Trail Overview

Little Dam Road - FS 651A is a short, easy 1/10 spur road off Persimmon Trail that quickly leads to Persimmon Dam featuring a waterfall-style spillway. This drive brings you to a quiet, scenic spot with direct water access and peaceful surroundings. Persimmon Dam (also known as Persimmon Creek Dam) is a concrete arch structure built in 1942. It stands 33 feet high and impounds Cherokee Lake, commonly referred to as Persimmon Lake — a small, attractive reservoir nestled alongside Persimmon Creek. The location is excellent for fishing, with good opportunities for bass, trout, and other species in Persimmon Lake (Cherokee Lake) right at the dam and in the adjacent waters. Hiking is also popular, including the Lake Cherokee Trail and shoreline paths that offer pleasant walks with views of the dam and surrounding forest. It’s an ideal, family-friendly destination for a short drive, fishing, picnicking, or an easy hike in a tranquil setting.

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Difficulty

A well-maintained gravel road.

Technical Rating

Ken Briden

Sep 14, 2026

2025 Jeep Gladiator

Open

Normal

Easy campsite that’s off the beaten path but quickly accessible if you’re looking for a place to camp along Hwy 74. I was pleasantly surprised of how peaceful it was. There were a couple of 4x4 accessible trails at the end of the right fork where you can be off the beaten path even more. There are a couple of tent sights down towards the lake. But for the roof top tent I just backed up near the dam and enjoyed the waterfall all night. Great place to fish in times past from what the locals say. Sunset is also quite beautiful. Was more than I was expecting. I was just passing through to see my kids in South Carolina. So just needed a place to rest my head. Definitely a gem.