Backbone Rock Campground

Star4.55
186 reviews
9941 Hwy 133, Shady Valley, TN, 37688

Quick Facts

2,100 ft

Price

$10 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Open April 28, 2025,...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Cherokee National Forest site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Backbone Rock Campground
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $10 to $20 per night for standard non-electric campsites. Fees do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
423-735-1500wataugarec@gmail.com
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What Campers Say

4.55

Top-Rated

Based on 186 reviews

112 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanrestroomsspaciousfriendly

Some mention

noisereservation

"Backbone Rock Campground is highly rated for its cleanliness, natural beauty, and friendly camp hosts. Reviews consistently mention the peaceful creekside location, spacious sites, and proximity to hiking trails. However, some complaints include traffic noise from the nearby road and the lack of showers."

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Campground Map

9941 Hwy 133, Shady Valley, TN, 37688

Backbone Rock Campground

9941 Hwy 133, Shady Valley, TN, 37688

Driving directionsTake Highway TN 133 north from Highway 91. The campsite is located on Highway 133, just north of Backbone Rock.
The campground is easily accessible from major roads, located directly off TN Highway 133. Roads are paved and suitable for vehicles of all types. Seasonal closures are not mentioned, but it is advisable to check local conditions during extreme weather.
Nearby places
Damascus, VA (approximately 5 miles, ~10-minute drive)
Shady Valley, TN (approximately 3 miles, ~5-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and essential supplies are available in Damascus, VA, which is approximately 5 miles (~10-minute drive) from the campground. Firewood can be purchased from the camp hosts for $3 per bundle.

Best Time to Camp at Backbone Rock Campground

From April through October, Backbone Rock transforms into a temperate paradise where morning mists dance above the creek and afternoon sunshine filters through the canopy. The mountains here have their own personality—sudden rain showers sweep through, turning Beaverdam Creek into a rushing symphony of water over rocks. These dramatic weather shifts create stunning photography moments, though savvy campers keep an eye on creek levels during storms when nature shows its wilder side.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Busy in summer; cool creekside location and swimming make it appealing in warm months.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall praised for seasonal photography and foliage; campground open through mid-October.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring morning mists and temperate conditions described; campground opens late April.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground is seasonally open April–October; winter camping not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: April 28, 2025 - October 13, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open April 28, 2025, through October 13, 2025.

About Backbone Rock Campground

Tucked away in the heart of the Southern Appalachians, Backbone Rock Campground offers an intimate escape with just 10 campsites, including two spacious double sites perfect for families camping together. At 2,100 feet elevation, this hidden gem sits alongside the babbling waters of Beaverdam Creek, where modern conveniences like flush toilets blend seamlessly with the raw beauty of the mountain wilderness. The legendary Backbone Rock Trail beckons adventurers just steps from your tent, promising unforgettable explorations through ancient forests.
Backbone Rock Campground caters to tent and RV campers with its primitive, non-electric sites. It also features two double sites suitable for groups.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2PM - 10 PM EST.
Check-out
11 AM EST.
Stay Limit
14 days maximum stay within rolling 30 days.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Backbone Rock Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, wildlife viewing, and biking. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is accessible via the Backbone Rock Trail (#53), which spans 4 miles and connects to the Appalachian Trail. Beaverdam Creek provides opportunities for trout fishing, swimming, and scenic photography. Nearby attractions include the Backbone Falls Trail and the Virginia Creeper Trail.
HikingHiking trails, including the 4-mile Backbone Rock Trail (#53) and the short Backbone Falls Trail (#198), provide access to stunning views and connections to the Appalachian Trail. "You can walk to Backbone Rock, which is a fun little hike," noted one reviewer.
ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.
FishingBeaverdam Creek is stocked with trout, making fishing a popular activity. "I caught two nice trout while there," one reviewer shared, emphasizing the appeal of the creek for anglers.
SwimmingSwimming is available in Beaverdam Creek, which runs behind the campsites. The creek provides a natural swimming area but can become dangerous after heavy rains.
BikingThe nearby Virginia Creeper Trail, located just 5 miles away in Damascus, VA, offers excellent biking opportunities. "Definitely go into Damascus and do the Creeper Trail bike trail," recommended a visitor.
Wildlife viewingThe lush forest surroundings provide a habitat for diverse wildlife, making it a great spot for nature observation.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe campground is in bear country, requiring strict adherence to food storage regulations. Heavy rains can cause creek levels to rise dangerously. The road proximity may pose minor risks for traffic noise.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Backbone Rock Campground

Reviews

4.6
186 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Backbone Rock Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Backbone Rock Campground is highly rated for its cleanliness, natural beauty, and friendly camp hosts. Reviews consistently mention the peaceful creekside location, spacious sites, and proximity to hiking trails. However, some complaints include traffic noise from the nearby road and the lack of showers.
Review Summaries
Based on 186 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests praise the clean restrooms, spacious campsites, and welcoming hosts. "Hosts were gracious and friendly," noted one review, and another stated, "The campground was very clean and orderly."
Based on 186 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users highlighted traffic noise due to the campground's proximity to the road, as well as the lack of showers and cell phone service. "The campground is right next to the road and there is a lot...
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Based on 186 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own soap for the restrooms and firewood is available for $3 a bundle on-site. For privacy, choose campsites further from the restroom facilities, and be prepared for no cell reception.
Based on 186 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest during the summer and fall seasons, with visitors appreciating the cool creekside location during warmer months. Fall provides opportunities for stunning seasonal...
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Based on 186 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The bathrooms are always clean." "Hosts are gracious and friendly." "Traffic noise can be bothersome, but the sound of the creek helps." "Bring your own soap!"
Based on 186 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #1 is praised for its privacy and river access, while Site #10 is noted for its proximity to the creek and spacious layout. Several users highlighted the cleanliness and overall quality of these...
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Based on 186 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites and facilities are available, though specific feedback from users with disabilities is limited.
Based on 186 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is pet-friendly, but pets must be kept on a leash. "All pets must be on a 6' leash at all times," according to the rules.
Based on 186 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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