About Horse Creek Pavilion DAY USE
Overview Horse Creek Pavilion is located eight miles from Greeneville, Tennessee. It is nestled into a hardwood cove beside its namesake, Horse Creek. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) constructed the pavilion during the 1930s.Recreation Hiking, water-play and fishing are popular activities. Scarlet Oak Trail (#181) is a .2 mile leg-stretcher through the forest bordering the recreation area. A more primitive hiking experience is available on three trails located in the nearby Sampson Mountain Wilderness. A small campground and more picnic sites are located in Horse Creek Recreation Area.Facilities The picnic pavilion has three tables and a paved parking area nearby. A large grill and water source is located at the pavilion. Additional tables are located nearby, as are trash containers and a pit toilet. The walkways and many of the sites are accessible; however the restroom has limited accessibility.Natural Features Horse Creek Pavilion is located close to Horse Creek and adjacent to Sampson Mountain Wilderness. It is located at the base of the Bald Mountains at an elevation of 1,720 feet. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (423) 638-4109. Nearby Attractions Horse Creek is located near historic Greeneville, Tennessee, home of Andrew Johnson, 17th President of the U.S. Tusculum College is located nearby. Founded in 1794, it is the oldest College in Tennessee. The Andrew Johnson Homestead and several museums are located in Greeneville/Tusculum. Hotels, restaurants, grocery stores and gas stations are nearby.
How to Get There
From Greeneville, take TN 107 north for six miles. Turn right at Horse Creek Road and follow the signs for about two miles to the recreation area.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Horse Creek Pavilion DAY USE
Heading to Horse Creek Pavilion DAY USE? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Horse Creek Pavilion DAY USE?
No central reservation system listed for Horse Creek Pavilion DAY USE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/123040) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Horse Creek Pavilion DAY USE?
From Greeneville, take TN 107 north for six miles. Turn right at Horse Creek Road and follow the signs for about two miles to the recreation area.
How do I contact Horse Creek Pavilion DAY USE?
You can reach the park at phone: (423)638-4109.
References & Official Resources
