Southeast Tennessee · Where the Wild Still Lives

Salty Pines

Glamping Yurts, Van & Overland Sites, and Tent Camping on 14 Acres

Between the Ocoee & Hiwassee Rivers · Gateway to Cherokee National Forest · Polk County, TN

Come for the mountains. Stay because of the crew.

Reserve Your Stay

Our Land

Wild, Honest & Beautifully Remote

Nestled at the convergence of Tennessee, North Carolina, and Georgia in Polk County, Salty Pines sits on 14 untamed acres surrounded by some of the most storied wilderness in the Southern Appalachians. Minutes from the Ocoee River's legendary whitewater and the Hiwassee River's world-class fishing, and right at the gateway to Cherokee National Forest. This is the real thing — not a resort, not a theme park. Just land, sky, water, and fire.

Salty Pines was born when three best friends — Taylor, Tiki, and Tighe — traded the coast for the mountains. Between them, Key West, FL and Hilton Head Island, SC. They packed up the salt air, pointed inland, and built every inch of this place themselves. No contractors. No heavy machines. Just three best friends with a vision, a lot of blisters, and a deep belief that the best places are the ones someone poured their heart into.

We're young, we're passionate, and we genuinely love every person who walks through that gate. Come meet the crew — we have a feeling you won't want to leave.

14 Acres of Tennessee Wilderness
Ocoee River — legendary whitewater Hiwassee River — fishing paradise Cherokee National Forest — at your door TN · NC · GA tri-state border

The Humans Behind It All

Meet the Crew

We're not a faceless campground. We're three friends who built this place and live it every day. Between us, we know every trail, every fishing hole, every hidden restaurant and every shop worth walking into. Ask us anything — we mean that.

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🛍️ Shopping · Dining · Nightlife

Taylor

Want to know the best restaurants, hidden bars, local boutiques, and where to grab the best coffee in the Copper Basin? Taylor is your person. She knows every shop worth browsing in McCaysville, every patio worth sitting on in Copperhill, and every spot worth driving to in Blue Ridge. Just ask — she'll have you sorted with a full itinerary before you finish unpacking.

Local Dining Guide Shopping & Boutiques Hidden Gems
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🥾 Hiking · Mountain Biking

Tiki

If it has a trail, Tiki has ridden or hiked it. From beginner-friendly walks to serious backcountry routes through the Cherokee National Forest, he knows every switchback, every view, and every hidden waterfall in the area. Looking for the best mountain biking in SE Tennessee? He's got the beta. Just say the word and he'll put together the perfect day on two feet or two wheels.

Trail Expert Mountain Biking Cherokee National Forest
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🎣 Fishing · Gear Rentals

Tighe

The Hiwassee River is one of the finest tailwater trout fisheries in the Southeast — and Tighe knows every run, every hole, and every hatch on it. Whether you're a seasoned fly angler or have never held a rod, he'll put you on fish. Don't have gear? No problem — Tighe can set you up with everything you need right here on the property. No need to stop anywhere else.

Fishing Guide Gear Rentals On Site Hiwassee River Expert

On Site Rentals & Extras

Forget Something? We've Got You.

We keep a full stock of gear available to rent or borrow right on site. No need to drive to town — just ask.

🎣Fishing Gear
🪑Camp Chairs
🧊Coolers
☕Camp Coffee Pot
🪵Firewood Bundles
🍳Cast Iron Cookware
💡Lanterns & Headlamps
🏕️Folding Tables
🔦Flashlights
🧴Bug Spray & Sunscreen
🪓Hatchet & Fire Starters
🍽️Camp Utensil Sets

Just ask at check in — we'll sort you out. 🤙

Ways to Stay

Choose Your Basecamp

From elevated comfort to boots-in-the-dirt adventure — every site at Salty Pines puts you closer to the forest, the river, and the stars.

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Glamping Yurts

Spacious canvas yurt tents on raised wooden decks in the Tennessee mountains — complete with a real bed and fully furnished interior. Winter yurts are equipped with a wood burning stove to keep you warm after a cold day on the trail. Wake up to birdsong and mountain mist, steps from Cherokee National Forest.

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Van & Overland Sites

Pull-in sites built for overlanders, van-lifers, and off-road rigs in SE Tennessee. Level pads, open skies, and direct access to Ocoee River whitewater and Hiwassee River trail corridors. And if your rig gives you trouble on the road, we've got a full set of tools on site and a neighbor who can help with just about anything.

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Tent Camping

Primitive tent sites tucked under the pines near the Ocoee and Hiwassee rivers. Peaceful, private, and priced right for adventurers who came to Cherokee National Forest for the dirt, not the decor.

On Property

The Good Stuff

Between the rapids of the Ocoee River and the calm bends of the Hiwassee River in Polk County, Tennessee, Salty Pines is your basecamp for whitewater rafting, hiking, fishing, mountain biking, and everything the Cherokee National Forest has to offer. Turtletown Falls is just 10 minutes away. The legendary Blue Hole swimming area on the Ocoee — just 20 minutes from Salty Pines — is a series of deep crystal clear natural pools with underwater rock tunnels you can swim through, right next to the historic cable bridge from the 1996 Olympics, with miles of pet friendly hiking trails along the river. The Appalachian Trail runs right through this corner of the Southern Appalachians, making Salty Pines a perfect basecamp for thru-hikers and AT section hikers alike. Just a short drive from Chattanooga, Cleveland TN, Ducktown, and Reliance TN — a quick 30-minute drive to the charming mountain shops and restaurants of Blue Ridge, GA — and just 30 minutes to Harrah's Cherokee Valley River Casino in Murphy, NC. Just 10 minutes away, Fields of the Wood Bible Park is a free, breathtaking 200-acre outdoor biblical park featuring the world's largest display of the Ten Commandments — a deeply moving experience for people of faith. Sitting right on the Tennessee, Georgia, and North Carolina tri-state border, we're the perfect home base for everything the Southern Appalachians have to offer.

Blue Hole Ocoee Swimming 1996 Olympic Cable Bridge Ocoee Whitewater Rafting Hiwassee Fishing Cherokee National Forest Hiking & Backpacking Mountain Biking Wildlife Watching Stargazing Rock Climbing Swimming Holes Turtletown Falls Appalachian Trail Fields of the Wood Bible Park Near Blue Ridge GA Near Murphy NC Casino Near Chattanooga Polk County TN TN · NC · GA Border

Everyone's Welcome

Who Comes to Salty Pines

From honeymooners to hardcore overlanders, fly fishers to digital nomads — Salty Pines was built for people who want more out of a trip than a parking lot and a power hookup.

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Couples & Romantic Getaways

A private yurt in the Tennessee mountains, a fire crackling outside your door, stars you can actually see — Salty Pines is one of the most romantic getaways in the Southeast. Whether it's a first trip together or a tenth anniversary, this place has a way of slowing everything down and making everything better. No crowds, no noise, just the two of you and 14 acres of wild.

Romantic Glamping Tennessee Couples Getaway SE Tennessee Honeymoon Camping Tennessee
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Families & Kids

Salty Pines is where kids put the screens down and don't even notice. Swim in the Blue Hole, hike a trail, catch a fish, roast marshmallows over a fire — all within 20 minutes of the campsite. The property is safe, welcoming, and built for families who want a real outdoor experience together. Pets welcome too, which means the whole family makes the trip.

Family Camping Ocoee River Kid Friendly Glamping Tennessee Family Outdoor Adventure SE Tennessee
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Digital Nomads & Remote Workers

Starlink on site means you've got fast, reliable internet in the middle of the Cherokee National Forest. Take your morning calls from a yurt deck. Work through lunch. Then close the laptop and be on the Ocoee by 3pm. Salty Pines is the original work-from-anywhere setup — mountain air, zero commute, and the kind of reset your brain has been begging for.

Work From Anywhere Tennessee Digital Nomad Camping Remote Work Glamping WiFi Camping Tennessee
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First Time Campers

Never camped before? Salty Pines is the perfect place to start. Hot showers, flushing toilets, a real bed in your yurt, gear rentals on site, and a crew who genuinely loves helping first-timers have an incredible experience. We'll make sure you have everything you need and none of the stress. You'll leave wondering why you waited so long.

Beginner Glamping Tennessee First Time Camping Tennessee Easy Camping SE Tennessee
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For the Professionals

Guides Welcome

Whitewater guides, kayak instructors, raft captains — if the Ocoee or Hiwassee is your office, Salty Pines is your home base.

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Monthly Rates

Seasonal and monthly stays available for working guides. Lock in your spot for the whole season and stop worrying about where you're sleeping after a long day on the water.

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A Community of Your Own

We came from Key West and Hilton Head — so trust us, we know laid back. No rigid rules, no corporate nonsense, no one breathing down your neck. Just good people, cold drinks, a fire going, and the kind of easy camaraderie you only find when everyone around you lives for the water. Pull up, exhale, and stay a while. You're among your people.

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Everything You Need

Hot showers, Starlink, outdoor kitchen, fire rings, and private shower stalls. Gear storage, a safe vehicle, and a bed after a big day — that's what we're here for.

Inquire About Guide Rates

20 Minutes Away

The Copper Basin — Two States, One Epic Town

McCaysville, GA and Copperhill, TN are twin towns split by a state line — and just 20 minutes from your campsite at Salty Pines. One of the most unique and charming destinations in the entire Southeast.

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Craft Breweries

Copperhill Brewery sits right on the famous Blue Line — order a pint with one foot in Tennessee and the other in Georgia. Buck Bald Brewing is another local favorite. Both pour exceptional craft beers with mountain views to match.

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Shops & Boutiques

The Riverwalk Shops on the Toccoa River feature riverfront restaurants and a revitalized complex of boutiques, galleries, and eclectic stores. Antiques, art, gifts, vinyl, locally made goods — you'll want to budget a few hours here.

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Live Music & Dining

Horseshoe Bend Park hosts Pickin' in the Park every Thursday evening May through September — free live bluegrass and acoustic music on the river. Grab a table at The Waterfront Bar in Copperhill for craft cocktails and river views that'll make you forget you're in the mountains.

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Stand in Two States

The famous Blue Line runs right through the center of town — put one foot in Georgia, one in Tennessee and snap the photo. It sounds simple. Everyone loves it. A genuine bucket list moment hiding in plain sight 20 minutes from your campfire.

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Hiwassee River Rail Adventure

One of the most spectacular train rides in the Southeast — and it departs right from your backyard. The Hiwassee Loop is a 50-mile round trip through the Hiwassee River Gorge featuring a rare spiral loop where the train literally crosses over itself as it corkscrews up the mountain near Farner, TN. One of only 6 such loops in all of North America, and the only one east of the Mississippi. Want the full day? Book the Copperhill Special — a 94-mile round trip with a 90-minute layover in Copperhill and McCaysville to eat, shop, and stand on the state line. Departing from Delano, TN — just minutes from Salty Pines.

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Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

The beloved vintage scenic railway runs from Blue Ridge, GA to McCaysville/Copperhill seasonally — a stunning ride along the Toccoa River through North Georgia mountain scenery. Perfect for families, couples, and anyone who wants a slow, beautiful afternoon in the mountains. Combine it with lunch in McCaysville for the perfect day trip from Salty Pines.

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Food & Coffee

Rum Cake Lady brings authentic Cuban sandwiches, empanadas and cafecito to a classic old gas station. Yellowbird Coffee is in a converted bank building near the old steel bridge. The Copper Grill serves hearty burgers and Southern comfort — with the state line running right through the dining room.

McCaysville GA Copperhill TN Copper Basin Blue Line State Border Copperhill Brewery Buck Bald Brewing Riverwalk Shops Hiwassee River Rail Adventure Hiwassee Loop Train Copperhill Special Train Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Pickin' in the Park Toccoa River Stand in Two States

20 Minutes Away

The Blue Hole — Nature's Perfect Swimming Hole

One of the most stunning natural swimming spots in the entire Southeast — and it's practically in your backyard. The Blue Hole on the Ocoee River is the kind of place people drive hours to find. You'll roll up in 20 minutes.

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Crystal Clear Natural Pools

The Blue Hole is a series of deep, impossibly clear natural swimming pools carved into the Ocoee River bedrock — fed by cold mountain water rushing off the Cherokee National Forest. Dive in, float around, or explore the underwater rock tunnels that connect the pools. The water is so clear you can see straight to the bottom. It's the kind of place that makes you feel like a kid again — and dogs absolutely love it too.

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1996 Olympic History

Right next to the Blue Hole stands the iconic suspension cable bridge — a relic of the 1996 Atlanta Summer Olympics, where the world watched the best whitewater paddlers on the planet compete on the Ocoee River. Walk across it. Take the photo. Feel the history. This stretch of river changed whitewater sports forever.

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Pet Friendly Trails

Miles of hiking trails run alongside the Ocoee River right from the Blue Hole — all pet friendly. Bring the dogs, hit the trail, cool off in the pools, repeat. Gator and Captain Brody have already given it their seal of approval. One of the best hike-and-swim combos in Tennessee.

Blue Hole Ocoee Ocoee River Swimming 1996 Olympic Bridge Pet Friendly Swimming Ocoee River Hiking Natural Swimming Holes Tennessee Cherokee National Forest Swimming Dog Friendly Hiking Tennessee
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Two Wheels Welcome

Rider's Paradise

Salty Pines sits at the center of some of the greatest motorcycle roads in North America. Unpack your gear, rest your legs, and ride a different legendary road every single day.

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Cherohala Skyway

Rated one of the top 10 motorcycle rides in North America, this 43-mile National Scenic Byway winds through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests, cresting above 5,400 feet with sweeping curves, panoramic ridgeline views, and almost no traffic. Often called motorcycling's best kept secret — and it's right in your backyard from Salty Pines.

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Tail of the Dragon

US-129 at Deals Gap — 318 curves in 11 miles. One of the most famous motorcycle roads on the planet, just a short ride from Salty Pines. Combine it with the Cherohala for a full day loop that riders travel from across the country to experience.

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Ocoee Scenic Byway

The first designated National Forest Scenic Byway in the United States runs right through our backyard along Highway 64 through the Ocoee River Gorge — tight curves hugging rock bluffs with the river rushing alongside you the whole way. This one never gets old.

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Break Down? No Sweat.

We keep a full set of tools on the property — because when you're deep in the mountains, the last thing you need is to be stranded without help. If we can't sort it out ourselves, our neighbor can. You're in good hands at Salty Pines. Ride and drive with confidence.

Cherohala Skyway Tail of the Dragon Ocoee Scenic Byway Cherokee National Forest Riding Motorcycle Camping SE Tennessee Top 10 Motorcycle Roads USA

Got Questions?

Everything You Need to Know

We're tucked into 14 acres in Polk County, SE Tennessee — right on the border of Tennessee, North Carolina, and Georgia. We sit between the Ocoee and Hiwassee Rivers and serve as the gateway to Cherokee National Forest. We're about 30 minutes from Blue Ridge, GA, 30 minutes from Murphy, NC, and roughly an hour from Chattanooga, TN, and about 2 hours from Knoxville, TN.

We offer three ways to stay: Glamping Yurts on raised wooden decks with a real bed and furnished interior — during the winter season our yurts are equipped with a wood burning stove to keep you warm and cozy — Van & Overland sites for rooftop tents, overlanders, and van-lifers — and primitive Tent Camping sites for those who want the full back-to-basics experience.

Yes — we have Starlink on site so you're covered. That said, we're in the mountains so unplug from life, not the internet. The choice is yours. Cell service can be spotty in parts of the property depending on your carrier, so Starlink is your best bet for reliable connection.

Absolutely. We have a full bathhouse with hot showers and flushing toilets, plus private outdoor shower stalls scattered throughout the property so you never have to walk far after a long day on the river. No roughing it required.

Yes! Every site has its own designated fire ring. We sell firewood bundles on site — please do not bring your own firewood from home. This helps us protect the property from invasive insects and species not native to the area. It's a small thing that makes a big difference for the land. Quiet hours are 10pm–8am. Just be mindful of any active burn bans in Polk County during dry seasons.

You're in one of the most adventure-rich corners of the Southeast. Whitewater rafting and kayaking on the Ocoee River, world-class fishing on the Hiwassee, hiking and backpacking in Cherokee National Forest, the Appalachian Trail, Turtletown Falls just 10 minutes away, mountain biking, rock climbing, swimming holes, and stargazing. For people of faith, Fields of the Wood Bible Park is just 10 minutes away — a free, awe-inspiring 200-acre outdoor biblical park featuring the world's largest Ten Commandments. For a change of pace, Blue Ridge GA and Harrah's Cherokee Valley River Casino in Murphy NC are both 30 minutes away.

Yes — and honestly one of our favorite times of year. The yurts have wood burning stoves that keep you incredibly warm. The crowds thin out, the forest gets quiet, and there's nothing like a fire after a cold hike through the Appalachians. Just pack layers.

Three best friends — Taylor, Tiki, and Tighe. We all lived on the coast (Key West, FL and Hilton Head Island, SC) before trading salt air for mountain streams. We built every inch of this property ourselves — no contractors, no heavy machines. Just a vision, a lot of blisters, and a deep love for the outdoors.

Yes and we love it. If you're a whitewater guide, kayak instructor, or raft captain working the Ocoee or Hiwassee season, Salty Pines is your home base. We offer monthly rates, a genuinely laid back atmosphere, Starlink, hot showers, communal kitchen, and a community of people who get it. Reach out to us directly to ask about guide rates.

We're listed on HipCamp — just click the Book Your Stay button anywhere on this page and you'll be taken directly to our listing. You can browse available sites, check dates, and reserve your spot right there. Have questions before booking? Reach out to us directly.

Absolutely — all pets are welcome! We're a pet friendly property and we love seeing four-legged guests. Just clean up after your animals and keep them from disturbing other campers. Gator, our big fluffy German Shepherd, and Captain Brody, our 20 pound Boston Terrier, will probably both come say hello. 🐾

Check in is at 4:00 PM and check out is at 11:00 AM. We're a one night minimum stay so whether you're here for a night or the whole season, you're welcome. Need to arrange something different? Just reach out and we'll do our best to accommodate.

The road into Salty Pines is gravel but totally manageable in a standard 2WD vehicle. No high clearance required. That said, if you're rolling in an overland rig or lifted 4x4, you'll feel right at home. The nearest gas and groceries are in Ducktown, TN — stock up before you arrive!

The Ocoee Adventure Center is just 15 minutes away, plus many more outfitters running trips on the Ocoee River — one of the most famous whitewater rivers in the Southeast and site of the 1996 Olympic whitewater events. First timers and seasoned paddlers are both well taken care of. Pro tip — check with us before you book a rafting trip! We're constantly receiving discount offers from local outfitters exclusively for our guests. It's one of the reasons so many people keep coming back to Salty Pines. 🚣

Also From the Crew

The Château

Want four walls, a hot tub, and a full kitchen? Just a short drive from Salty Pines sits The Château — a private 3 bed / 2 bath cabin on 4 secluded acres in SE Tennessee. All the adventure, with a little more comfort waiting at the end of the day.

3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms 4 Acres Sleeps Groups

A Private Mountain Cabin Like No Other

The Château is a fully equipped private cabin nestled on 4 acres in SE Tennessee — just a short drive from Salty Pines and everything the Ocoee and Hiwassee have to offer. Whether you're a large group wanting space to spread out, a family that wants a real kitchen and real beds, or a couple looking for a luxurious mountain escape with a hot tub under the stars — The Château has you covered.

Book directly by emailing us at [email protected] — we'll take care of everything.

Inquire About The Château

What's Included

  • ♨️Private hot tub — soak under the Tennessee stars
  • 🍳Full kitchen — cook your catch, feed your crew
  • 🔥Fire pit — every great night ends around a fire
  • 🐾Pet friendly — bring the whole family
  • 📶WiFi — stay connected or don't, your call
  • 👕Washer & Dryer — perfect for longer stays
  • 🌲4 private acres — room to breathe and explore
  • 🏔️Minutes from Ocoee, Hiwassee & Cherokee National Forest
Cabin Rental SE Tennessee Tennessee Mountain Cabin Private Cabin Hot Tub Tennessee Pet Friendly Cabin Tennessee Group Cabin Rental Tennessee Cabin Near Ocoee River Vacation Rental Polk County TN Tennessee Cabin Airbnb Alternative

Ready to Get Out There?

Reservations now open · Limited sites available

We built this place with our own hands because we wanted somewhere worth coming back to. We hope you feel that when you're here. — Taylor, Tiki & Tighe

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