Skip to main content
Site Open
Recreation Region: Nantahala Ranger District

Ellicott Rock Wilderness

Ellicott Rock Wilderness is located at the intersection of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, with approximately 3,400 acres of 8,300 acres. The National Wild and Scenic River, Chattooga Rivers crosses the wilderness area. Camping is permitted, but group size is limited to 10 people. No wheeled or motorized equipment is permitted. Traveling through the wilderness is best done with a compass and topographic map as trails are not marked.

General Information

year round

No horse or bikes, wagons or carts. No motorized vehicles. No signs or trail blazing are located in Wilderness Areas. Group size is limited to 10. Only primitive activities such as backpacking and camping are permitted. No camping within 50 feet of water. Pack in and pack out. Practice Leave No Trace.

None

Nantahala RD

Address: 90 Sloan Road Franklin, NC 28734
Phone: (828) 524-6441
Hours: (Mon - Fri) 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: sm.fs.nantahalard@usda.gov

Getting There

Directions

From Highlands drive south on main street and Horse Cove Road 4.5 miles to the end of the pavement. Turn right onto Bull Pen Road and drive east 1.8 miles to the Ellicott Rock Trail Head, or 5.8 miles to the Bad Creek/Folwer Creek Trail head. From Cashiers drive south on NC 107 for 7 miles to BUll Pen ROad. Turn right and drive west for 2.7 miles to the Bad Creek/Fowler Creek trail or 6.7 miles to the Ellicott Rock Trailhead.

Facility and Amenity Information

Restrooms

Restrooms are not available at this site.

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Recreation Opportunities

Last updated August 15, 2025