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Adventure Beckons...
From the scenic Appalachian Mountains to whitewater, discover your next destination on the Cherokee National Forest.
Ocoee Whitewater Center destroyed by fire.
Early Tuesday morning April 26, 2022, the Ocoee Whitewater Center caught fire and was destroyed. The cause of the fire remains undetermined, but investigation is ongoing. See update.
The Ocoee Whitewater Center is currently closed, as are associated trails including:
- Rhododendron Trail #332
- Bear Paw Loop Trail #334
- Old Copper Road Trail#333
- Connector trail from Chestnut Loop #335 to Bear Paw Loop Trail #334
The Cherokee National Forest is divided into northern and southern sections by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The 650,000-acre forest is the largest tract of public land in Tennessee and adjoins other national forests in Virginia, North Carolina and Georgia. The forest is home to 30 developed campgrounds and numerous picnic areas, over 700 miles of trails, seven whitewater rivers, two Forest Service scenic byways, and the Ocoee Whitewater Center where you can enjoy a scenic drive through the mountains, the pursuit of wildlife, the thrill of whitewater, a night under the stars, or solitude on a backcountry trail.
Adventure beckons...
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Fire Information
TN Burn Permit Required Oct. 15 to May 15 - Online or Phone
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...Know Before You Go
Recent News
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Ocoee Whitewater Center reopening
Release Date: May 25, 2022
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Chilhowee Campground reopened
Release Date: May 25, 2022
Features
Don't Move Firewood
Your Help is Needed: Here's one simple way to combine your desire to protect the environment with your plans to have a great time outdoors -- don't move firewood from ... see full article
Snorkeling in the Cherokee National Forest
Everyone is welcome to visit the Cherokee National Forest to enjoy the clear, clean waters and view the abundant aquatic animals. Individuals and non-commercial groups may go to any stream to snorkel. Groups wanting an organized snorkeling experience led by knowledgeable guides with lifeguards present should contact the Forest.
Spotlights
Cherokee Hotshots
The Cherokee Hotshots are a highly trained Type One Wildland Fire Suppression crew that is hosted by the Cherokee National Forest in East Tennessee.
Motor Vehicle Use Map
![[Image] Sample Motor Vehicle Use Map Cover links to sample of a MVUM map.](/Internet/FSE_MEDIA/fseprd1002653_tn.jpg)
The Motor Vehicle Use Maps for the Cherokee NF are available free of charge at USDA Forest Service offices in Cleveland, Greeneville, Benton, and Tellico Plains, and Unicoi, TN
