The Cumberland Gap region offers glamping close to Middlesboro, Kentucky across three states at elevations between 1,000-3,500 feet. The area experiences all four seasons with mild springs, humid summers, colorful falls, and moderately cold winters. Campgrounds in this region typically remain open year-round with most facilities closing shower houses from November through March.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Access fishing and water recreation at Anderson County Park, where sites along the water provide direct lake access. "This specific spot was huge and next to a wooded area and nature walk and, in my opinion, the best site in the whole campground!" notes Mary D. Another reviewer mentioned that "sites were very clean and spacious and all have spectacular views of the lake."
Historic exploration: Visit the Museum of Appalachia near Clinton, just 40 minutes from Middlesboro. This working village depicts early Appalachian life with hands-on exhibits. "When passing through this area going to the Smoky Mountains I made a pit stop in Clinton, TN, just a few short miles away from one of the entrances to Smoky Mountain National Park. Though not in the mountain they have a world of charm and activities in the community," writes Crystal C. from Clinton-Knoxville North KOA.
Backcountry hiking: Explore the trail system at Big Ridge State Park with options for various skill levels. "I've stayed at this site a couple times now and I love the location. The site is a short and easy hike (under 2 miles) from the parking lot via the Lake Trail to the Dark Hollow Trail," shares Chelsea. The park also offers a 5.3-mile loop combining Dark Hollow, Big Valley, Ghost House and Lake trails rated as easy to moderate difficulty.
What campers like
Riverside campsites: Glamping on the Clinch River LLC provides yurt accommodations in a tranquil riverside setting. Jake C. describes it as "a relaxing getaway surrounded by rivers and waterfalls in northern Tennessee." The property features five yurt sites with electrical hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings.
Budget-friendly backcountry options: Primitive camping areas provide seclusion at lower costs than developed sites. At Big Ridge State Park, Chelsea notes: "The site is tucked off the trail and has access to a stream that is directly across from the site entrance." These backcountry sites typically cost under $20 per night compared to electrical sites at nearly $30.
Seasonal pools and recreational amenities: Several campgrounds offer summer swimming options. "Great place to swim for the summer with the kids," writes Brooke M. about Big Ridge State Park. Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park features "mini golf, go swimming in a lifeguard-watched pool, play sports. They even have a new high ropes course (ziplines)."
What you should know
Varying site sizes and layouts: Campground terrain affects site dimensions and privacy levels. "The sites are small and close together. Not all of them have a suitable tent spot, and there were a lot of RVs. I wish there was a separate area for tents," notes Christy E. about Big Ridge State Park Campground. Chelsea suggests Dark Hollow West site for those seeking more seclusion.
Bathroom facilities vary widely between campgrounds: At Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park, "the sinks don't have hot water and using the shower requires pushing the faucet on every 2 min," according to Alison C. Check recent reviews for current bathroom conditions before booking.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited connectivity. At Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort, Jessica L. reports, "Our Verizon cell signal was terrible and the campground wifi was not much better." When staying at Anderson County Park, Mary D. notes: "No wifi. I have US Cellular and had limited service. Enough to maybe look something up and receive texts."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park offers extensive children's activities. "The playgrounds were our favorite place to be as they have a pretty good choice of equipment. There are a couple hiking trails and there's a pool for the summer months," shares Alison C. The park organizes family-friendly holiday activities like tie-dying and camper-only pool parties.
Swimming options: Multiple locations feature swimming areas for hot summer days. "There is a nearby swimming area, but it was occupied by geese families and there was quite a lot of goose poop," warns Christy E. about Big Ridge State Park. Checking water quality reports before swimming is recommended.
Educational opportunities: Historic sites throughout the region provide learning experiences. Nicole D. notes Big Ridge offers "something for everyone. Clean lake, nice facilities, hiking trails of varying degrees of difficulty, gift shop, and a grist mill to check out." The area's historical significance creates opportunities for children to learn about Appalachian culture.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Bring adequate leveling blocks for uneven sites. At Blue Heron Campground, Susan B. describes "gravel campsites and paved rv parking at campsites." Kc K. advises about Big Ridge State Park: "Site 43. Big site. fairly flat. Just have levelers on one side."
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have narrow interior roads. Kc K. notes at Big Ridge State Park: "Roads are a little narrow in the campground, made it a little hard to back trailer in - the front of the truck was the issue hitting rocks on the side of the road."
Hook-up availability: Full-service sites may be limited at certain campgrounds. At Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort, John C. advises: "Only the pull thru sites have sewer taps. All sites have water and 50 amp service though and a dump station is available." Travis W. at Powell Valley Resort notes: "Dump station is on the wrong side of the road and not well maintained. No hose to flush your tanks."
