If you want an easy basecamp for exploring the Cherohala Skyway and Cherokee National Forest, the Tellico Plains KOA is a good choice. It’s a tidy, small-ish park with a friendly, low-key vibe—more “mountain gateway” than resort. Sites are generally level and well-kept, with the typical KOA setup (picnic table, fire ring), and the bathhouse and laundry were clean during my stay. Wi?Fi was fine for basics; I wouldn’t count on heavy streaming.
You’re just a few minutes from Tellico Plains and right on the road to Bald River Falls, Indian Boundary, and a bunch of trailheads and trout water on the Tellico River. It’s a popular stop for motorcyclists running the Cherohala and, a bit farther out, the Tail of the Dragon, so weekends can bring some bike traffic. The tradeoff for convenience is that sites aren’t super private, and you may catch a little road noise, but interior roads are easy to navigate and most rigs will be comfortable.
Overall, it’s great for travelers who want clean amenities, helpful hosts, and a hassle-free base near the forest. Families and touring riders seemed equally at home. If you’re after deep-woods solitude, a nearby Forest Service campground might suit you better; if you want hot showers, a small camp store, and reliable hookups at the edge of big scenery, this KOA hits the sweet spot—just expect KOA-level pricing.
Tellico Plains KOA
1301 Mecca Pike
Tellico Plains, Tennessee 37385
Telephone: (423) 253-3513
Website: https://koa.com/campgrounds/tellico-plains/
