The best camping near Frozen Head State Park

An easy drive from Knoxville, Frozen Head State Park and Natural Area sprawls across more than 24,000 acres of wilderness and is named for a 3,324-foot peak in the Cumberland Mountains—the summit of which, true to its name, is often snow-covered in winter. The park boasts 50 miles of trails that weave in and out of its dense forest, most of which are for hiking only, although mountain biking is allowed on the Lookout Tower Trail leading to the Frozen Head summit. There are 20 rustic campsites in the Big Cove Camping Area and 10 designated backcountry sites.

1. Reservations are required for both Big Cove and the backcountry. Booking in advance is recommended.
2. Bookings can easily be secured online or by phone, up to one year in advance.
3. You can’t make same-day reservations online, but you can call to see if the sites have same-day availability.

The most popular time to visit is in spring and summer, so it’s a good idea to make reservations during that period. Frozen Head State Park is home to several waterfalls lying along trails. To see the falls at their best, head to the park during a wet period (most likely in fall or winter). Winter also has the appeal of seeing Frozen Head covered in snow and ice.

• Campfires must only be made with heat-treated wood (for sale in the park) or downed wood collected inside the park, near the campsite. Bringing untreated wood into the park is prohibited.
• A valid Tennessee fishing license and supplemental trout stamp are required to fish on Flat Fork Creek.
• Pets are welcome, as long as they are kept on a leash.
• You can pick up a map, and souvenirs, at the Visitor Center gift shop.