The fall leaves in east Tennessee have been showing off their colors more and more, so I decided to spend some time at the Hiwassee/Ocoee State Park. It was a beautiful day of autumn blue skies and full sun. When I got to the park the temperature was reaching into the 60’s so no jacket was required.
The Park is located near Delano, Tennessee…along the north side of the Hiwassee River just off of state highway 411 north of Benton, Tennessee. It is between the Chilhowee Mountain on the south side of the river and the Starr Mountain on the north side. The Park has 47 primitive campsites and also group camping areas. Some of these are located along the river where the sound of the water makes for a great sleeping experience! In addition, there is a bathhouse with hot showers located near the center of the campground.
While the major attraction of the Park is floating, canoeing, and rafting on the Hiawassee and Ocoee Rivers, it is also popular for fishing. People of all ages enjoy trying to catch large-mouth bass, yellow perch, catfish, and brown and rainbow trout that are in the local area. And then there’s the reason I go to the Park—to walk along the trails and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
The Park is also adjacent to the Gee Creek Wilderness Area which can be reached by a moderately easy hike. A hiking trail goes along the creek to a series of waterfalls.
There are many walking and hiking paths in the area, and a short distance away is a little more challenging hike that will take you up the side of the mountain to the bluffs. The view from the bluffs is amazing.
If you enjoy nature with great scenery, and you have the time to explore in this area, this Park is a wonderful experience that is hidden in the hills of southeast Tennessee.
