Citico Creek Campsite 9

For those Tennesseans yearning for a true escape into the wild, away from the digital noise and urban sprawl, Citico Creek Campsite 9 in Vonore, TN, stands out as an exceptional choice. Nestled deep within the expansive beauty of the Cherokee National Forest, this particular campsite has earned a reputation among seasoned campers as a true gem, often dubbed the "BEST OF THEM ALL" among the Citico Creek campsites. If you're seeking a primitive, serene, and uniquely engaging outdoor experience, where the sounds of a flowing creek and the rustle of leaves replace the everyday cacophony, then Campsite 9 beckons.

Imagine a campsite where you have immediate, easy access to clean, flowing water, complete with a small rock island just across the creek and even a thrilling rope swing for a refreshing dip on a warm day. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's an immersive natural playground offering a level of tranquility and engagement that's hard to find. The site itself is thoughtfully situated for plenty of shade, ensuring a cool and comfortable experience even on sunny days, and boasts a level lot, making setup a breeze.

Reviews from real visitors consistently highlight the unparalleled benefits of this particular spot. Campers rave about the "easy water access (clean flowing water) and small rock island across from camp site an rope swing," solidifying its status as a prime location for water activities. The presence of "two-burning pits" is a definite plus, allowing for multiple cooking or gathering spots. While it’s a primitive site, meaning "NO TRASH BARRELS and NO BATHROOM," the sense of responsibility among campers is evident, with many emphasizing the importance of leaving the area in better shape than found. The "no fee" aspect is also a significant draw, making it an incredibly accessible option for budget-conscious adventurers. The low traffic volume ensures a peaceful experience, while the notes about cell service, nearby amenities, and the need for bug spray offer practical advice for a well-prepared trip. For those who love to fish, the evening hours at this spot are particularly recommended, if permitted.

Citico Creek Campsite 9 is situated in a truly picturesque and secluded part of Vonore, TN 37885, within the vast expanse of the Cherokee National Forest. Its location offers a deep immersion into nature, away from developed areas.

Access to Citico Creek Campsite 9, like many of the primitive sites along Citico Road, involves navigating scenic, mostly gravel forest roads. Citico Road itself branches off from State Route 360, which runs between Tellico Plains and Vonore. From Vonore, you would typically follow signs towards Citico Creek. The drive into the campsite can be an adventure in itself, with narrow sections and occasional potholes, as noted by visitors. It's essential to drive slowly and be aware of oncoming traffic, as the roadway can be tight in places.

The secluded nature of the site means there are "no stores, stations or shops near by," emphasizing the need to be fully self-sufficient. Furthermore, "no cell service" is a consistent feature of this area, which, for many, is a welcome detachment from digital life. This lack of connectivity ensures a genuine wilderness experience, allowing campers to truly disconnect and appreciate their surroundings. Visitors often advise arriving at a "reasonable time for a weekend trip or a potentially busy holiday," as the 14 different Citico Creek campsites along Citico Road operate on a first-come, first-serve basis, and the more desirable spots, like Campsite 9, tend to be taken quickly.

Citico Creek Campsite 9 is a quintessential primitive camping experience, offering fundamental amenities that encourage self-sufficiency and a deep connection with nature. Based on user reviews and the nature of these Forest Service sites, here’s what you can expect:

• Designated Campsite: The site offers a designated, level lot with plenty of shade, ideal for setting up tents or parking a small RV/camper.
• Multiple Fire Pits: Uniquely, this site comes with "two-burning pits," providing ample space for campfires, cooking, and gathering, which is a significant advantage for larger groups or varied cooking needs.
• Easy Water Access: A major highlight is the "easy water access" to Citico Creek. While the water is clean and flowing, it's crucial to remember that it is untreated creek water and should be filtered or boiled if intended for consumption.
• No Fees: A significant draw is that there is "no fee" to camp at Citico Creek Campsite 9, making it an incredibly accessible option for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts.
• No Trash Barrels: This is a crucial point: there are "NO TRASH BARRELS." Campers are required to practice "Leave No Trace" principles, meaning all trash, including "burnt wires, cans, cigarette butts," and any other refuse, must be packed out. Visitors are advised to "Take your yard cleaning hardware and trash bags" to ensure the site is left in better condition than found.
• No Bathroom Facilities: Similarly, there are "NO BATHROOM" facilities directly at the campsite. Campers should be prepared for primitive sanitation methods, such as digging cat holes away from water sources, trails, and campsites.
• Parking Space: The site offers "plenty of parking space," accommodating day visitors and overnight campers.

Citico Creek Campsite 9 stands out among other primitive campsites due to several unique features and natural highlights that enhance the camping experience:

• "Best Of Them All" Designation: This campsite is highly regarded by previous visitors, with one reviewer explicitly calling it the "BEST OF THEM ALL" among the Citico Creek campsites. This speaks to its desirable qualities and overall appeal.
• Exceptional Water Access: The primary highlight is the "easy water access (clean flowing water)" to Citico Creek. This allows for refreshing dips, wading, and the soothing sound of the creek right from your campsite.
• Rock Island and Rope Swing: A truly unique and engaging feature is the "small rock island across from camp site an rope swing." This provides an instant recreational opportunity, particularly appealing for families and those looking for fun in the water.
• Abundant Shade and Level Lot: The campsite is "nestled in the Forest with plenty of shade" and offers a "level lot." These practical features contribute significantly to a comfortable camping setup, protecting campers from direct sun and making tent or RV placement easier.
• Two Fire Pits: The inclusion of "two-burning pits" is a rare and highly advantageous feature for a primitive site. It allows for separate cooking and communal campfires, or simply more space for larger groups.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: For anglers, this is a prime spot. Reviews specifically mention that "If you love to fish, this is the spot come evening time (if permitted)." Citico Creek is known for its trout fishing.
• Low Traffic Volume: The "Low traffic volume" on the access road ensures a quieter, more secluded experience, enhancing the feeling of being truly removed from civilization.
• First-Come, First-Serve: While a challenge during peak times, the "first-come first-serve" nature of the 14 Citico Creek campsites means that if you arrive early enough, you can claim this highly sought-after spot without needing prior reservations or fees.

Citico Creek Campsite 9 operates as a primitive, free campsite within the Cherokee National Forest. As such, there are no specific "promotions or special offers" in the traditional commercial sense. The primary "offer" is the opportunity to experience a truly secluded and natural camping environment without any associated fees.

Key aspects related to cost and accessibility are:

• No Fee: As confirmed by reviews, there is "no fee" to camp at Citico Creek Campsite 9. This makes it an incredibly attractive option for budget-conscious campers.
• First-Come, First-Serve: All 14 Citico Creek campsites, including Campsite 9, are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. This means securing the site depends entirely on your arrival time, especially during weekends or holidays. It's advised to "arrive at a reasonable time for a weekend trip or a potentially busy holiday" to increase your chances of finding an open spot.

While there are no monetary discounts, the value lies in the free access to a stunning natural area with unique features like the rope swing and excellent creek access. Visitors should consult the official Cherokee National Forest website for any operational updates, alerts, or changes in regulations that might impact their visit, as conditions in national forests can change. This ensures you have the most up-to-date information for your free, primitive camping adventure.

Citico Creek Campsite 9 is a specific, undeveloped campsite within the vast Cherokee National Forest. As a primitive, "no fee" site, there is no direct contact number or staffed office located at the campsite itself. For inquiries related to the Citico Creek area or the Cherokee National Forest, the best contact points are through the U.S. Forest Service:

• Address: Citico Creek Campsite 9, Vonore, TN 37885, USA. Please understand this is a geographical marker for the location, not a physical office or visitor center.
• Cherokee National Forest - Tellico Ranger District: For general questions about camping regulations, current conditions, road access, or any alerts affecting the Citico Creek area, it's best to contact the relevant Ranger District. The Cherokee National Forest Supervisor's Office can be reached at (423) 476-9700. They can direct your call to the Tellico Ranger District or provide information directly.
• Online Resources: The official U.S. Forest Service website for the Cherokee National Forest (fs.usda.gov/cherokee) is the primary resource for comprehensive information, including maps, alerts, regulations, and details on dispersed camping. It's highly recommended to check this site before your trip for the most current information.

Given that there is "no cell service" at the campsite, ensure you have all necessary information, maps, and directions downloaded or printed before you leave an area with connectivity. Planning ahead is key to a safe and enjoyable primitive camping experience at Citico Creek Campsite 9.

For Tennesseans seeking an authentic, no-frills wilderness experience, Citico Creek Campsite 9 is not just suitable; it's an ideal, highly recommended destination. Its unique features, combined with its primitive nature, cater specifically to those who truly appreciate the raw beauty of the state's natural landscapes and are prepared for a self-reliant adventure.

The "no fee" aspect is a significant draw for locals, making a memorable outdoor escape incredibly accessible without the financial burden often associated with more developed campgrounds. This allows for spontaneous weekend trips or frequent visits for those who live nearby, fostering a deeper connection with their own backyard wilderness.

What truly sets Campsite 9 apart for Tennesseans is its unparalleled access to Citico Creek. The "easy water access," "clean flowing water," and especially the "small rock island across from camp site an rope swing" provide a natural playground that's perfect for escaping the summer heat or simply enjoying the tranquil sounds of the flowing water. This is an authentic Tennessee swimming hole experience, shared by generations of locals, right at your campsite.

The primitive nature, with "NO TRASH BARRELS and NO BATHROOM," is not a drawback for the seasoned Tennessee outdoors enthusiast; it's an invitation to practice true "Leave No Trace" principles. It reinforces a respectful relationship with the environment, encouraging visitors to be mindful stewards of the land. This self-sufficiency is a hallmark of true wilderness camping and aligns perfectly with the spirit of those who love Tennessee's wild places. The reminder to "Take your yard cleaning hardware and trash bags" is a call to communal responsibility, ensuring these cherished spots remain pristine for all.

Furthermore, the "no cell service" and distance from "stores, stations or shops" offer a complete digital detox. For locals burdened by constant connectivity, this is a rare opportunity to truly unplug, unwind, and reconnect with nature and their companions without interruption. The "low traffic volume" also contributes to this sense of serene seclusion, ensuring a quiet and peaceful retreat.

Whether you're an avid angler looking for "the spot" to fish in the evening, a family seeking a unique swimming adventure, or simply someone yearning for a tranquil campsite nestled in the shade with the soothing sounds of a creek, Citico Creek Campsite 9 delivers. It's a testament to the untamed beauty of the Cherokee National Forest, offering a free, fulfilling, and unforgettable primitive camping experience right here in Tennessee. It's a local secret worth sharing, provided everyone remembers to leave it better than they found it.