Camping at the Obed

 

Planning on running the Obed, Clear Creek or Little Clear in the morning but dreading the long drive before and after? Want to get an early start in the morning? Coming in from out-of-town and do not want to drive to Oak Ridge, Harriman or Knoxville everyday after boating or climbing? Need to find a paddling partner or someone to run a shuttle at the last minute? Need some inside “beta” on the area?

Solution: plan on staying at Del and Marte Scruggs’ “Lilly Pad” campground. The Lilly Pad is a primitive campground located just up the hill from the Lilly Bridge making it convenient for boaters, climbers and hikers visiting the Obed. During the week you may have the place to yourself while on weekends expect a unique mix of folks that have an appreciation for the outdoors and particularly the Obed Wild and Scenic River. You will find an almost eternal fire at the “perma-tarp” to go along with the good company.

Amenities are few: a porta-pottie and campsites.

Plan on bringing: food, water and anything else you will need.

Additional info: Please read the rules when you come in and obey them. Del and his family live here. Please respect their privacy. The dogs bark but are harmless. The charge for camping is $3/person per night and $2/dog per night. Yes, your dog is welcome as long as it gets along with others.

How to get there: Easy! Get to Wartburg and follow the signs to the Lilly Bridge. The Lilly Pad is the last driveway on the right before the bridge. Have fun, paddle/climb safe and see you there.