Camping options near Apison, Tennessee include several state parks within 25-45 minutes of driving distance. Located at 860 feet above sea level, the area experiences mild winters with occasional snow and warm, humid summers that range from 75-90°F. Apison's proximity to both the Tennessee River and the Appalachian foothills creates diverse camping terrain with both waterfront and mountain sites accessible year-round.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 1-3 miles roundtrip at Cloudland Canyon State Park where visitors access two distinct falls via metal grate staircases. "A lot of scrambling over rocks and high water debris, a lot of picture taking opportunities," notes one camper who carried dogs that "did not like the metal grating" of the stairways.
Explore underground cave systems: The cave tour at Raccoon Mountain Caverns offers educational underground excursions suitable for various skill levels. "Crystal Cave was right on site and enjoyed the guided tour," mentions a visitor who recommends making "advanced reservations."
Lake activities: swimming and paddling: Harrison Bay State Park offers lake access with boat rentals and designated swimming areas. "Sites 23-25 and 35-36 are right on the water, almost with their own private beaches," making them ideal for water activities, while "sites 29 & 30 have great views of the lake."
Mountain biking: multi-use trails at Fort Mountain State Park include technical terrain for experienced riders. A visitor notes that "most of the trails except the Gahuti are multi use and there is a strong community of mountain biking here," though cautions the trails might be "too technical for us due to the major elevation changes, loose gravel and rocks."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: direct access to fishing and swimming at Chester Frost Park provides convenient water activities. "Sites near the lake have easy acces to the water," explains one reviewer who recommends avoiding "mayfly spawning" season for a better experience.
Platform camping: raised wooden floors eliminate the need for tent footprints at Fort Mountain State Park. "The platform sites are a short walk from a parking area near the lake so you can make multiple trips to the car if necessary," providing a different camping experience as "my husband in particular loved that we did not have to worry about a tent!"
Dog exercise areas: designated spaces at Chattanooga North-Cleveland KOA allow pets to burn energy. "They have a little dog park... that's cool," mentions a camper who appreciated the amenity while noting the primitive camping area's proximity to it.
Diverse accommodation options: From tent sites to cabins and yurts, campsites near Apison offer various lodging types. "16 cottages/cabins, and Georgia State Park cabins really cannot be overstated; they are well appointed, well maintained, and absolutely beautiful," highlights a visitor describing Cloudland Canyon's options.
What you should know
Highway noise affects some locations: Holiday Travel Park has convenient highway access but noise impacts. "Great location, very quiet!" notes one camper, though others mention "this is not a campground for those looking for a relaxing experience in nature due to proximity to the interstate and surrounding neighborhoods."
Seasonal conditions: water levels in waterfall areas fluctuate dramatically. "Waterfalls were weak but we knew this going in July but still great views," explains a camper who recommends fall visits instead.
Wildlife encounters: bear precautions are necessary at some locations. "Two other couples at two separate platform sites had encounters with a bear the same weekend I was here," reports a Fort Mountain visitor who notes the importance of using provided "bear proof storage boxes."
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds require navigating steep mountain roads. "To get to this campground you have to go up a steep narrow windy mountain road," warns a Chilhowee visitor, while another advises "Don't drive up the dirt path, we made that mistake. Take the regular rode. GPS sends you automatically to the dirt road."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming facilities: man-made beaches provide safer alternatives to lake swimming for children at Chilhowee Recreation Area. "Nice area with picnic tables and beach area," mentions a visitor who also appreciated the "fairly easy trail to see beautiful waterfall" that's accessible for families.
Playground locations: consider proximity when selecting sites. "Loop A is an RV loop with very little shade, and is closest to the playgrounds and picnic pavilions," advises a Harrison Bay visitor, providing valuable site selection information for families with children.
Loop selection for noise management: Choose loops farther from main areas for quieter family camping. "Loops E&F were a bit more secluded, and better fit for couples, dogs that don't like a lot of passersby, or people that generally want to keep more to themselves," suggests a camper comparing different areas at Chilhowee.
Mini-golf and recreational amenities: Several parks offer additional entertainment options. "Put put, playgrounds, lake views and paddle boats," lists a Fort Mountain visitor, highlighting the diverse activities available beyond standard camping that keep children engaged.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require leveling equipment. "The site had about a 5 inch difference shopping towards the road. I used rocker blocks maxed out (about 4 inches in height) and still was not level," reports a Fort Mountain camper who struggled with an unlevel site.
Dump station access: Check campground policies before arrival as some restrict usage. One visitor to Battlefield Campground notes, "I only stopped by to see if I could use their dump station for a fee. I was informed the owners no longer let them do so."
Pull-through availability: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Apison offer convenient pull-through sites. "Site fit our 44ft 5th wheel just fine. Pretty clean, easy to get to, easy to navigate, and close to gas, stores etc. Only thing I'd suggest is requesting a site not under water," advises a Holiday Travel Park visitor.
Water hookup variations: Verify hookup types before arrival. "There are no water hookups at the sites, only power (30A). You'll need to fill your fresh water tanks before you set up," explains a Chilhowee camper, providing crucial information for RV preparation.
