Horse Creek Campground in Chuckey, TN
Camping and Outdoor Activities
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Chuckey, TN GPS: 36.109331, -82.657283 Elevation: 1764′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – USDA Forest Service Walk-in Tent Sites are FREE Check for permits for trailers or RVs |
Previous Reviews:
Horse Creek Campground: Horse Creek Recreation Area is located eight miles from Greeneville, off TN 107 north. This recreation area is nestled into a hardwood cove beside its namesake, Horse Creek.
There are facilities for camping and day-use activities including hiking, fishing, picnicking and swimming. During the 1930’s, a rustic picnic pavilion and swimming area were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Company 1455, Camp Cordell Hull, stationed in Unicoi, TN.
Horse Creek Recreation Area is located eight miles from Greeneville, off TN 107 north. This recreation area is nestled into a hardwood cove beside its namesake, Horse Creek. There are facilities for camping and day-use activities including hiking, fishing, picnicking and swimming. During the 1930’s, a rustic picnic pavilion and swimming area were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Company 1455, Camp Cordell Hull, stationed in Unicoi.
About This Location
If you’re looking for a quiet spot surrounded by nature in Chuckey, TN, Horse Creek Campground is a solid pick. This campground has walk-in tent sites tucked away in a hardwood cove next to Horse Creek, giving you a peaceful setting right by the Cherokee National Forest. It’s a nice fit if you want simple camping with easy access to hiking and nature activities.
Getting to Horse Creek Campground isn’t complicated—just head out from Greeneville on TN 107, then follow Horse Creek Road. Unlike some bigger campgrounds, this place mostly caters to walk-in campers rather than folks with huge RVs, so it works if you’re after a rustic, natural vibe and don’t need big vehicle access. You can also check out spots like Beaverdam Creek or the French Broad River for a change of scenery.
Horse Creek sits close to other campgrounds like Carden’s Bluff and Dennis Cove, so you’ve got options if you want to roam around the region. Whether you’re hiking to falls like Squibb Creek or checking out lakes like Watauga and South Holston, this area’s got plenty for outdoor lovers who appreciate quiet, forested places.
Key Takeways
- Horse Creek Campground has walk-in tent camping in a quiet forest setting.
- The site’s easy to reach from Greeneville but mainly suits tents and smaller, non-RV campers.
- Lots of nearby natural attractions give you plenty to do beyond camping.
Horse Creek Campground in Chuckey, TN
Horse Creek Campground sits in Chuckey, TN, within Greene County and the Cherokee National Forest. You’ll find it in East Tennessee, with easy access to public land and plenty of forest and creek-side views.
This campground’s really for walk-in, tent camping. It’s a good spot for families who want quiet outdoor time away from busy roads. You won’t find RV hookups here, so it’s best for folks who want a simple, natural setting.
Horse Creek Recreation Area, where the campground is, lies about eight miles from Greeneville. To get there, take TN 107 north and turn right onto Horse Creek Road for about two miles.
At Horse Creek Campground, you can:
- Hike through the forest
- Fish in the creek
- Picnic at the Horse Creek Pavilion
The area’s known for its hardwood forests and peaceful vibe. It’s a steady pick for people looking to explore Cherokee National Forest without crowds.
If you want a family campground focused on nature and basic camping, Horse Creek fits well. It’s less developed, but you get a true outdoor experience in East Tennessee’s public lands.
Things To Do
At Horse Creek Campground, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities. There are several hiking trails nearby, including the Little Jennings Creek Trail. These trails wind through forests filled with mountain laurel and other native plants. Hiking here is honestly one of the best ways to get out and see what the area’s about.
Fishing’s also popular along Horse Creek. Try your luck catching local fish in the creek or nearby streams—it’s a quiet, relaxing way to spend the day.
There are two picnic areas at the campground, one upstream and one downstream. Both have tables and space for groups, so you can grab a meal or just hang out between activities.
The large picnic pavilion works great for gatherings, offering shelter and a comfy spot to eat or kick back.
Wildlife is pretty common around here. You might spot birds, deer, or smaller critters while hiking or fishing. Seeing animals in their own habitat definitely adds something extra to the trip.
Swimming’s allowed near the creek, so you can cool off when it gets hot.
Directions
To find Horse Creek Campground in Chuckey, TN, start from Greeneville. Head north on TN 107 for about six miles.
Then, turn right onto Horse Creek Road and follow the signs for another two miles. The campground sits near Horse Creek and isn’t hard to spot.
If you see the Old Pilot Hill General Store, you’re almost there. The store’s a handy landmark, sitting just before the turn to Horse Creek Road.
If you’re coming from the west or north, punching in 2375 Horse Creek Park Rd, Chuckey, TN 37641 on your GPS will get you there. That’s the official address for the campground area.
Here’s a quick step-by-step:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Start in Greeneville |
| 2 | Take TN 107 north for 6 miles |
| 3 | Turn right on Horse Creek Rd |
| 4 | Drive 2 miles following signs |
| 5 | Look for Old Pilot Hill Store |
Want to call ahead? The local park office is at +1 (423) 638-4109. It’s worth checking for updates or conditions before you head out.
Vehicle Access
Horse Creek Campground has limited vehicle access. The place is built for walk-in camping, so you’ll need to park outside and carry your gear to your site.
The roads going in are narrow and can get tricky for big RVs or large rigs. If you’re driving something large, it’s worth double-checking whether you’ll be able to manage the access roads before you commit.
Tent and smaller RV sites are available, but the bigger RV options are pretty limited due to the primitive road conditions. Plan ahead if you want to use an RV.
There aren’t any paved parking spots right next to the campsites. You’ll have to carry your stuff from the parking lot to your site. That keeps things natural, but it also means you can’t just pull up and unload at your tent.
You won’t find showers, electricity, or water at individual sites. Restroom facilities are limited. Don’t expect the amenities you’d get at a full-service RV park.
If you want a spot with easy vehicle access, this probably isn’t it. But if you’re up for a quiet, natural camping experience and don’t mind a little walking, it’s a solid choice.
RV And Camping Trailer Information
At Horse Creek Campground in Chuckey, TN, you’ll find both RV sites and tent sites. That makes it a decent spot for small RV camping as well as traditional tent camping.
The RV sites can handle small travel trailers, but keep in mind the campground is primitive. There’s no electricity or water hookups at the sites. You’ll need to bring your own supplies and plan for a more self-sufficient trip.
If you’re into tent camping, most tent sites are walk-in and usually require a short walk from the parking area. The campsites here are simple and close to nature, with only limited facilities.
Since the campground is primitive, there are bathhouses but no water or power at the campsites themselves. It’s definitely more rustic than most commercial campgrounds.
Camping trailers, including travel trailers, show up here too. You’ll see setups from small trailers that fit typical family groups. Fees for RV camping are reasonable, but they change based on site size and season.
All in all, Horse Creek gives you a mix of primitive campground options for both RV and tent camping—if you’re comfortable with minimal facilities. It’s quiet and natural, which makes it easier to unplug and actually relax.
Paid Or Permit Sites
At Horse Creek Campground, most campsites are free and up for grabs on a first-come, first-served basis. You won’t pay any fees for the primitive walk-in tent sites, though you’ll have to go without water or electricity.
If our group’s bigger than five people or if we plan to squeeze in more than two vehicles at a site, there are a few extra hoops to jump through. For groups over 75, we’ll need a special use permit. Best to call the Cherokee National Forest office before heading out and get that sorted.
There’s a pavilion you can use during the day, but for bigger gatherings, you’ll need a permit. Heads up: after early November, the pavilion doesn’t have water, so bring your own if you’re planning a late-season event.
| Site Type | Fee/Permit Needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Walk-in Tent Sites | No fee, first-come, first-served | No utilities, primitive camping |
| Group Sites (over 5 people) | May require permit | Limit of 2 vehicles per site |
| Large Groups (75+) | Special use permit required | Apply by phone before visit |
| Pavilion (Day Use) | Permit needed for large groups | No water after early November |
It’s a good idea to check the latest rules before you go—permits help keep things organized and safe for everyone.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Near Water Pavilion Picnic Tables |
Tent Camping Picnicking Fishing Hiking Nature Walks Wildlife Viewing Swimming |
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