No access to Chilhowee Recreation Area and Forest Service Road #77

Beginning Monday, October 20, visitors will be unable to access the Chilhowee Recreation Area while a long-term improvement project begins that includes installation of dumpster pads for bear-proof dumpsters and widening and resurfacing existing roads within the recreation site. This Great American Outdoors Act project is expected to be completed prior to the summer recreation season in 2026. Visitors will also be unable to access the Chilhowee Campground and Chilhowee Day Use Area.

Additional construction work is planned for the Ocoee Scenic Byway, Forest Service Road #77, which will also result in interruptions to access.  Work is planned to be completed in phases to allow for intermittent access throughout the process. 

The gate will be closed at the intersection of Forest Service Road #77 and the entrance road that accesses the Chilhowee Recreation Area, restricting access to both Chilhowee Campground and Chilhowee Day Use including McKamy Lake and Benton Falls Trailhead. 

During the construction process, visitors can still access Benton Falls by following one of the detours on the Benton Falls Reroute Map. 

The public is advised to remain clear of the project work area at all times until the project is complete.