest district's office for more information.

Rules and Regulations

Fire Safety: Open flames and campfires need to follow the forest's fire guidelines, which adjust according to conditions and seasons.
Wildlife Precautions: Proper food storage is crucial to deter wildlife, especially bears that are native to the area.
Noise and Conduct: There may be rules governing noise levels and general conduct to ensure all visitors enjoy their experience.
Leave No Trace: Campers are expected to pack out what they pack in and leave the campsite in good condition for the next group.

Season and Climate

The camping season at Chilhowee Group Camp usually runs from early spring to late fall. The campground may close in winter due to snow and cold temperatures. Due to its higher elevation, temperatures at Chilhowee can be significantly cooler than in lower surrounding areas, so visitors should prepare appropriately for the season.