Thunder Rock Campground

THUNDER ROCK CAMPGROUND

Part of Cherokee National Forest

Overview

Thunder Rock Campground is located 1.8 miles northwest of the Ocoee Whitewater Center, just behind TVA Ocoee Powerhouse Number 3. Nestled alongside the Ocoee River, this facility provides 37 regular campsites for popups and RVs less than 20 feet with no elctricity , ONLY site 9 is an electric site for less than 20 feet at 30 amp, and one group campsite. Thunder Rock is a popular destination for both whitewater and trail enthusiasts. 

Facilities

Picnic tables, grills, and lantern posts are located at each campsite. Water hydrants are located throughout the campground. Bathhouses provide flush toilets and warm showers. The campground host is located at the campground entrance next to the main bathhouse.

Thunder Rock Campground Map and Guide 

Natural Features

The Cherokee National Forest is located in eastern Tennessee and stretches from Chattanooga to Bristol along the North Carolina border. The 650,000-acre swath of land is Tennessee's only national forest. It lies in the heart of the Southern Appalachians and is home to more than 20,000 species of plants and animals, as well as many rivers, creeks and lakes.

Recreation

Trailhead parking is available for the nearby Tanasi trail system, which includes approximately 30 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. This system can be reached via Thunder Rock Express, Dry Pond Lead, or the Rhododendron Trail. Thunder Rock also provides access to the Benton-McKaye Trail.

Nearby Attractions

The nearby Ocoee River put-in and Ocoee Whitewater Center, home of the 1996 Olympic Canoe/Kayak-Slalom Competition, makes this an ideal location for rafters and kayakers alike.

Important Notices

  • RV's, trailers, and pop-ups greater than 20 feet in legth are NOT allowed at this faciltiy because of maneuverability restrictions. Only site 9 has electricity.  

  • Campfires are permitted in grills only
  • Do not leave fires unattended, they will be extinguished
  • Pets must be on a leash
  • Discharging firearms and fireworks is prohibited
  • No swimming allowed
  • Alcoholic beverages are prohibited
  • 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 www.dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.
  • 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.

Available Activities

  • Whitewater Rafting - Whitewater Rafting
  • Camping - Camping
  • Mountain Biking - Mountain Biking
  • Boating - Boating
  • Canoeing - Canoeing
  • Fishing - Fishing
  • Hiking - Hiking
  • Kayaking - Kayaking
  • Non-Motorized Boating - Non-Motorized Boating
  • Rafting - Rafting
  • River Trips - River Trips
  • Scenic Drive - Scenic Drive
  • Backpacking - Backpacking

Directions

From the Ocoee Ranger Station, turn left onto Highway 64 eastbound and travel 10.9 miles to the TVA Ocoee Powerhouse Number 3. Turn right and cross the bridge to reach the campground on the right.

Cancellation Policy

<p>All sites have a $18.00 cancellation and reservation fee.  </p>

Contact Information

Phone: 423-338-3300

3171 Hwy 64
Benton, TN 37307

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Available Campsites

Photo Gallery