Camping - Rock Creek and Dennis Cove CNF (Erwin, Roan Mountain: cost, station)

[BP72]

Has anyone every camped at either Rock Creek (Erwin) or Dennis Cove (Hampton), Cherokee National Forest ran areas? We are going to North Carolina to camp soon and will try to hit these two areas after the NC trip. I seen the cost on the USDA.GOV site but not where to pay for camping. Do they have a station at the sites or do I have to go to the Ranger Station in Erwin?

[Nearing Retirement]

I too am anxious to read forthcoming replies. And, other recommendations regarding camping recommendation near the Tri-Cities.

[kamoshika]

I haven't camped at Rock Creek but I've walked through the campground several times, heading up to the waterfalls. Very clean and attractive place. I love the setting and highly recommend the recreation area overall.

In national forest campgrounds like Rock Creek, you just show up and find a campsite. You either pay at the unmanned kiosk or a ranger/campground host will come around to collect the fee.

FWIW, I really enjoyed camping at Cardens Bluff Campground on Watauga Lake a few years ago.

[BP72]

Thanks Kam. I guess the kiosk thing is like what they have at Roan Mountain beside the Ranger Shack.

Nearing, There is all types of Camping around. Just go to Google Maps and type in "Camping" and look around. Some places don't list websites though like one up in the middle of the Unaka Mountains. I am not sure who runs that one.

[TN.RidgerunninGal]

It has been a few years, but I have camped at Rock Creek and a Ranger came around in the evening to check on things and we paid him. I don't remember the fee, but it was nominal. Carden's Bluff on Watauaga lake is also a wonderful area to camp.