Old Forge Recreation Area

Area Status: Closed

Are you looking for a primitive tent camping experience? Come stay at this small campground located along the banks of Jennings Creek. Large walk-in tent sites are screened by native vegetation. In the early 1900’s, this area was the site of an iron forge. Iron ore was smelted and made into materials for the railroad operation that harvested timber in the area.

At a Glance

Operational Hours:	Spring opening - March 2023
Reservations:	Sites are first come, first serve basis and are non-reservable.
Area Amenities:	Tent camping,Fee charged for some activities,Toilets,Parking
Fees:	Camping fee is $7 per site per night.
Open Season:	3/17/2022 - 12/20/2022
Usage:	Light
Restrictions:	Group size is 5 people, 2 vehicles per site. No alcoholic beverages are allowed in the area. Horses are not allowed in the campground. Food storage restrictions apply at all areas on the Cherokee National Forest. All food and beverages must be stored in an approved bear-proof container, your locked vehicle or hard-sided camper at all times unless being eaten, prepared, or transported.
Closest Towns:	Greeneville, TN
Water:	No potable water available.
Restroom:	Vault Toilets
Operated By:	US Forest Service

General Information

Directions: From Greeneville, take TN 107 east (off US 11E) for six miles and then follow signs to Horse Creek Recreation Area (approximately two miles). From Horse Creek, turn right onto Forest Road #331 for three miles. The road dead-ends at campground.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Campground Camping

Old Forge Recreation Area features tent camping along Jennings Creek.

No. of Sites	10 walk-in tent sites
Reservation Info	Sites are first come, first serve and nonreservable.
Fire Information	There is a grill/fire ring at each campsite.

River and Stream Fishing

Old Forge Recreation Area features opportunities for trout fishing.

Fish Species	Rainbow and brook trout
Special Designations	See TWRA licences and for rules and regulations on fishing.
Fishing Method	Fly fishing is very popular.

Day Hiking

The Jennings Creek Trail (#21) and Little Jennings Creek Trail (#195) leave Old Forge campground and connect with the Cowbell Hollow Trail (#24) to create a loop system for horses, bikes and hikers between the campground and Round Knob Picnic Area. Poplar Cove Trail (#24) connects to Horse Creek Road (FSR# 94).