Cabins near Andersonville, Tennessee offer campers direct access to Norris Lake and the scenic terrain of East Tennessee at elevations between 1,000 and 1,100 feet. The area maintains mild temperatures for most of the year, with summer highs in the 80s making it prime time for water recreation. Campgrounds typically open from March through October with some facilities offering year-round accommodations.
What to do
Hiking trails: Big Ridge State Park offers trails for various skill levels, including the backcountry route to Dark Hollow West. One camper notes, "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."
Water recreation: Norris Lake provides opportunities for swimming, fishing and boating directly from Loyston Point Campground. A visitor reports, "Had so much fun at this campground. We were right on the lake and the grounds were very clean. The staff was so nice and always around to help if needed."
Historical exploration: The Museum of Appalachia near Appalachia Ridge offers insight into regional culture. A camper shares, "This is our second time here. I really like this campground. It is right next to the Museum of Appalachia. It's full of peacocks and mini horses and fat little pigs. I really enjoyed hearing the peacocks and donkeys in the morning."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many campsites at Loyston Point Campground provide direct lake access. One reviewer mentions, "Located on the beautiful Norris Lake. The water is so beautiful with the sunset shining down on it."
Clean facilities: Knoxville Campground receives praise for maintenance standards. A camper reports, "Super CLEAN little campground right off the interstate. Arcade and recreation room was amazing for kids while I did laundry. Hot showers in air conditioner!!! I repeat!! Hot showers in air conditioner!!"
Camping variety: Big Ridge State Park Campground offers diverse accommodation options. As one camper notes, "This is a great place to camp. Clean and friendly, quiet and relaxing. There is truly something for everyone here. Back country camp sites as well as camp ground with electric and bathrooms."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Cell coverage varies significantly across campgrounds in the area. At Big Ridge State Park, connectivity is limited, with most visitors reporting only 1 bar or less throughout the park.
Terrain challenges: Some campsites have significant grade issues. A visitor to Mountain Lake Marina and Campground mentions, "The campground is located on a hill so you need a car or golf cart to make down to the docks."
Reservation requirements: Advance booking is essential for prime sites, especially lakefront options. According to one camper at Loyston Point, "Our first camping trip as a camping family in a pull behind. We loved it and everyone was so nice! The views were amazing and we will for sure visit again."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation amenities: The recreation facilities at Knoxville Campground provide entertainment for children. A visitor notes, "Great stop moving through. Arcade and recreation room was amazing for kids while I did laundry."
Swimming areas: Beach access points provide safe swimming options for families. A Big Ridge visitor states, "Great place to swim for the summer with the kids."
Spacious sites: Eagle Rock Resort & Campground offers cabin accommodations suitable for larger groups. One visitor reports, "The site manager, Jeff, and his staff was extremely nice and helpful. Always there to please and help make your experience one to remember. I am not the camping type so the condos they have for rent was perfect for my group."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many Andersonville-area campgrounds have uneven terrain. One camper at Big Ridge State Park advises, "Site 43. Big site, fairly flat. Just have levelers on one side. Close to the bathhouse and a quick walk to the entrance to get to the store, swim area, etc."
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging entry roads. A visitor to East Campground at Norris Dam State Park warns, "Google maps and the website will tell you to take the 441 to get here but I recommend going down to the 61 and coming up that way as the road is quite a bit wider and not so steep and windy."
Proximity to services: Clinton/Knoxville North KOA provides convenient accommodation near Interstate 75. A reviewer notes, "We needed a place right off the highway to stay on the way from Raleigh to Kentucky and this fit the bill. The sites were tight but had full hook ups. Staff is super friendly and guided us into our pull-through site."
