Camping near Blountville, Tennessee spans several forest regions with elevations ranging from 1,500-1,800 feet throughout the area. Summer temperatures typically hit 80-90°F during the day with nighttime lows in the 60s, and afternoon thunderstorms are common. Fall brings crisp 40-60°F temperatures with colorful foliage, making it a popular camping season.
What to do
Hiking and mountain biking: Warriors' Path State Park has multiple trail options for various skill levels. "The park also has events scheduled. They had a cloggers dance group when we were there, which was very nice. There are a lot of things to do in the area. Some of the hiking trails even start in the campground," notes Katrin M. about Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground.
Paddling on South Holston Lake: Rentals and lake access are available at several sites. "Little oak offered a great place to stay for a week. With south Holston lake at your finger tips it offers a great area to fish, boat, kayak, paddle board and swim," according to Jayme G. from Little Oak Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes in the area offer different fishing experiences. "The campground has plenty of room and space for your truck/boat/trailer. The campfire setup worked out well and the view of the lake was unbeatable," shares Kace L. about Little Oak Campground.
What campers like
Natural privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer wooded separation. "Our loop was very private and shaded. Our campsite had a picnic table, a fire pit, a water spigot and electricity. There is also a little creek nearby, which was perfect for the dogs," explains Katrin M. about Roan Mountain State Park Campground.
Waterfront camping options: Several campgrounds feature direct lake access. "After lunch I walked the entire campground and chose our spot. It was October and there were maybe 8-10 spots taken in the entire park. Many spots have a good amount of space between them. Pretty much all are shady," explains Nancy L. about Sugar Hollow Campground.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain their amenities regularly. "There are a lot of uneven campsites, so bring your leveling blocks. That said, great campground. The facilities were clean, the park was well kept and the train whistles were far enough away that they didn't interrupt your sleep!" shares Michelle I. about Warriors' Path State Park.
What you should know
Site sizes vary significantly: Carefully check dimensions before booking. "Pay attention to the site size as some RVs had issues getting their larger RVs in their sites with the road/site layout. Overall we loved the campground and view of the water," advises Jennifer H. about Warriors' Path State Park.
Reservation requirements differ: Some parks fill quickly, especially on weekends. "The only rough thing is no check in help. The place is gorgeous for sure. We go at least 6 times per year!" notes Linda C. about Little Oak Campground.
Weather considerations: Storms can impact unpaved roads and camping comfort. "After the boat noise dies down the lake is extremely peaceful and placid. I could not recommend this area more for a weekend away. Note the Verizon cell service is spotty at best, but sometimes this is welcomed," explains Nathan F. from Little Oak Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks have special play areas for children. "This amazing campground has spots for tent and rv camping, hiking trails, a beautiful lake for kayaking and fishing, and a Marina where rentals are available! Park also has a Boundless Playground!" shares Natalie A. about Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground.
Kid-friendly activities: Ranger programs often cater to young campers. "We spent a long weekend with several other RV couples. Nearby Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium provides engaging planetarium shows, a herpetarium, wildlife sections with bobcats, foxes, gray wolves, and raptors, as well as hiking trails," notes Sara M. about Moody Bluff Campground.
Biking opportunities: Many campgrounds have paved roads for beginners. "Brought our family here for the end of spring break and had a blast. The kids loved riding thir bikes and scooters on the paved road through the park. My son and I enjoyed a round of disk golf while my wife and daughters made use of their awesome playground," explains Jedidiah J. about Warriors' Path State Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites require blocks for proper setup. "Really nice facility near town. There are a lot of uneven campsites, so bring your leveling blocks. No real hiking but there was boat access to the lake. It's a good spot to just be outside, light a fire and toast a marshmallow," mentions Michelle I. about Warriors' Path State Park.
Site selection for large rigs: Some parks can accommodate bigger RVs. "We spent Thanksgiving here! Loved it! Was a little chilly out but the kids still played jumping in leaf piles. This is a great place to camp. Everyone is super friendly and helpful for what you need. Note: My 5th wheel is 43' and I got it in to one of their 40' sites," shares Travis R. about Warriors' Path State Park.
Connectivity options: Cell service and WiFi vary significantly. "Kingsport/Bristol has easy access from Interstate 81 and the campground is easily navigated with a large 5th wheel. They have several large pull through sites, as well as back in smaller sites. They have 50amp service and full hookup sites. Cellular reception is decent for TMobile and AT&T," explains Laura H. about Bristol-Kingsport KOA.