Horse Creek Pavilion Day Use
Horse Creek Pavilion is located eight miles from Greeneville, Tennessee. It is nestled into a hardwood cove beside its namesake, Horse Creek. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) constructed the pavilion during the 1930s.
The picnic pavilion has three tables and a paved parking area nearby. A large grill and water source is located at the pavilion. Additional tables are located nearby, as are trash containers and a pit toilet. The walkways and many of the sites are accessible; however the restroom has limited accessibility.
Notifications and Alerts
This location is closed until further notice due to significant impacts from Hurricane Helene. Please continue to monitor this location’s facility page on Recreation.gov for status updates or visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/cherokee for details. Keep in mind, local personnel may be attending to this urgent situation and not available to provide updates immediately.
Need to Know
- No alcoholic beverages are allowed in the area.
- Please call (423) 735-1500 to apply for a special use permit if your group size will be 75 people or more.
- There is no water at the site after November 3rd.
- Be Bear Wise: Never leave food out on tables or in the open. Store unattended food in bear-resistant containers, in a vehicle in solid non-pliable material, or suspend food at least ten feet off the ground. Remember to use the bear resistant trash receptacles provided at this facility.
THIS IS A DAY USE AREA ONLY. NO OVERNIGHT USE IS ALLOWED.
Natural Features
Horse Creek Pavilion is located close to Horse Creek and adjacent to Sampson Mountain Wilderness. It is located at the base of the Bald Mountains at an elevation of 1,720 feet.
Nearby Attractions
Horse Creek is located near historic Greeneville, Tennessee, home of Andrew Johnson, 17th President of the U.S. Tusculum College is located nearby. Founded in 1794, it is the oldest College in Tennessee. The Andrew Johnson Homestead and several museums are located in Greeneville/Tusculum. Hotels, restaurants, grocery stores and gas stations are nearby.
Recreation
Hiking, water-play and fishing are popular activities. Scarlet Oak Trail (#181) is a .2 mile leg-stretcher through the forest bordering the recreation area. A more primitive hiking experience is available on three trails located in the nearby Sampson Mountain Wilderness. A small campground and more picnic sites are located in Horse Creek Recreation Area.
Contact Information
Mailing
4900 Asheville Highway Greeneville Tennessee 37743
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: (423)638-4109
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From Greeneville, take TN 107 north for six miles. Turn right at Horse Creek Road and follow the signs for about two miles to the recreation area.
