Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground spans across deep gorges with hiking trails that drop 400+ vertical feet to reach waterfalls. The park offers diverse camping options ranging from walk-in tent sites to fully-equipped RV spots on both the East and West Rim. Temperatures vary significantly with season, with summer highs often reaching 90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing.
What to do
Explore waterfall trails: At Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground, hikers can access multiple waterfalls via the canyon trail system. "Been going there since i was a kid. Breath taking view!" shares Matthew H., highlighting the lasting appeal of these natural features.
Visit local caves: Book the Cave tour near Fall Creek Falls for an immersive underground experience. "The Cave tour is a must, but prepare to get dirty," advises G F., indicating that visitors should wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
Enjoy water recreation: Chester Frost Park offers swimming and boating opportunities on Chickamauga Lake. As Doug H. explains, "One of the best places to be able to camp and boat. We where at Chester Frost for July 4th. Love staying on the lake front and watching the sun set."
Try disc golf: Marion County Park includes a disc golf course among its recreational facilities. "Swimming, soccer, baseball, boating, disc golf, para course all right here," notes Cori H., detailing the multiple activity options available.
What campers like
Wilderness privacy: The West Rim campground at Cloudland Canyon provides secluded sites. According to G F., "The West Rim campground is VASTLY superior with tons of privacy, tree cover, great terraces at most sites, with the ones outside ones being the best."
Family-friendly amenities: Lookout Mountain-Chattanooga West KOA features attractions designed for children. "Kids loved the pool and jumping pillow," reports Jill P., mentioning some of the appealing facilities for younger campers.
Walk-in tent sites: Tent campers appreciate the secluded walk-in options. Abby M. explains, "I'm always thrilled to find camping areas where I can have the convenience of my car-but can avoid the noise of RVs - and you definitely get that here!"
Waterfront locations: Tennessee Wall Camp provides sites with water access. "There is a parking lot right off the road after a fun ~30 minute drive through residential roads right on the water," Suzie K. explains, describing the setting for tent camping.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Not all campsites are created equal, and location can significantly impact your experience. "The East Rim campground is the thing of nightmares - sites on top of each other, no vegetation, no trees, right next to road, zero privacy," warns G F. about Cloudland Canyon's East Rim area.
Seasonal considerations: Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground experiences significant seasonal variations that affect activities. "Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out. We are definitely going back in summer to get wet in the falls and creeks," advises Richard F.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Some primitive camping areas offer minimal amenities. At Tennessee Wall Camp, Brian W. notes it's "Great for hammocks and tents," but campers should be prepared for basic conditions.
Reservation systems: Many campgrounds in the region operate on different booking systems. Chester Frost Park doesn't accept advance reservations for specific sites. As Susan S. explains, "You must get there before the guard station opens because the line starts to form early. You can not make reservations for the camping sites, it's 1st come."
Tips for camping with families
Choose West Rim for privacy: Families wanting more space should target specific areas. "Sites 4-9 are well spaced from each other and great for tent campers and families who want their kids to have room to play," Stephanie J. advises about Cloudland Canyon.
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Chattanooga North-Cleveland KOA offers facilities specifically for children. "The campground was clean and the people working were very friendly. They have many things to do like a pool, cornhole, horseshoes," notes Chris Y.
Consider glamping options: For families new to outdoor stays, glamping near Lookout Mountain, Georgia provides comfort while enjoying nature. "The tiny house is stocked with a microwave, toaster oven, electric kettle, Keurig, and an induction burner plus dishes, flatware, and just about everything else," reports Lee D. about Paradise Meadows' accommodations.
Check swimming options: Chester Frost Park offers a man-made beach area for children. "This place is definitely somewhere you wanna bring your kids they would love it! There is a man made beach with a playground and loads of camping lots next to the river!" shares Haley H.
Tips from RVers
Verify site levelness: RV sites in the region often require leveling equipment. At Lookout Mountain-Chattanooga West KOA, Jason B. cautions, "Some of the roads and RV sites are a little difficult to get into. Our site was on a sharp curve with a decent grade, but after some jockeying around, we got our camper in ok."
Consider hookup availability: Marion County Park offers affordable sites with utilities. "Water and electric for 20. a night with a 10% senior discount," notes Cori H., indicating the value for RVers seeking hookups.
Look for pull-through options: Marion County Park features accessible sites for larger vehicles. "The spots are very spacious and very easily accessible," Robert M. confirms, making this a practical option for RVers with larger rigs.
Check noise levels: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. While reviewing KOA Cleveland, Laura H. observed, "It is quiet at night even being near an interstate. RV Sites are mostly level, there were a few that were not as level."
