Chestoa Rec area closed for overnight use

Published 1:49 pm Wednesday, July 20, 2022

On July 7, U.S. Forest Service officials closed the Chestoa Recreation Area and the surrounding area for overnight use. Day use activities are still open to the public.

When the Chestoa Recreation Area was first opened, it was intended for day-use activities such as picnicking, hiking, all-terrain vehicle access and to access the Nolichucky River for river play (fishing, kayaking, etc.). Over time, it unintentionally became an overnight camping area, creating a significant health and safety concern and impacting the natural resources.

We would like to remind visitors of the Forest Order that prohibits camping and overnight use within the administrative boundary of Chestoa Recreation Area as well as overnight-use within Chestoa Recreation Area and the area of National Forest System Lands opposite of the Nolichucky River, along Unaka Springs Road.

The Chestoa Recreation Area, located on the banks of the Nolichucky River, has long served as a popular destination for families, picnickers, hikers, anglers, and white-water enthusiasts alike. The serene setting of the Nolichucky River provides for an amazing backdrop for recreationists and visitors.