Rock Creek Campground (Tn)

4.29

136 reviews

PO Box 429, Wartburg, TN, 37887, USA

Featured in:Family-Friendly Campgrounds Tennessee Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Tennessee Boating Camping Tennessee

Quick Facts

984 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Quick Facts

984 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Rock Creek Campground (Tn)

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The tent-only nonelectric sites are $15 per night, year-round. Fees do not include discounts, taxes, or additional charges.

Standard Site Fee$15.00

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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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(423) 346-6294obri_information@nps.gov

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What Campers Say

4.29

Satisfactory

Based on 136 reviews

62 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefullocationhiking

Some mention

noisetrain

"Rock Creek Campground receives a mix of praise and criticism. It is widely regarded as a beautiful, peaceful location, ideal for nature enthusiasts, but recurring issues include noise from locals, spot-taking controversies, and minimal ranger presence."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

PO Box 429, Wartburg, TN, 37887, USA

Rock Creek Campground (Tn)

PO Box 429, Wartburg, TN, 37887, USA

Driving directionsFrom the East: Take State Route 62 West, then veer to the right onto State Route 27. Make a left onto Kingston Street, and follow the brown Obed road signs to the visitor center on North Maiden Street. To continue on to the campground, stay on North Maiden Street until reaching an intersection. Stay straight on North Maiden Street crossing Main Street/Old Hwy 27 until you reach Spring Street. Turn right onto Spring Street and continue on to the sharp left-handed curve where the road becomes Catoosa Road. Stay on Catoosa Road for approximately 5.5 miles until reaching the entrance of the campground. From the West: Take State Route 62 East, then make a right onto State Route 27 South. Make a right onto Kingston Street, and follow the brown Obed road signs to the visitor center on North Maiden Street. To continue on to the campground, stay on North Maiden Street until reaching an intersection. Stay straight on North Maiden Street crossing Main Street/Old Hwy 27 until you reach Spring Street. Turn right onto Spring Street and continue on to the sharp left-handed curve where the road becomes Catoosa Road. Stay on Catoosa Road for approximately 5.5 miles until reaching the entrance of the campground. From the North: Follow State Route 27 South into Wartburg. Make a right onto Kingston Street, and follow the brown Obed road signs to the visitor center on North Maiden Street. To continue on to the campground, stay on North Maiden Street until reaching an intersection. Stay straight on North Maiden Street crossing Main Street/Old Hwy 27 until you reach Spring Street. Turn right onto Spring Street and continue on to the sharp left-handed curve where the road becomes Catoosa Road. Stay on Catoosa Road for approximately 5.5 miles until reaching the entrance of the campground. From the South: Follow State Route 27 North into Wartburg. Make a left onto Kingston Street, then follow the brown Obed road signs to the visitor center on North Maiden Street. To continue on to the campground, stay on North Maiden Street until reaching an intersection. Stay straight on North Maiden Street crossing Main Street/Old Hwy 27 until you reach Spring Street. Turn right onto Spring Street and continue on to the sharp left-handed curve where the road becomes Catoosa Road. Stay on Catoosa Road for approximately 5.5 miles until reaching the entrance of the campground.

Accessible via paved roads for most of the route; the final stretch on Catoosa Road is unpaved and can be bumpy but passable with standard vehicles. Seasonal closures or weather-related access challenges are not specified.

Nearby places

Frozen Head State Park is a few miles away

Lone Mountain State Forest is approximately 15 miles.

Nearby supplies

Supplies are a few miles away, but exact distances are unspecified. Stores nearby offer essential groceries and camping gear.

Best Time to Camp at Rock Creek Campground (Tn)

Experience nature's ever-changing canvas throughout the year at Rock Creek. Most seasons welcome campers with pleasantly dry conditions and comfortable temperatures that make outdoor adventures a joy. Spring and fall paint the landscape in spectacular colors under mild skies, while summer brings warm days perfect for river activities. Winter transforms the campground into a quieter retreat, where occasional light snow dustings create magical morning scenes, though heavier rains during this season remind visitors to pack accordingly.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.5 / 5

Popular for swimming and hiking in summer, but noise and ATV activity increase then.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall noted as quieter with better trail conditions—recommended season for many reviewers.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Pleasant spring weather and migratory bird activity make spring attractive for visits.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round with fewer visitors in winter, but limited winter-specific activities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 1 - December 31 (year-round peak season pricing).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open year-round, January 1 to December 31.
Current Alerts: Null

About Rock Creek Campground (Tn)

Tucked along the pristine waters of the Emory River, Rock Creek Campground offers an authentic wilderness experience in the heart of the Obed Wild and Scenic River area. This intimate, primitive campground serves as your gateway to endless adventure, where the gentle murmur of flowing water provides the soundtrack to your stay. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring winding forest trails, or simply savoring the tranquility of riverside camping, Rock Creek delivers the perfect blend of accessibility and untouched natural beauty.

Rock Creek Campground is a primitive, tent-only camping facility within the Obed Wild and Scenic River area. It caters to campers seeking a rustic, back-to-nature experience.

Historical SignificanceRock Creek Campground sits within the treasured Obed Wild and Scenic River system, a testament to decades of conservation efforts that have preserved this remarkable landscape for future generations. This protected area represents more than just natural beauty—it embodies the region's commitment to environmental stewardship and the enduring connection between local communities and their wild spaces. Here, every trail tells a story of the people who fought to protect these pristine waters and ancient forests.

Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's ever-changing canvas throughout the year at Rock Creek. Most seasons welcome campers with pleasantly dry conditions and comfortable temperatures that make outdoor adventures a joy. Spring and fall paint the landscape in spectacular colors under mild skies, while summer brings warm days perfect for river activities. Winter transforms the campground into a quieter retreat, where occasional light snow dustings create magical morning scenes, though heavier rains during this season remind visitors to pack accordingly.

ElevationPerched within the dramatic topography of the Cumberland Plateau, Rock Creek Campground is surrounded by elevations that sweep from river valleys at 1,340 feet to ridge tops soaring to 3,000 feet. This varied terrain creates diverse microclimates and ecosystems, offering campers the chance to experience multiple landscapes within a short distance. The campground itself nestles comfortably within this vertical wonderland, providing easy access to both lowland river environments and highland forest adventures.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where the Emory River carves its ancient path through lush Cumberland Plateau forests. Rock Creek Campground places you at the heart of this natural amphitheater, where towering hardwoods create a verdant canopy overhead and the river's gentle curves reveal new vistas around every bend. Wildlife thrives in this protected sanctuary—watch for deer browsing at forest edges, listen for the splash of river otters, and wake to a symphony of songbirds. Nearby trails wind through this diverse ecosystem, leading adventurers to hidden swimming holes, dramatic overlooks, and quiet forest groves.

Geological RegionSet within the rugged embrace of the Cumberland Plateau, Rock Creek Campground showcases millions of years of geological artistry. Here, the persistent flow of the Emory River has sculpted dramatic gorges through ancient sandstone layers, creating a landscape of stunning contrasts. Dense forests cloak the plateau's weathered surfaces, while exposed rock faces tell the story of prehistoric seas and shifting continents. This dynamic terrain offers endless exploration opportunities, from boulder-strewn riverbanks to cliff-lined trails that reveal the raw beauty of Appalachian geology.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

Check-out

Check-out by 11:00 AM.

Stay Limit

Stay limited to 14 consecutive nights per visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 8 guests allowed.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites arranged in a loop; marked parking is tight and layout favors compact vehicles.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; all sites must be reserved online through Recreation.gov.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed up to one calendar day before check-in for individual sites, with a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's use fee.

AccessibilityThe campground features accessible vault toilets and parking areas. However, some reviewers with disabilities noted challenges due to terrain and parking layouts.

Site SizeSites accommodate tents only, with each having tent pads, fire rings, and parking for a single vehicle.

PrivacyCampsites are described as relatively close together, offering limited privacy. However, Site 1 is noted for being more secluded from the main loop.

Total Campsites11 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 1 is noted for seclusion and ample space; Site 11 is highlighted for proximity to the river. Sites 9-11 offer unique settings but are harder to locate.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Rock Creek Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities due to its proximity to the Emory River and the surrounding natural features. Activities include hiking, fishing, climbing, wildlife viewing, and water-based activities such as kayaking and canoeing. Several hiking trails, including the Cumberland Trail, are accessible from the campground.

HikingThe campground is a gateway to multiple hiking trails, including parts of the Cumberland Trail. Trails range from easy strolls to more challenging routes, providing options for hikers of all skill levels.

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.

FishingFishing is a popular activity, with the Emory River offering opportunities to catch bass, bluegill, catfish, and other species. Some users shared positive fishing experiences, with one camper catching smallmouth bass during their stay.

SwimmingWhile there is no designated swimming area, the Emory River is suitable for water activities. Visitors often swim and enjoy the natural water holes near the campground.

BoatingThe Emory River supports boating activities such as kayaking and canoeing, making it a draw for water sport enthusiasts.

Wildlife viewingThe location is ideal for birdwatching, particularly during migratory seasons. Wildlife sightings, including eastern scorpions and snakes, have been noted by some campers.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPresence of black bears and other wildlife; campers must store all scented items in bear-proof lockers. Seasonal overcast can limit visibility, and unpaved roads may pose challenges during rain.

Active AlertsNull

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

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

Food Storage RequiredEach campsite includes a food storage locker measuring 29" deep x 38" wide x 43" tall.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed within designated fire rings only.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Null

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are likely found in Wartburg, including hospitals, police stations, and ranger facilities within the Obed WSR visitor center.

Trash & RecyclingGarbage disposal facilities are available, but users have noted occasional issues with litter in the campground. Campers are urged to keep the area clean and wildlife-safe.

Water FeaturesAdjacent to the Emory River; easy access for fishing, swimming, and riverfront relaxation.

Camp HostRanger presence is limited to occasional drive-throughs; not actively staffed on-site daily.

Weather at Rock Creek Campground (Tn)

Reviews

4.3

136 reviews

Satisfactory

Rock Creek Campground (Tn) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Rock Creek Campground receives a mix of praise and criticism. It is widely regarded as a beautiful, peaceful location, ideal for nature enthusiasts, but recurring issues include noise from locals, spot-taking controversies, and minimal ranger presence.

Review Summaries

Based on 136 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers love the scenic location along the Emory River, the variety of activities available, and the peaceful ambiance. Many reviews highlight the well-maintained campsites and proximity to hiking...

Based on 136 reviews

Common Concerns

Key issues include lack of ranger presence, leading to campsite disputes and disruptive behavior. Other recurring complaints are related to the vault toilets running out of supplies and no cell phone...

Based on 136 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring all essential supplies, including water, a flashlight for the vault toilets, and a lock for the bear boxes. Arrive early to claim your reserved site as there can be confusion about assigned...

Based on 136 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is popular for swimming and hiking, though noise complaints from locals on ATVs are more frequent. Fall offers quieter experiences and better trail conditions. Winter sees fewer visitors but...

Based on 136 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Wonderful, beautiful campsite." - MCKENZIE P; "The vault toilet is one of the cleaner I’ve ever used!" - PHILLIP B; "Noisy ATV's going up and down the road bothered me." - JUNE R

Based on 136 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 1 is noted for seclusion, while Sites 9-11 are described as hard to find but worth it. Site 11 is mentioned several times as spacious and scenic.

Based on 136 reviews