Paint Creek Campground
4.3050 reviews1965 Lower Paint Creek Rd
Quick Facts
1,760 ftPrice
$10/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
20 campsites
Season
Open season: May 7th...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
1,760 ftPrice
$10/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
20 campsites
Season
Open season: May 7th...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsPaint Creek Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates during peak season are $10 per night for standard nonelectric sites. Fees do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$10.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider423-638-4109
What Campers Say
4.30
Satisfactory
Based on 50 reviews
115 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanrestroomssites
"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."
Fees & Passes at Paint Creek Campground
$10/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay is 13 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Cancellation: Reservation can be canceled anytime before check-in, with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of t...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Unaka Ranger District website.
Best Time to Camp at Paint Creek Campground
Summer brings warm, pleasant days perfect for creek exploration and hiking, with temperatures occasionally climbing into the heat of a true Southern summer. As autumn arrives, the mountainside erupts in a spectacular display of crimson, gold, and amber foliage that draws visitors from across the region. Early and late season adventurers should pack layers for unexpected cold snaps, while winter transforms the campground into a quiet, frosty wonderland where only the hardiest campers venture, rewarded with solitude and stark beauty amid freezing temperatures.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 7th, 2025 - October 24th, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open season: May 7th, 2025 - October 24th, 2025. Reservable start dates: June 24th, 2025.
- Current Alerts: No current active alerts are explicitly mentioned.
About Paint Creek Campground
Tucked away in a secluded mountain cove along the babbling waters of Paint Creek, this enchanting campground offers a true escape into nature at 1,760 feet elevation in Greene County, Tennessee. Here, generously spaced campsites provide an intimate connection with the wilderness, where towering hemlocks and ancient rhododendrons create natural privacy screens between sites. The melodic sounds of Paint Creek accompany campers throughout their stay, while mountain laurels paint the landscape with delicate blooms, creating a photographer's paradise and a nature lover's dream retreat.
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.
Historical SignificanceWhile the campground itself stands as a testament to the preservation of Tennessee's natural beauty within the Cherokee National Forest system, visitors find themselves immersed in the timeless Appalachian landscape that has shaped generations of mountain culture and outdoor traditions.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings warm, pleasant days perfect for creek exploration and hiking, with temperatures occasionally climbing into the heat of a true Southern summer. As autumn arrives, the mountainside erupts in a spectacular display of crimson, gold, and amber foliage that draws visitors from across the region. Early and late season adventurers should pack layers for unexpected cold snaps, while winter transforms the campground into a quiet, frosty wonderland where only the hardiest campers venture, rewarded with solitude and stark beauty amid freezing temperatures.
ElevationPerched at 1,760 feet above sea level, Paint Creek Campground enjoys the perfect sweet spot of mountain elevation – high enough to escape the sweltering valley heat and provide refreshing mountain breezes, yet accessible enough for comfortable camping. This elevation creates an ideal microclimate where morning mists dance through the trees and evening temperatures invite cozy campfires under star-filled skies.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry surrounds every campsite, from the crystal-clear waters of Paint Creek to the tranquil Paint Creek Pond where beavers craft their engineering marvels. Adventure seekers can discover the thundering beauty of three spectacular waterfalls – Kelly, Dudley, and Ricker Falls – each offering its own unique cascade through ancient rock formations. Dawn brings ethereal mist floating through the forest canopy, while twilight fills the air with a symphony of frogs and forest creatures. The dense canopy of hemlocks, rhododendrons, and mountain laurels creates a living cathedral that changes with each season.
Geological RegionNestled within the majestic Cherokee National Forest, Paint Creek Campground occupies a pristine mountain cove carved by centuries of flowing water. This geological wonder showcases the ancient Appalachian landscape, where Paint Creek has sculpted a perfect valley sanctuary surrounded by rolling peaks and time-worn ridges that tell the story of millions of years of natural history.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityFeatures include accessible campsites and vault toilets. However, reviews do not provide specific feedback on accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as widely spaced, with ample room for tents or small RVs.
Sites 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 CampsitesSite 11 is quiet and secluded, ideal for those seeking isolation. Site 14 offers views of the creek and is described as fairly private.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
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 are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutPaint Creek Campground features two loops, with sites screened by native vegetation for added privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 7th, 2025 - October 24th, 2025. Reservable start dates: June 24th, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityInformation on walk-up availability is not provided explicitly.
Cancellation PolicyReservation can be canceled anytime before check-in, with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
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.
Hiking
Two trails, Paint Mountain Trail (#7) and Paint Creek Trail (#10), are accessible from the campground. These trails are ideal for those seeking a hiking adventure.Fishing
Paint Creek is stocked with rainbow trout during the summer, offering opportunities for fly fishing. However, some reviewers noted that the creek might be too small for extended fishing trips. "We were there to fish Paint Creek, but it is really a bit too small of a creek for very good fishing." (User review by AARON S, 7/20/2021)Swimming
Swimming and wading are popular activities in Paint Creek. The creek provides natural swimming holes and scenic water features.Biking
Biking along the Paint Creek corridor to Hot Springs, NC, is a growing pastime. The area also serves as an excellent base for mountain and gravel biking. "An excellent base camp for mountain and gravel biking. Logged over 100 miles & 7,000' this weekend." (User review by EDD M, 8/10/2020)Wildlife viewing
The area around Paint Creek Pond is rich in wildlife, including beavers and frogs. Birding is also a popular activity.Winter Activities
Limited information, but the campground closes for the season in late October, limiting its use for winter activities.Water Sports
The creek allows for water activities like swimming and wading but does not support traditional water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be contained within designated fire rings. Burning plastic or non-wood materials is strictly prohibited.
- Quiet hours are Scheduled quiet hours are not explicitly provided, but reviews mention peace and quiet after 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity has been reported. Campground staff enforce food storage compliance to minimize safety concerns.
Active alertsNo current active alerts are explicitly mentioned.
Weather at Paint Creek Campground
44
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Greeneville, TN, approximately 20 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 7th, 2025 - October 24th, 2025.
Trash and 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)
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Paint Creek, with easy access to Paint Creek Pond for fishing and wildlife viewing.
Common complaintsSeveral user reviews note unpleasant smells from vault toilets, dog disturbances, and the removal of garbage cans leading to increased flies.
HostThe campground is managed by volunteer campground hosts who are described as friendly and helpful in multiple reviews.
Campground Map
1965 Lower Paint Creek Rd
Driving directionsFrom Greeneville, take TN 70 south for 11.2 miles, turn right on Rollins Chapel Road and then follow the signs to Paint Creek. Access road is narrow with some sharp curves.
The access road is narrow and steep with sharp curves, making it challenging for larger vehicles like RVs or trailers.Nearby places
Greeneville, TN (approx. 20 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Greeneville, TN, including groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
50 reviews
Paint Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% 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 50 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 50 reviewsShow more
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 50 reviewsShow more
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...
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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 50 reviewsShow more
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 50 reviewsShow more
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 50 reviewsShow more
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 50 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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