The Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic Rivers State Park's  "Gee Creek" campground is a haven and a home-away-from-home to many river users. Campsites are more tent-friendly than most.  We have a large open field that serves as overflow to the 43 campsites. Some of the campsites are close enough to the river to be lulled to sleep each night by the sound of rushing water.  An easy walk will lead you along the river's edge for fishing, nature walks or a brisk dip in the cold waters.

Gee Creek primitive campground has 43 sites, each with a table, fire ring and a grill.  Public water and a bathhouse containing sinks, commodes, and hot showers are located near the center of the campground.  Campsites are provided on a first-come, first-serve basis, and there is a fee for their use.  No reservations can be accepted and stay limit is two weeks.  The U.S. Forest Service also operates a small campground called Quinn Springs on State Highway 30.

Primitive tent camping is permissible along the John Muir State Scenic Trail, which follows the Hiwassee River Gorge from Reliance to Highway 68.  Camping is permitted all along this 12-mile trail, except for the stretch paralleling USFS Road 108 between Big Bend parking area and the TVA Appalachia powerhouse.  Several nice spring areas and rock shelters afford good campsites along this trail.

Related Activities:  Paddling, Hiking, Mountain Biking, Backpacking

Address:  Spring Creek Road, P.O. Box 5, Delano, TN 37325

Distance from Outdoor Chattanooga: 1 hour drive

Map(s) and directions: From Chattanooga take I-75 North to Cleveland/US-64 E. Exit. Travel East on US-64 to Hwy 411 North. Park is located 6 miles north of Benton. From Knoxville, take I-75 South to the Athens exit. Take Hwy 30 East to Etowah, TN. Take Hwy 411 South. Park is located 6 miles south of Etowah.

Activity type: leisure, family

Dates/Hours: Park office hours 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Website:  http://state.tn.us/environment/parks/Hiwassee/#camping