Lake City is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Lake City and user-submitted reviews.
The west side has 50 sites with water and electric hook-up. The west side also has three paved sites suitable for persons with disabilities. If reserved, proper identification will be required upon check-in.
To get to the West Campground
From I-75 take Exit 128 (Rocky Top) and turn left onto US-441 S (Hwy. 61) for 2.8 miles until you see the stone entrance sign for Norris Dam State Park and turn left. Follow the signs to the campground, which will have you take your first left at the yellow gates. Follow the road for one mile to the west campground. ***Please use caution, the road leading to the campground is steep with dangerous curves.
Welcome to Cove Lake State Park Campground, a gem nestled in the mountains of Tennessee. This spot is perfect for those who love a mix of nature and convenience. The campground is open year-round, so whether you're a summer sun-seeker or a winter wanderer, you can always find a place here.
One of the standout features of this campground is its proximity to the lake. Many sites, like the popular #27, offer stunning lake views and are shaded by towering pines. It's a peaceful setting where you can enjoy the quiet, interrupted only by the occasional bird song. If you're into fishing or kayaking, you'll love the easy access to the water.
The campground is also big-rig friendly, making it a great choice for RV travelers. You'll find electric hookups, drinking water, and a sanitary dump station to make your stay comfortable. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
Visitors have praised the friendly and helpful staff, who are always ready to assist, even after hours. The bathhouses are generally clean and conveniently located near many sites. There's also a camp store at the front of the park where you can stock up on essentials like firewood and ice.
For families, the playground and open fields provide plenty of space for kids to run around and play. And if you're looking to explore, the Devil's Backbone section of the Cumberland Trail is nearby, offering some beautiful hiking opportunities.
Overall, Cove Lake State Park Campground is a fantastic spot for a relaxing getaway, with plenty of amenities and natural beauty to enjoy. Whether you're here for a quick overnight stay or a longer vacation, you'll find it a welcoming and enjoyable place to camp.
$25 - $55 / night
Frozen Head State Park Campground, nestled near Wartburg, TN, is a gem for those who appreciate a quieter, more intimate camping experience. This place is perfect for tent campers and overland rigs, thanks to its smaller sites and narrow roads that keep the big RVs at bay. The campground operates from March 15 to November 1, offering a serene escape during these months.
One of the standout features here is the cleanliness. Visitors rave about the immaculate restrooms and heated showers—so hot, you might think your flip-flops are melting! The campground also has a sanitary dump, drinking water, and firewood available, making it convenient for extended stays.
Families will love the playground and the creek at the bottom of the hill, which is close enough for easy access but far enough to keep the noise at a minimum. There's even a free book swap hut, a charming little building where you can take or leave a book. It's a nice touch that adds to the community feel of the place.
For those who enjoy hiking, the park offers some fantastic trails, including a lovely waterfall hike. The park rangers are known to organize kids' activities and make rounds to ensure everyone has what they need. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.
While there's no Verizon service at the campground, you can catch a bar at the visitor center, just a short bike ride away. If you're planning a visit, try to snag site 14—it's a favorite among regulars. Whether you're here for the hiking, the peaceful atmosphere, or just a weekend getaway, Frozen Head State Park Campground won't disappoint.
If you want to be surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the Southeastern United States, plan a stay with at Loyston Point. TVA offers hundreds of campsites among its six dam reservoir campgrounds, available from mid-March to mid-November.
All six campgrounds are now managed by Recreation Resource Management (RRM) under a concessionaire agreement with TVA. This has allowed an expansion of services that includes new campground stores, wireless access, an online reservation system and more.
Welcome to Big Ridge State Park Campground, nestled near Maynardville, TN. This spot is a gem for those who love the great outdoors. Open all year round, it offers a mix of tent, RV, cabin, and even glamping accommodations.
One of the standout features here is the easy access to Norris Lake. Whether you're into fishing, boating, or just soaking in the views, the lake is a short walk from many campsites. Some visitors have mentioned that the sites are nicely spaced and angled, making it a breeze to park and set up.
For those who like to stay connected, be aware that T-Mobile service can be a bit spotty. But hey, isn't that part of the charm of getting away from it all? The campground also has electric hookups and drinking water, which are always a plus.
If you're into hiking, you're in luck. There are several trails nearby, ranging from easy to moderate. One popular route is the loop that includes the Lake Trail, Dark Hollow Trail, and Big Valley Trail. It's a great way to explore the park and get a bit of exercise.
Families will appreciate the playground and picnic tables scattered around. Pets are welcome too, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Just remember, no alcohol is allowed on the premises.
The shower house could use an upgrade, but it's functional. And if you're planning a longer stay, there's a sanitary dump station available. Firewood can be purchased on-site, and campfires are allowed, making it easy to enjoy a cozy evening under the stars.
So pack your bags, grab your gear, and head over to Big Ridge State Park Campground for a memorable outdoor experience.
$8 - $100 / night
Melton Hill Dam Campground, managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), is a gem near Lenoir City, TN. This spot is open year-round and offers a mix of tent and RV accommodations. It's a great place for families and solo campers alike, with plenty of amenities to make your stay comfortable.
One of the standout features here is the friendly and accommodating staff. Visitors have praised them for their helpfulness, especially when it comes to finding the right site for your needs. Speaking of sites, they vary in size, so if you have a larger tent or RV, you might want to double-check the dimensions before settling in. Some sites come with electric and sewer hookups, which is a big plus for RV campers.
The campground is right by the Tennessee River, offering beautiful views and a designated swimming area. If you're into water sports, you'll appreciate the boat ramp on-site. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are picnic tables and fire pits at each site, perfect for a cozy evening by the fire.
The bathhouses are a bit of a mixed bag. While some campers have noted they could use a bit more cleaning, others found them adequate. The TVA is working on adding another bathhouse, which should help alleviate any congestion.
Cell coverage can be spotty, so be prepared to unplug and enjoy the natural beauty around you. The campground is also close to various amenities in Lenoir City, making it easy to stock up on supplies or grab a bite to eat.
Overall, Melton Hill Dam Campground offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of activities to keep you busy. Whether you're here for a weekend or an extended stay, you'll find it a welcoming place to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.
$18 - $31 / night
Cades Cove Campground, located near Townsend, TN, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Open from March 11 to October 31, this campground offers a range of accommodations including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and even glamping options.
One of the standout features here is the proximity to the Cades Cove Loop, a scenic drive that’s a hit with visitors. You can expect to see plenty of wildlife, including turkeys, bears, and coyotes. The campground itself is pretty quiet, especially at night, making it a great place to hear the sounds of nature.
The campground has flush toilets, potable water at the toilet facilities, and a sanitary dump station. While there are no showers or sewer hookups, the convenience of having a camp store on-site makes up for it. You can grab essentials like firewood and ice without having to leave the campground.
For those who love biking, the campground offers bike rentals, and the loop is perfect for a leisurely ride. If hiking is more your speed, there are plenty of trails nearby to explore. Just be aware that cell service is spotty, so it’s a good idea to bring a book or download some shows ahead of time.
Visitors have mentioned that the sites are a bit close together, but the overall experience of being so close to nature more than makes up for it. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Cades Cove Campground provides a great base for exploring the Smokies.
$30 / night
Bandy Creek is a spacious and modern campground, situated in The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area--a vast and scenic expanse of land that offers visitors countless recreational activities.
Numerous trails snake through the Recreation Area, offering mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding for visitors. A swimming pool, along with on-site volleyball court, playgrounds and ball fields, make Bandy Creek an ideal spot for families. The main river of the Big South Fork is also a short drive away, offering fishing opportunities.
Numerous trails snake through the Recreation Area, offering mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding for visitors. A swimming pool, along with on-site volleyball court, playgrounds and ball fields, make Bandy Creek an ideal spot for families. The main river of the Big South Fork is also a short drive away, offering fishing opportunities.
The Big South Fork is located in north central Tennessee and southeastern Kentucky in some of the most rugged terrain of the Cumberland Plateau. The park encompasses approximately 125,000 acres including rocky gorges and forested plateaus. Numerous pristine streams unite with the free-flowing Big South Fork of the Cumberland River. Over thousands of years, ceaselessly moving water has carved the sandstone of the plateau into impressive cliffs, arches and chimneys, which are found throughout the park.
Located just under 20 miles from Bandy Creek is the Blue Heron Mine, also known as Mine 18, a historic abandoned mining town that has been rebuilt as an outdoor museum. Visitors can hear audio presentations from actual people who lived in the community in the 1950s.
$140 / night
Welcome to TVA Public Land - Fork Bend in Tennessee! This spot is a hidden gem for those who love a bit of adventure and don't mind roughing it. Nestled in the woods, this area offers stunning views of the lake and a peaceful, remote atmosphere.
The camping here is primitive, so don't expect any frills. There are no toilets, showers, or drinking water, so you'll need to come prepared. Fires are allowed, and you'll find several fire rings scattered around. It's a great place to pitch a tent or park an RV, but keep in mind that it's not big rig friendly.
One of the standout features of Fork Bend is its natural beauty. The sunsets and sunrises over the water are absolutely breathtaking. The area is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
Visitors have mentioned that the road leading to the campsites is a bit rough, but you don't necessarily need a 4x4 to get there. Just take it slow and steady. The campsites are spread out along a long dirt road, offering both shaded spots under the trees and open areas with lake views.
While the area is beautiful, some campers have noted that there's quite a bit of trash around, so it might be a good idea to bring some extra trash bags and do a little cleanup. Despite this, many have found the experience here to be incredibly rewarding and peaceful.
If you're looking for a quiet, scenic spot to camp for free, and you don't mind a bit of a challenge, TVA Public Land - Fork Bend is definitely worth checking out. Just remember to pack everything you need and leave no trace. Enjoy your stay!
We are a family campground & RV park located just outside of Knoxville, TN. Our campground is open year-round. Among the tranquil woods, you will enjoy all of our campground amenities, such as a swimming pool, playground, and clubhouse.
We are just a short drive away from Knoxville, TN and other area attractions. When you camp at Volunteer Park Family Campground, your family is our family. Our Knoxville campground is kept clean, and the showers, pool, and laundry are regularly attended to. Our campsites are shady and quiet and can accommodate everything from tents, pop-ups to large “Big Rig” RVs. So come on over and enjoy the natural beauty of our home in East Tennessee!
Book a campsite today!
$30 - $65 / night
The west side has 50 sites with water and electric hook-up. The west side also has three paved sites suitable for persons with disabilities. If reserved, proper identification will be required upon check-in.
To get to the West Campground
From I-75 take Exit 128 (Rocky Top) and turn left onto US-441 S (Hwy. 61) for 2.8 miles until you see the stone entrance sign for Norris Dam State Park and turn left. Follow the signs to the campground, which will have you take your first left at the yellow gates. Follow the road for one mile to the west campground. ***Please use caution, the road leading to the campground is steep with dangerous curves.
Welcome to Cove Lake State Park Campground, a gem nestled in the mountains of Tennessee. This spot is perfect for those who love a mix of nature and convenience. The campground is open year-round, so whether you're a summer sun-seeker or a winter wanderer, you can always find a place here.
One of the standout features of this campground is its proximity to the lake. Many sites, like the popular #27, offer stunning lake views and are shaded by towering pines. It's a peaceful setting where you can enjoy the quiet, interrupted only by the occasional bird song. If you're into fishing or kayaking, you'll love the easy access to the water.
The campground is also big-rig friendly, making it a great choice for RV travelers. You'll find electric hookups, drinking water, and a sanitary dump station to make your stay comfortable. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
Visitors have praised the friendly and helpful staff, who are always ready to assist, even after hours. The bathhouses are generally clean and conveniently located near many sites. There's also a camp store at the front of the park where you can stock up on essentials like firewood and ice.
For families, the playground and open fields provide plenty of space for kids to run around and play. And if you're looking to explore, the Devil's Backbone section of the Cumberland Trail is nearby, offering some beautiful hiking opportunities.
Overall, Cove Lake State Park Campground is a fantastic spot for a relaxing getaway, with plenty of amenities and natural beauty to enjoy. Whether you're here for a quick overnight stay or a longer vacation, you'll find it a welcoming and enjoyable place to camp.
$25 - $55 / night
Frozen Head State Park Campground, nestled near Wartburg, TN, is a gem for those who appreciate a quieter, more intimate camping experience. This place is perfect for tent campers and overland rigs, thanks to its smaller sites and narrow roads that keep the big RVs at bay. The campground operates from March 15 to November 1, offering a serene escape during these months.
One of the standout features here is the cleanliness. Visitors rave about the immaculate restrooms and heated showers—so hot, you might think your flip-flops are melting! The campground also has a sanitary dump, drinking water, and firewood available, making it convenient for extended stays.
Families will love the playground and the creek at the bottom of the hill, which is close enough for easy access but far enough to keep the noise at a minimum. There's even a free book swap hut, a charming little building where you can take or leave a book. It's a nice touch that adds to the community feel of the place.
For those who enjoy hiking, the park offers some fantastic trails, including a lovely waterfall hike. The park rangers are known to organize kids' activities and make rounds to ensure everyone has what they need. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.
While there's no Verizon service at the campground, you can catch a bar at the visitor center, just a short bike ride away. If you're planning a visit, try to snag site 14—it's a favorite among regulars. Whether you're here for the hiking, the peaceful atmosphere, or just a weekend getaway, Frozen Head State Park Campground won't disappoint.
If you want to be surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the Southeastern United States, plan a stay with at Loyston Point. TVA offers hundreds of campsites among its six dam reservoir campgrounds, available from mid-March to mid-November.
All six campgrounds are now managed by Recreation Resource Management (RRM) under a concessionaire agreement with TVA. This has allowed an expansion of services that includes new campground stores, wireless access, an online reservation system and more.
Welcome to Big Ridge State Park Campground, nestled near Maynardville, TN. This spot is a gem for those who love the great outdoors. Open all year round, it offers a mix of tent, RV, cabin, and even glamping accommodations.
One of the standout features here is the easy access to Norris Lake. Whether you're into fishing, boating, or just soaking in the views, the lake is a short walk from many campsites. Some visitors have mentioned that the sites are nicely spaced and angled, making it a breeze to park and set up.
For those who like to stay connected, be aware that T-Mobile service can be a bit spotty. But hey, isn't that part of the charm of getting away from it all? The campground also has electric hookups and drinking water, which are always a plus.
If you're into hiking, you're in luck. There are several trails nearby, ranging from easy to moderate. One popular route is the loop that includes the Lake Trail, Dark Hollow Trail, and Big Valley Trail. It's a great way to explore the park and get a bit of exercise.
Families will appreciate the playground and picnic tables scattered around. Pets are welcome too, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Just remember, no alcohol is allowed on the premises.
The shower house could use an upgrade, but it's functional. And if you're planning a longer stay, there's a sanitary dump station available. Firewood can be purchased on-site, and campfires are allowed, making it easy to enjoy a cozy evening under the stars.
So pack your bags, grab your gear, and head over to Big Ridge State Park Campground for a memorable outdoor experience.
$8 - $100 / night
Melton Hill Dam Campground, managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), is a gem near Lenoir City, TN. This spot is open year-round and offers a mix of tent and RV accommodations. It's a great place for families and solo campers alike, with plenty of amenities to make your stay comfortable.
One of the standout features here is the friendly and accommodating staff. Visitors have praised them for their helpfulness, especially when it comes to finding the right site for your needs. Speaking of sites, they vary in size, so if you have a larger tent or RV, you might want to double-check the dimensions before settling in. Some sites come with electric and sewer hookups, which is a big plus for RV campers.
The campground is right by the Tennessee River, offering beautiful views and a designated swimming area. If you're into water sports, you'll appreciate the boat ramp on-site. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are picnic tables and fire pits at each site, perfect for a cozy evening by the fire.
The bathhouses are a bit of a mixed bag. While some campers have noted they could use a bit more cleaning, others found them adequate. The TVA is working on adding another bathhouse, which should help alleviate any congestion.
Cell coverage can be spotty, so be prepared to unplug and enjoy the natural beauty around you. The campground is also close to various amenities in Lenoir City, making it easy to stock up on supplies or grab a bite to eat.
Overall, Melton Hill Dam Campground offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of activities to keep you busy. Whether you're here for a weekend or an extended stay, you'll find it a welcoming place to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.
$18 - $31 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Lake City, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Lake City, TN offers a wide range of camping options, with 263 campgrounds and RV parks near Lake City, TN and 5 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Lake City, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lake City, TN is West Campground — Norris Dam State Park with a 4.2-star rating from 28 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lake City, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Lake City, TN.
What parks are near Lake City, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 32 parks near Lake City, TN that allow camping, notably Cumberland Gap National Historic Park and Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.
