3 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Tent campsites near Corryton, Tennessee range from established campgrounds in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to more primitive options at Chuck Swan State Forest. Cosby Campground offers tent camping with flush toilets and drinking water available, situated at the northern end of the national park. The Farmers Forest provides a secluded tent site with picnic tables and access to drinking water, while GlampKnox features tent camping options alongside other accommodation types.
Most tent campgrounds near Corryton feature basic amenities, with fire rings and picnic tables being common at established sites. Cosby Campground provides tent pads, fire rings with attached grates, and access to flush toilets, though no showers are available. Several primitive tent sites require campers to bring their own water or filter from nearby streams. Bear activity is common throughout the region, requiring proper food storage. Sites at higher elevations in the Smokies tend to be cooler and may close seasonally, typically operating from mid-April through October. Vault toilets are available at some locations, while others have no facilities.
Tent camping in this region offers access to extensive trail networks, particularly in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The heavily wooded terrain at Cosby Campground "lends itself nicely to hammock camping," according to one review. Many sites feature proximity to creeks or rivers, providing both scenic value and opportunities for fishing or cooling off during summer months. TVA Public Land at Fork Bend offers free tent camping with drive-in or walk-in access, though without amenities. Primitive backcountry camping is also available at designated sites throughout the national park, requiring permits. A review noted that "despite having a footprint, water was coming through floor and, despite having a rain fly, water was dripping in through ceiling," highlighting the importance of proper rain preparation when tent camping in this region.
"I recently learned that TVA land is free to camp on, so I sought out some close to me and found Fork Bend. If you want to get away from people, this place is for you."
"Disclaimer: I pack heat whenever I am alone.)
The site was pretty much shaded by the forest canopy throughout the day, with full sun toward the edge of the water."
"Panther Creek SP Panther Creek State Park was an unexpected find outside of Knoxville, TN , in Morristown. I’ve driven by the sign but no need to camp so close to home."
"The park is quiet and well patrolled by rangers and sheriff, so very safe. Store closest to campground is open 2-7:30 PM. Visitor Center at the entrance opens at 7 AM."
Available this weekend
"This spot is new, and the set up is awesome. Perched on top of a hill, the site has great sunrise views."
"This spot is new, and the set up is awesome. Perched on top of a hill, the site has great sunrise views."
from $75 - $175 / night
from $90 - $100 / night
"This trip can be done with tents just as easy if not easier than hammocks if you prefer to pack in your tent camping gear. We chose hammocks for space saving reasons only."
"If you like primitive camping out in the middle of nowhere with a view, this is a place for you! Chuck Swan State Forest is just that , a Forest, nothing more."
"Lots to explore here, beaches, hi clearance roads(Jeep roads), caves, old cemeteries, rocks to jump off into the lake,and an old fire tower you can climb for what I would expect is a great view."
"Great campground with very friendly and helpful rangers. Was pretty empty the night we were there."
"The ranger was very friendly when we checked in. The site was a great site for winter camping, since the loop beside it was closed for the season (so there was only one neighbor)."
"Cosby is a small town about a 45 minute easy drive from Gatlinburg. Heavily wooded, lends itself nicely to hammock camping."
"Most of the sites are better suited to tent campers, though a few of them are designated RV sites offering a back-in parking pad."
from $50 / night
"Its TVA protected and next to a water treatment plant. Mossy creek flows into Cherokee Lake which greatly improves the fishing year round."
TravelerBeautiful spot in the smoky mountains. State park style amenities, no showers. No hookups. Very busy very open campground. Nice that some trails are walking distance from campground. I would not camp here again as I prefer more separation and privacy. No cell service. STARLINK is usable but obstructed with tree canopy
GuideDrove 5 hrs from our last campground to here for event Campground was very well maintained and liked the site. Wasn’t overly crazy about the event not a lot of vendors mainly jeeps went to a few local shops in town had a great lunch at the cookie dough monster.
TravelerFantastic National Park! Elkmont is really nice but lacking in hookups and there are no showers. Hard to stay too long without power, water, sewer and showers. Still, an amazing site along the river!
TravelerThis worked well for us while we were visiting Dollywood in our trailer, but we wouldn't stay here if we had been in a different type of site. Cons: Unless you have a site up against the river or on patriot park, you are packed in VERY TIGHT with other people, sometimes with your sliders only a foot or two away from your neighbor's sliders. We were in a site that was "on patriot park", but the few first sites of that type are really just behind the trolley parking lot and pick up with a path behind you (including ours). People are on the other side of the fence walking about two feet behind you all day and pretty late in to the night. Pros: There are lot of trees and campground is very pretty. Super close to Dollywood and other Pigeon Forge points of interest.
ScoutThis was a very nice campground! The tent areas are partially gravel so it helped the area be less muddy after rain. Beautiful view of the river and would be a great place to fish! Bathrooms are very nice! Comes with a nice fire pit and didn’t have to use own grate! Pet friendly! Staff was very nice and helpful!
Only complaint was some of their quiet hours were confusing. The quiet hours on the email said 10pm to 7am but then sign posted at bathroom was 11pm-7am for quiet hours.
GuideThis is a beautiful campground but is unfortunately permanently closed. It's sad.
GuideWe really enjoyed our stay at Gateway RV Campground! After spending plenty of time on the road, it’s always nice to find somewhere you can park up, relax, and feel at home.
The campground has a lovely, relaxed atmosphere and was a great place to unwind.
One of the real bonuses is the trolley that stops right outside the campground office. What a fantastic convenience! It makes getting out and exploring the local area so much easier without having to pack everything up and take the RV. Such a simple touch, but one that makes a big difference when you’re traveling.
We’ve stayed at plenty of RV parks during our travels, and it’s often the little things that make a place stand out.
All in all, a very enjoyable stay, and we’d happily return if we’re passing through the area again. Definitely worth a stop!
TravelerI had a brain fart and screwed up our dates and needed just one night last minute. Their online booking won’t take reservations less than 24 hours in advance. Quick call and they had us a spot and even offered early check in if we wanted it.
I appreciated a table and chairs instead of a picnic table. We had a little shade. Hookups were middle of the pad… super easy.
Lots to do right in the park. Well maintained and good location. We will try to stay longer next time.
GuideWilderness rosd campground is awesome!! Beautiful area, with electric hookups and nice restroom and shower facilities. Smooth paved level sites and easy to find the site. We loved our stay here. They also have beautiful trails that are pet friendly. Will come back here again.
Tent camping near Corryton, Tennessee provides access to both the mountainous terrain of the Smokies and the river valleys of the Tennessee River watershed. The region sits at elevations ranging from 900 to 3,000 feet, creating microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Most primitive camping areas experience temperature drops of 15-20 degrees from daytime highs during spring and fall seasons.
Waterfront activities at Douglas Lake: Lakeside Getaway on Douglas offers tent camping with direct lake access. "There is a sitting area and a dock with paddle sport launches," notes camper Richard T., who appreciated the "amazing" views of the lake during his stay.
Hiking forest trails: The Farmers Forest provides a secluded wooded setting for tent campers seeking trail access. "We really enjoyed camping here! If you love the woods, this is your spot," shares Lisa P. The single tent site sits within dense forest typical of the Corryton region.
Riverside camping and fishing: Holston River Bank offers boat-in tent camping access for anglers. "The river was absolutely rolling with 2 generators running for the entire week so the islands we normally try to stay on were few and far between," reports Nate H., who recommends hitting it "when they are rolling 0 or 1 generators only and the fishing will blow your mind."
Privacy and seclusion: Chuck Swan State Forest offers primitive camping with minimal crowds. "If you like primitive camping out in the middle of nowhere with a view, this is a place for you!" writes Shelly S., explaining that "if you like the night sky and quiet, alone time, this place is perfect."
Waterfront tent sites: TVA Public Land at Fork Bend features multiple free camping spots along Norris Lake. "We found a great spot right on the lake," says Lori H., who adds that "we enjoy truly being away from it all in nature, and the amazing lake, so we will be using this spot on a regular basis!"
Backcountry options: Backcountry Site 1 at Norris Dam State Park provides primitive tent camping with spacing between sites. "I just did an overnighter here but it was quiet, good space between spots, access to bathhouse and good fire rings," writes Michael M., who found the site satisfactory for a short stay.
Road conditions: Many primitive sites require navigating unpaved roads. At TVA Public Land-Fork Bend, "the road back is a gravel/dirt road a few miles into the woods. Although bumpy 4x4 isn't necessary as we were able to get our 85 GMC van back here," reports Logan W., who stayed for a week.
Local traffic patterns: Some camping areas near Corryton experience visits from local residents. At Fork Bend, Sarah N. noted, "Couple of kids on dirt bikes skirted my camp, plus several four wheelers and SxSs were exploring the peninsula during the day. Everyone was polite and just having a good time."
Weather considerations: Rain protection is essential for tent camping in this region. Even at established campgrounds, sites can become saturated during heavy rainfall, affecting tent placement and comfort.
Lakefront options for kids: Lakeside Getaway on Douglas provides family-friendly tent camping with water access. "Very quiet, secluded and private. I have been out there several times and enjoy it every time. Great place to be with family," writes Jason F.
Swimming areas: TVA Public Land at Fork Bend has natural swimming spots suitable for families. Pinky S. reports, "My daughter and I went out for an overnight camping trip. We took our dogs with us. It was beautiful and rustic! We brought everything we needed with us. Norris lake is so beautiful."
Hiking for various abilities: Cosby Campground offers trails suited to different skill levels. According to Janine B., "Within the campgrounds are several hiking trails for a variety of hiking abilities. The hike to Hen Wallows is nice with some rugged patches, but worth it in the end."
Accessibility for different vehicles: While many tent camping areas near Corryton have limited RV access, some accommodate both tent and RV camping. At Riverside RV Park & Resort, which has tent sites alongside RV spaces, Seth P. notes it's "convenient to highway 66 that runs from Interstate 40 to Sevierville. Not particularly charming, but seems to be clean and well run. Worked well for a one night stay."
Riverside options: Riverside settings offer appeal for both tent campers and RVers. Jeff T. appreciated that Riverside RV Park & Resort has "fire rings all along the river with everyone out at night sitting along the river. Had all the amenities you would want in a full service RV Park."
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds in the Corryton area operate seasonally, particularly those at higher elevations. Summer and early fall typically provide the most reliable access for both tent and RV camping throughout the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Corryton, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Corryton, TN is TVA Public Land- Fork Bend with a 4.5-star rating from 13 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Corryton, TN?
TheDyrt.com has all 56 tent camping locations near Corryton, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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