Big Creek Primitive Boondocking in Copperhill, TN – Off-Grid Camping Freedom

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Big Creek Primitive Boondocking in Copperhill, TN
Off-Grid Camping Freedom

Previous Reviews:

Big Creek Primitive Boondocking: Big Creek Campground is located beside the beautiful Big Creek in a remote and secluded setting. With an elevation of 1,700 feet (518 m), the climate is moderate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers. Tent only camping, flush toilets, and drinking water are available. No hookups or showers are available at the campground.

The road in is Gravel and 8 miles from a paved road. Big Creek Primitive Campground is open year round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet. You may stay 14 days at Big Creek Primitive Campground.

About This Location

Big Creek Primitive Boondocking in Copperhill, TN gives you a quiet, off-grid camping spot right along a peaceful creek. There are about seven primitive campsites here, each one roomy enough for a couple vehicles and different setups, so it’s great if you’re trying to dodge the crowds and just get back to nature.

You won’t find amenities in the Big Creek primitive boondocking area. You’ve got to bring in everything you need and follow Leave No Trace principles. If you’re after a simple, quiet place surrounded by forest and water, this is it.

Key Takeaways

• Multiple primitive sites for off-grid camping
• Remote location near a creek, surrounded by nature
• Bring all your own supplies and gear

5. Big Creek Primitive Boondocking in Copperhill, TN

Looking for a quiet, off-grid camping spot? Big Creek Primitive Boondocking could be it. You’ll find roughly seven campsites along the creek, each big enough for a couple vehicles or setups. It works well for small groups or solo campers who want some space.

The Big Creek primitive boondocking area sits way out there, and you won’t get modern comforts. No hookups. Bring your own water, food, and a way to deal with your trash. The setting feels peaceful and the scenery is pretty nice.

Key points to know:

• Location: Near Copperhill, TN
• Sites: Around 7 primitive spots
• Facilities: None (boondocking only)
• Terrain: Flat, along a creek
• Elevation: About 1,700 feet

Cell service is spotty at best, and there’s no trash service. You have to pack out everything you bring in. It’s not a bad idea to check ahead—sometimes the site closes or has restrictions.

If you’re looking to avoid busy campgrounds, this Big Creek primitive boondocking spot is a solid pick. Just be ready for a self-sufficient stay and bring all your own gear.

Things To Do

At Big Creek Primitive Boondocking, you can chill by the creek and listen to the water. It’s a good place to just relax, maybe read a book or do nothing at all.

Hiking trails in Cherokee National Forest are close by. They’re great if you want to wander, spot wildlife, or just get some fresh air.

Bring your fishing gear if you want to try your luck in the creek. There are a few decent spots for casting a line.

If you’re into photography, the area’s got plenty to offer—trees, water, and the occasional critter.

Since you’re off-grid, it’s a perfect excuse to unplug. Sitting around a campfire with friends (or just your thoughts) feels pretty good out here.

Don’t forget your own water and supplies—there’s nothing nearby if you run out.

Here’s a quick list of things you can do:

• Hang out by the creek
• Hit the hiking trails
• Try some fishing
• Watch for wildlife
• Snap some nature photos
• Gather around a campfire

If you want peace and nature, you’ll get it in the Big Creek primitive boondocking area.

Directions

You’ll find Big Creek Primitive Boondocking near Copperhill, TN, close to Cherokee National Forest. Head for FR-221 off Ducktown Road.

From Copperhill, drive north on Highway 68 for about 4 miles. Turn onto FR-221 (Forest Road 221) and keep going for several miles. Watch for signs for Big Creek Primitive Camping.

The campsites are along the creek—keep an eye out for the water on either side. There are about seven primitive sites, all off-grid.

The road’s unpaved and can get rough. If it’s been raining, you’ll want a high-clearance or four-wheel drive vehicle. Go slow and watch for potholes.

Here’s a quick step-by-step:

Bring a paper map or a GPS that works offline—cell service probably won’t help you out here.

This is basic camping, no hookups. The sites are roomy enough for a couple vehicles, but you’ll want to pack everything you need.

Vehicle Access

You can drive right up to the campsites at Big Creek Primitive Boondocking, but the area’s set up to keep things simple and protect the environment. There are about seven individual spots, each one able to handle a couple vehicles or setups, but space isn’t unlimited.

They only allow two motor vehicles or one vehicle with a trailer per campsite. That keeps things from getting crowded and helps preserve the quiet vibe. Make sure your rig fits before you show up.

The road in isn’t paved and gets rough, especially after rain. If you’ve got a high-clearance vehicle or four-wheel drive, you’ll be happier. Take it easy on the drive—nobody wants to get stuck out here.

Parking’s usually just off the road, right by your site. Stick to the gravel or dirt pads; don’t drive onto the grass or through the woods. It helps keep the place looking good for the next folks.

You’ll want to haul in all your gear since there’s no help or services nearby. Bring some basic tools and supplies, just in case.

RV And Camping Trailer Information

Big Creek Primitive Boondocking doesn’t allow RVs or camping trailers. You’ll need to tent camp if you want to stay here.

The whole area’s set up for primitive camping—no hookups, no pads, nothing for RVs or trailers. That keeps things quiet and low-key.

Bring only what you can carry. There are about seven sites, and most of them fit a couple tents and vehicles, but don’t try to squeeze in a trailer.

Generators aren’t allowed, so if you need power, plan on solar or batteries. They want to keep the noise down and the camping low-impact. Low-impact camping is the goal here.

Plan on a back-to-basics trip—no electricity, water, or sewer. Double check your setup before you head out, so you’re not caught off guard.

Paid Or Permit Sites

Big Creek Primitive Boondocking is mostly a free camping area. You usually don’t need to pay a fee to camp here.

Some dispersed camping spots nearby might ask for permits. The forest service uses these to help manage the land and keep things in good shape.

Thinking about camping in Cherokee National Forest near Copperhill? Double-check if you’ll need a permit—sometimes they ask for one, especially if you’re with a group or planning a longer stay.

Here’s what you should keep in mind:

• Most sites at Big Creek don’t have fees or reservations.
• Some dispersed camping areas might want you to have a permit.
• Always call the local ranger station before you head out.

Try calling the ranger office at 423-338-3300 or 423-476-9700 to get the latest on rules and permits. It’s a good way to dodge fines and do your part for responsible camping.

You won’t find services like water or toilets here, so you’ll need to pack out your trash and stick to leave-no-trace habits.

If you’re after hookups or bathrooms, paid campgrounds nearby might fit better. Those have more amenities but aren’t part of the Big Creek primitive boondocking setup.

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