How much does camping cost at Paint Creek Campground?

Camping fees at Paint Creek Campground are $10/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Paint Creek Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Paint Creek Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Paint Creek Campground before I book?

Yes! Paint Creek Campground has 10 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Paint Creek Campground?

Paint Creek Campground is open May 05 to October 24. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Paint Creek Campground?

Paint Creek Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Paint Creek Campground have?

Paint Creek Campground has 20 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Paint Creek Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Paint Creek Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Paint Creek Campground?

Paint Creek Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Paint Creek Campground?

Popular activities at Paint Creek Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Paint Creek Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Paint Creek Campground?

Fire policies at Paint Creek Campground: Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

3.68

250 reviews

1965 Lower Paint Creek Rd

C+Report Card

Featured in:Best Campgrounds Tennessee

Quick Facts

1,760 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Open season: May 7th...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Unaka Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,760 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Open season: May 7th...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Unaka Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Paint Creek Campground

$10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard Nonelectric: $10.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

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256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

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Provider

423-638-4109

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

1965 Lower Paint Creek Rd

Paint Creek Campground

1965 Lower Paint Creek Rd

Nearby places

Greeneville, TN (approx. 20 miles)

Weather at Paint Creek Campground

Current alerts(11)

Access road is narrow and steep with some sharp curves.
All animals must be crated or on a leash not longer than 6 feet.
All users' equipment must be contained within the site. Sites must be kept neat and orderly.
Be Bear Wise: Food storage compliance is strictly enforced. Store all food and trash in hard-sided containers and vehicles while not in use. Never have attractants in your tent. Violations of the food storage order are ticketable offenses and subject to fines.

Best Time to Camp at Paint Creek Campground

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of cool, stable weather and spectacular Appalachian color — daytime highs typically range from the mid-50s to upper-60s°F with crisp nights in the mid-30s to mid-40s°F. Leaf-peeping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and trout fishing are at their peak as hemlocks and mountain laurels contrast with brilliant maples and oaks; mosquitoes and biting flies are largely absent. Expect busy weekends during peak color (mid-September to mid-October), so plan weekday trips or book Peak months: October, September, July, August Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall highlighted as best: cool temps, stable weather and spectacular Appalachian color.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 05 to October 24. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season: May 7th, 2025 - October 24th, 2025. Reservable start dates: June 24th, 2025.

About Paint Creek Campground

Paint Creek Campground sits in the Cherokee National Forest foothills near Greeneville, Tennessee, operated by the Unaka Ranger District. The creek wraps around the campground, offering swimming, fishing, and a natural soundtrack for tent, RV, and primitive campers. Fall brings peak conditions with cool temperatures and Appalachian color, plus access to hiking and biking trails through hemlock and hardwood forest.

Paint Creek Campground caters to campers seeking a natural, primitive camping experience. The area is suitable for both tent and RV camping, but the lack of electrical and water hookups makes it more appropriate for self-sufficient campers.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of cool, stable weather and spectacular Appalachian color — daytime highs typically range from the mid-50s to upper-60s°F with crisp nights in the mid-30s to mid-40s°F. Leaf-peeping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and trout fishing are at their peak as hemlocks and mountain laurels contrast with brilliant maples and oaks; mosquitoes and biting flies are largely absent. Expect busy weekends during peak color (mid-September to mid-October), so plan weekday trips or book Peak months: October, September, July, August Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation1760 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryPaint Creek wraps around the campground, carving through rolling Appalachian peaks and ridges. Hemlocks and mountain laurels create a dense canopy over the sites, with rhododendrons filling in the understory. The creek flows clear enough for swimming and fishing. Paint Creek Pond sits nearby, along with Kelly, Dudley, and Ricker Falls within hiking distance. Mornings bring mist through the trees, evenings fill with frog calls.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or cabins are available. The campground caters to tent and RV campers.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is 13 nights within a rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 5 people per site, including infants and children.

Groups

The campground does not feature designated group camping sites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityFeatures include accessible campsites and vault toilets. However, reviews do not provide specific feedback on accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeThe campsites are described as widely spaced, with ample room for tents or small RVs.

PrivacyA majority of the campsites are screened by native plants, offering good privacy. "The sites are well kept and quite distant from each other." (User review by AARON S, 7/20/2021)

Total Campsites20 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 11 is quiet and secluded, ideal for those seeking isolation. Site 14 offers views of the creek and is described as fairly private.

Best CampsitesSites 11 and 14 get mentioned for streamside views and privacy, though most sites are well-screened by vegetation.

Need help booking Paint Creek Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Paint Creek Campground offers a mix of basic and nature-focused amenities that cater to campers looking for a rustic experience in the Cherokee National Forest. Visitors will find 20 single occupancy campsites, with 3 designated as tent-only (sites 13, 14, and 16). Drinking water is conveniently available at the center of the campground, and there are two vault toilets, one in each loop. The campsites are spacious, with many offering streamside views and privacy due to natural vegetation like rhododendrons, hemlocks, and laurels. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Notably, the campground lacks showers and electrical hookups, and trash services are limited to two dumpsters.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Paint Creek Campground

The campground offers a range of recreational activities, emphasizing outdoor and nature-based experiences. Visitors can swim, wade, and fish in Paint Creek, which is stocked with rainbow trout throughout the summer. Hiking is also popular, with two trails originating near the campground: Paint Mountain Trail (#7) and Paint Creek Trail (#10). The area is also suitable for biking and scenic drives.

Hiking4.0/5

Paint Mountain Trail (#7) and Paint Creek Trail (#10) accessible from campground.

Fishing4.0/5

Swimming4.0/5

Biking4.0/5Top 9% in Tennessee

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Paint Creek Pond area rich in wildlife (beavers, frogs) and birding opportunities.

Water Sports2.0/5

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Fall foliage, rhododendrons, creek pools and forested ridges offer strong photo ops.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. Only vault toilets are provided, and their condition has been a recurring concern in user reviews. "The vault toilets needed treatment, the smell was nausea-inducing and carried into campsites." (User review by BRENDA B, 8/6/2022)

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.

Trash & RecyclingTrash disposal is limited to two dumpsters located within the campground. User reviews express dissatisfaction with this setup: "The quality of the campground has dropped since the garbage cans were removed and two dumpsters were put in. The flies were terrible as we tried eating outside." (User review by RANDALL S, 8/16/2021)

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.7

250 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Paint Creek Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, Paint Creek Campground is highly regarded for its scenic setting, quiet atmosphere, and affordability. However, concerns about vault toilet cleanliness and trash management are recurring themes in reviews.

Review Summaries

Based on 250 reviews

What Campers Love

"The campsites were all very clean along with the restrooms and trails!" (User review by SAMANTHA B, 10/22/2021) "The creek that wraps around the campground provides a white noise that helps all the...

Based on 250 reviews

Common Concerns

Recurring complaints include vault toilets' odor and cleanliness, limited trash facilities, and issues with barking dogs. "The smell was nausea-inducing and carried into campsites." (User review by...

Based on 250 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites 13, 14, and 16 are designated tent-only. Site 14 is highly praised for its proximity to the creek and privacy. "Site 14 sits directly on/above the creek. Great view of the high mountain peaks."...

Based on 250 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Plan for the lack of showers and electrical hookups. Bring lanterns and a bucket to carry water to your site. "Sit back, relax by the fire, and let nature recharge your soul." (User review by...

Based on 250 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is particularly popular in the fall for its vibrant foliage and cooler weather. However, summer visitors often note the trout stocking and swimming opportunities. Fall reviews...

Based on 250 reviews

Camper Quotes

"We love Paint Creek Campground and Bill the host is the best. My only complaint is the horrible bathroom smell." (User review by MARGARET M, 9/4/2023) "Absolutely loved our stay. The camp host was...

Based on 250 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but barking dogs have been a noted issue in reviews. "Owners of yelping dogs should receive a warning about their dogs' continued barking." (User review by CHARLES M, 6/30/2022)

Based on 250 reviews

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Paint Creek Campground

$10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard Nonelectric: $10.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

423-638-4109

Go if

You want affordable creek access, trail proximity, and autumn color in a quiet national forest setting.

Skip if

You're sensitive to vault toilet odors or need alcohol-permitted campgrounds.

Nearby Campgrounds

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3.9

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Rocky Bluff Campground

2145 NC-209, HOT SPRINGS, NC, 28743

Rocky Bluff Campground sits along Spring Creek in the Appalachian foothills near Hot Springs, operated by the Appalachian Ranger District Office. This small, budget-friendly site offers primitive and tent camping with direct creek access for trout fishing and wading. Visitors come for the seclusion and wildlife viewing, though maintenance issues have been reported.

Paint Creek Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Current alerts(11)

Best Time to Camp at Paint Creek Campground

Planning Tips

About Paint Creek Campground

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Amenities available

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Overview

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Ask Camp Sage about Paint Creek Campground

Current alerts(11)

Best Time to Camp at Paint Creek Campground

Planning Tips

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Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Paint Creek Campground?

Amenities available

Things to do at Paint Creek Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews