Cherokee National Forest
 

Recreation

There are fifteen recreation zones to explore across the Cherokee National Forest. From Big Frog Mountain to Watauga Lake, each recreation zone offers unique opportunities, activities and experiences.

Choose an activity of interest in the left menu under “Recreation” or begin exploring the Recreation Map below. Click on the symbols to view recreation opportunities featured throughout the national forest.

There are several ways to view Recreation Map including a “Terrain” option that highlights the mountains, rivers and lakes. Click in the box labeled “Map” located in the upper right corner to change viewing options.

Enjoy your visit to the Cherokee National Forest.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information and Feedback

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Recreation Conditions Report

 Area Name Status Area Conditions
Shook Branch Beach   
Watauga Point Recreation Area   

Spotlights

Indian Boundary Recreation Area

If you are looking for a base camp to explore the vicinity or a destination campground with modern facilities and a family atmosphere, try Indian Boundary Recreation Area (IBRA), accessed off Cherohala Skyway.

Over 87 campsites are equipped with firerings, picnic tables, lantern posts and electrical hookups, with easy access to drinking water, showers, flush toilet facilities and an on-site dump station.

Day use facilities include a 96-acre lake, swim beach, small boat launch, accessible fishing pier and 3.6 mile hike/bike trail around the lake. Did you forget something? Don't sweat it! The Indian Boundary Outpost can meet your camping supply needs ranging from bread to firewood, as well as a souvenir for you to remember your trip to IBRA.

Indian Boundary Recreation Area Map

Indian Boundary Recreation Area Guide

Little Oak Campground

Looking to camp near a large lake? Try Little Oak Recreation Area, located on a peninsula along the eastern shore of South Holston Lake in Sullivan County. Here you can find a campground with limited day-use facilities. Most of the 68 universally-accessible sites have lake views and many have direct access. Little Oak is a designated Watchable Wildlife Area with two interpretive trails. A concrete boat ramp provides a popular launch site into South Holston Lake.