Beauty Spot Boondocking in Unicoi, TN – Off-Grid Camping and Scenic Views

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Beauty Spot Boondocking in Unicoi, TN
Off-Grid Camping and Scenic Views

Previous Reviews:

Beauty Spot Boondocking: Parking lot camping near the trail. Great spot that requires a short uphill hike, maybe a few hundred feet to 3/4 camp sites. We had a very large group come through while staying over night, but once they left it was nice and peaceful with great views from the bald. No facilities on site.

About This Location

If you’re after a remote camping spot with killer views in Unicoi, TN, Beauty Spot boondocking area could be just the ticket for boondocking. Beauty Spot boondocking area sits quietly on Unaka Mountain, where you can camp without hookups, tucked into the woods with easy access to hiking trails like the Appalachian Trail. It’s a solid pick if you want to soak up nature without the crowds or a lot of fuss.

The area’s a mix of rolling hills and mountain scenery—ideal for simple camping and some time outdoors. You can drive in, but the roads aren’t exactly smooth, so keep that in mind. Whether you’ve got a little camper or just a tent, this spot lets you unplug and breathe for a while.

Key Takeaways

• You can camp without permits right on Unaka Mountain.
• The area’s drivable, but the roads get rough and unpaved.
• Hiking trails and scenic views are close, so there’s plenty to do.

Beauty Spot Boondocking In Unicoi, TN

When you camp at the Beauty Spot boondocking area, you’re deep in the Cherokee National Forest, in the Nolichucky/Unaka Ranger District. It’s quiet out here, surrounded by thick woods and rolling hills.

The Beauty Spot boondocking area sits up on Unaka Mountain, so you get those mountain views and, honestly, some pretty refreshing air—especially when it’s chilly. Wildlife’s everywhere: deer, birds, you name it.

You won’t find hookups or facilities. Bring all your own water and supplies. Even though campers like this spot, it still feels off the beaten path because of all that forest.

You can drive right up to the access point, so you don’t have to haul your stuff far. Trails nearby link up with the Appalachian Trail, making day hikes or just wandering around super easy.

This Beauty Spot boondocking area’s for folks who want to get into nature without any frills. You’ll want to stick to Leave No Trace so the place stays nice for everyone.

Things To Do

The Beauty Spot boondocking area’s got a handful of outdoor activities. Hiking is big here, with trails that hit sections of the Appalachian Trail. You’ll wander through woods and probably spot some wildflowers along the way.

The Unaka Mountain Overlook is a nice place for a picnic. Bring your food, kick back, and just take in those mountain views and fresh air.

Fishing is an option in nearby ponds if you want something low-key. Hunting’s allowed during the right seasons—just double-check local rules if you’re thinking about it.

You might stumble across some small waterfalls while hiking. The scenery is peaceful, and honestly, it’s a great place for photos or just a quiet walk.

There are even basketball and tennis courts nearby if you want to switch things up from hiking or hanging by the water.

Directions

To get to Beauty Spot Boondocking in Unicoi, TN, take Interstate 26 to Exit 36 for Erwin.

If you’re coming from the north, turn left onto Harris Hollow Road at the end of the ramp. Stay on it until you hit a stoplight.

At that light, hang a right onto North Main Avenue in Erwin. Keep following the road as it heads toward Unaka Mountain.

From the Unicoi side, use Highway 107 and turn onto Red Fork Road. The pavement eventually gives way to gravel—when that happens, you’re getting close to the camping area.

You can also get there from Erwin by taking Rock Creek Road, which leads to the trails and camping spots around Beauty Spot.

Watch out for rough spots on those gravel roads—they can get pretty uneven.

A GPS or map app helps, but these directions should get you to the right area near the Appalachian Trail and Unaka Mountain.

Parking and camping are informal here, so just be ready for backcountry conditions.

Vehicle Access

You can drive to Beauty Spot Boondocking using Unaka Mountain Road. The road reopened recently after repairs, so it’s open for most vehicles now.

The surface flips from paved to gravel as you get closer. Some parts are rough, so if you’ve got a low-clearance car, take it easy.

From Unicoi, take Highway 107, then Red Fork Road, and keep going until you hit gravel. If you’re coming from Erwin, Rock Creek Road gets you there.

A few sections of Unaka Mountain Road were closed as of May 2024, but they’re open again. Still, it’s smart to check local updates before you head out.

Parking isn’t official, but there’s enough space for cars, trucks, and small RVs. If you’ve got a bigger rig, just be careful on the steep or narrow bits.

You’ll find parking near the main overlook and camping spots—no marked lots or paved areas, though.

RV And Camping Trailer Information

If you’re camping with an RV or trailer at the Beauty Spot boondocking area, expect primitive camping. No hookups for water, electricity, or sewer. You have to be self-contained and bring everything you need.

Camping here is dispersed—there aren’t marked or developed sites. You’ll usually find a spot for your RV or trailer near a small hill on the north end of the parking area. It’s mostly level, but not perfectly flat everywhere.

Tenting works too, but bigger RVs and trailers should check if there’s enough clearance and space before you commit. The roads are unpaved but manageable for most vehicles.

There aren’t any cabins or structures to rent at the Beauty Spot boondocking area. You’ll need your own shelter and gear. It’s a great place if you want a quiet, wooded spot away from packed campgrounds.

What to bring for your RV or trailer trip:

• Fresh water or a full tank
• Portable power or a generator (if you need it)
• Waste storage for gray and black water
• Basic camping gear (chairs, grills, the usual)
• Extra fuel and some tools, just in case

Winters can get cold up here, so prep your rig for it. This place is best if you’re comfortable with basic, off-grid conditions.

Paid Or Permit Sites

If you’re heading up to the Beauty Spot boondocking area on Unaka Mountain, you’ll probably need a permit. Honestly, it’s not just a formality—it helps keep the place from getting trashed and lets everyone enjoy it. I’d double-check local regulations before you toss your gear in the car, just to dodge any last-minute headaches.

Some areas up there offer paid camping with basics like fire rings or maybe a picnic table. That small fee? It goes back into the place, keeping things in decent shape for the next folks.

Skip the permit and, well, you’re gambling. Rangers might fine you or ask you to pack up and leave. It’s way less hassle to grab a permit online or swing by the ranger station on your way in.

Here’s the gist:

• Permit required: Yeah, for some spots.
• Where to get permit: Online or at the local ranger office.
• Paid camping: Yep, in certain areas.
• Costs: Depends on the site and the season.

Honestly, following the permit rules isn’t just about avoiding trouble—it shows you care about the spot and the people coming after you. Stick to the guidelines and your boondocking experience should go pretty smoothly.

Helpful Boondocking Information Links:

Over 10,000 Free Boondocking Locations
Boondocking Recipes for 1000’s Of Camping Meals
Bureau of Land Management
Government Recreation Area
National Park Service
Leave No Trace

State Specific Information Links

Michigan Park Service
Michigan Fish and Game
Department of Natural Resources