Quinn Springs Cherokee National Forest

Here I am getting excited about spring again. Quinn Springs in the Cherokee National Forest is in southeast Tennessee and within a reasonable driving distance of Etowah. Living in this region means able to take advantage of the great outdoors. This is just one example.

The Quinn Springs campground is super-easy to get to. Take Hwy. 411 onto Hwy. 30. At this point, the sign is just a couple of minutes ahead. The campground  is across the highway from the Hiwassee State Scenic river. 

Each of the 23 sites are well shaded and the entire campground was quiet while we were there. At $12 per night, camping at Quinn Springs is quite the bargain.  It had picnic tables, grills, drinking water and showers but no on electricity.

The Cherokee National Forest has an endless supply of recreation opportunities. When it comes to walking a distance I still have some issues so the trail here pretty much out for me. I understand that Oswald Dome Trail is a pretty strenuous undertaking. It's an in and out, backtrack trail and from where we stood the trail seemed to lead straight up the mountain. The trail starts at the Quinn Springs pavilion and is just under 4 miles.

The was plenty of parking when we were there but keep in mind, we were only at Quinn Springs for a weekday afternoon. Our goal was to get away for an afternoon, have a picnic and commune with nature. The pavilion and picnic area served our wants perfectly. I can imagine that it may be somewhat popular on weekends and holidays.  Overnighting at the campground is on my 'to-do' list for someday. It was so peaceful! The forest here is just as pretty as the glorious Nantahala National Forest (next).