Benton, Tennessee sits at the foothills of the Cherokee National Forest, with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,500 feet in the immediate camping areas. The area experiences mild springs and falls with summer temperatures typically ranging 75-90°F during peak camping season. RV camping near Benton offers proximity to both mountain terrain and water recreation on Parksville Lake, with most sites featuring gravel pads that may require additional leveling.
What to do
Hiking at Chilhowee Recreation Area: The recreation area features numerous trails suited for various skill levels. "There are a lot of hiking trails. The bathrooms could use some TLC," notes a camper from Chilhowee. The trail to Benton Falls is particularly popular, with one visitor sharing, "Fairly easy trail to see beautiful waterfall. Pet friendly."
Whitewater adventures: The Ocoee River provides excellent rafting and kayaking opportunities. A visitor to Whitewater RV Park explains, "We spent the day hiking the mountain next to rv park. Then went kayaking down the river across the street." The Olympic Whitewater Center is nearby, where the 1996 Atlanta Olympic events took place.
Mountain biking: The area offers extensive trail systems. "Convenient to the Ocoee River, the Ocoee Whitewater Center, Parksville Lake beaches and boat ramps, many miles of mountain bike/hiking trails and whitewater rafting, it's a great central location for day trips," mentions a Parksville Lake camper.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campgrounds offer privacy between sites. At Top of the World RV, "HUGE spots, and that's even the 'small' ones. Great views. Great spot to wander a little with a pet & great WiFi," according to a satisfied camper.
Natural water features: Streams and ponds enhance many sites. "We had a great experience at this little campground. There are several sites along a beautiful little creek. It was peaceful, only the occasional car on the nearby road," reports a visitor to Parksville Lake RV Campground.
Mountain views: The elevated terrain provides scenic vistas. One camper at Top of the World RV notes, "If you are looking for an RV campground with breathtaking views, this place is a true gem hidden in the Tennessee mountains. The peaceful tranquility and relaxing atmosphere make it the best getaway."
What you should know
Road challenges: Mountain access requires careful driving. A Chilhowee camper warns, "To get to this campground you have to go up a steep narrow windy mountain road. The camp sites are distanced well and the entire campground is in the shade."
Seasonal variations: Facility availability changes throughout the year. "We stayed in E loop, but drove the whole park. Loops A&B are closest to the lake and looked great for groups, or folks with kids. Loops E&F were a bit more secluded, and better fit for couples," advises a visitor about Chilhowee's layout.
Variable site conditions: Pad materials and levelness vary by campground. "The RV Campground area is nicely shaded. Several sites were closed in mid-September due to social distancing. There were only a few pull through spots. Many of the sites that you back in to were pretty narrow," notes a Parksville Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Lake recreation options: Parksville Lake offers swimming areas suitable for children. "Great site. Easy to navigate around sites. Lots of shade. Close by Ocoee White Water center where the Atlanta olympics took place. Plan your visit around the water release," recommends a visitor to Parksville Lake RV Campground.
Group-friendly loops: Some campgrounds have areas designed for family gatherings. "The R.V. sites are well shaded and well spaced and many will accommodate large R.V.'s. Several sites offer the opportunity for two R.V.'s to camp close together," notes one Parksville Lake visitor.
Kid-friendly trails: Several short hiking options work well for children. "Best thing to us was the hiking trail that we walked with fresh blueberry bushes on our side. Fairly easy trail to see beautiful waterfall," mentions a camper from Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose based on your rig size and preferences. A camper at Blue Moon RV Park shared, "We have a 30' travel trailer and the pull-thru site wasn't long enough for us to stay hooked up to our truck for the night. Water hook-up was a little wonky but the friendliness of the office staff made up for it."
Dump station navigation: Plan ahead for dumping tanks. A camper noted about Chilhowee, "From the B loop, you have to traverse about a 120 degree switchback to get to it. My friend who was there pulling a 5th wheel decided not to try it and opted to pay to dump somewhere else."
Internet connectivity: Research options before arrival. "There is no WiFi or AT&T cellular signal in this park. However, if you drive to any of the scenic overlooks just outside the park, you will get AT&T LTE signal. We also picked up 3 TV stations over the air, which was great for weather/news," advises a Chilhowee visitor.
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