Thunder Rock Campground

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 and one group campsite. Thunder Rock is a popular destination for both whitewater and trail enthusiasts.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Thunder Rock Campground Map and Guide

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	Thunder Rock Campground is currently open. Power and water have been restored.
Reservations:
Area Amenities:	Accessible, Tent camping, Camping trailer, Fee charged for some activities, Picnic tables, Toilets, Drinking water, Parking
Fees:	See Recreation.gov for details on fees.
Open Season:	2/23/2024 - 1/20/2025
Busiest Season:	Memorial Day to October 1
Restrictions:	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. Maximum of 5 people and 2 vehicles at each site.
Closest Towns:	Benton, TN
Water:	Drinking Water
Restroom:	Flush and Vault Toilets, Showers
Operated By:	US Forest Service
Information Center:	Because of maneuverability restrictions RVs, trailers and pop-ups greater than 20 feet in length are NOT allowed at this facility. Campfires are permitted in grills and fire rings 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