Located in the Cherokee National Forest, the Chilhowee Recreation Area is an excellent hub for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, camping and wildlife viewing. The 7-acre McKamy Lake offers a swimming area with a sandy beach, fishing from the bank and flatwater paddling opportunities. There are 25 miles of hiking and biking trails, including the easy 1.5-mile trail to Benton Falls. Wildlife is abundant in the recreation area and scenic overlooks on the drive up the mountain provide great sunset views of Parksville lake (pictured), so have your camera ready and tread lightly.

Chilhowee Campground offers more than 70 campsites, electric hookups, RV sites, tent only sites, and multiple bathhouses with warm showers.  The Campground is open from early April to late October, with an overflow area and day use area open year-round. The recreation area is in close proximity to Parksville Lake (Ocoee Lake), the Ocoee River, Big Frog Wilderness, the Tanasi trail system at the Ocoee Whitewater Center, and the Hiwassee River.

Reservations can be made for Chilhowee Group Camp and individual sites at Loops A, B, E, and F.  To make a reservation, please call 1-877-444-6777 or online at www.recreation.gov.

Directions

Google Maps

Difficulty

Hiking

Running

Biking

Paddling

Guides

Campground Map

Trail Map

Hours and Cost

Open Daily: Early April-Late October, Sunrise to Sunset

Cost: Day use, $3/vehicle. Camping varies based on site amenities and length of stay.

Make a Reservation

Pet Friendly

Yes, on a leash. However, pets not allowed on the beach.

Contact

Ocoee Ranger District

3171 Highway 64
Benton, TN 37307
423-338-330