(Hakata)

Hakata means clearing in the woods. It is also the name of our nation's "Tribal Grounds". This was an old Overhill village site. The stone where the women of the village ground their corn is still visible. The location is in the heart of the old Cherokee territory.

Besides having our Nation's Gatherings here, the site is also available to members of the Overhill Nation for camping or picnicing, etc.

There is a permanent pavilion located near the creek. The old corn-grinding stone is behind the pavilion. It looks like a bowl carved into the rock.

Currently, there are no electrical or water hookups for RVs at Hakata, so if you want to RV camp there, need to be self-contained. (Electrical power may be brought in at some point in the future.)

There are several Cherokee historical sites within easy driving distance from Hakata, such as the Sequoyah Museum, Fort Loudon, Chota, etc.

There are stores in the area (gas and food within a couple of miles, Wal Mart about 10 miles, etc.)

If you would like to use Hakata, contact Man Many Trees ahead of time (423-295-2788). After all, you might not want to be setting up camp when an important ceremony is scheduled, for example.

Hakata is located on Back Creek, behind Strong Heart's home off of Old Loudon Road. Directions are given below, but out of respect fof Strong Heart and his family, please don't just show up without calling the Chief first (423-295-2788)

From Knoxville or Chattanooga:
From Interstate 75 take 72 East (Loudon exit). Travel 13.4 miles then turn right on 322.
Travel 1.8 miles then turn left onto Old Loudon Rd (Oak Grove) which is County Road 337
Travel .3 miles and turn right on Old Loudon Road.
Travel .9 miles to 285 Old Loudon Rd.

From Madisonville or Maryville:
Take 411 to 72 and go West past 2 traffic lights. Turn left on 322.
Travel 1.8 miles then turn left onto Old Loudon Rd (Oak Grove) which is County Road 337
Travel .3 miles and turn right on Old Loudon Road.
Travel .9 miles to 285 Old Loudon Rd.