Favorite Camping Experience.

Carole and I have been on so many camping trips that sometimes they all seem to blur and we try to recall where and when we saw this or that view, or how we happened upon a certain swimming hole or kayaking run, or how we found a certain waterfall. And so on.

We have our memories and our photos and have considered what we think of as our favorites.

Recently we thought about the single best campground we've ever used, and without too much debate about it, we settled on Rock Creek Recreation Area. It's located in, and operated by, the Cherokee National Forest near Erwin, Tennessee. There is so much to see and do in and around the area that you could spend months there and still never exhaust the possibilities for outdoor adventures.

One thing that I have to say about the campground is that is is extremely popular. The locals are endeared to it and--since you cannot reserve a campsite--it can be exceedingly difficult to land a campsite. Even in the middle of the week you can find the place full. All sites are first-come, first-serve. So you just have to take a chance and ride in to see if a spot is available. If you do find one open, nab it and begin one of the finest camping experiences you will ever have.

Easily our all-time favorite campground. Fantastic amenities.

This little sheltered kiosk is unique in our camping experience. Most of the campsites had one.We used it to set up our propane stove for outdoor cooking.

The slope above our campsite.

It doesn't get any better.

Upper Rock Creek Falls. Just a short hike from the campground.

Campground entrance.