Best Campgrounds near Mcdonald, TN

Camping near McDonald, Tennessee, offers a great mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the campfire, there are plenty of options to choose from.

What to do

• Hiking: Explore the trails at Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground. Many campers rave about the "wonderful trails leading down to the valley and the views of waterfalls." The park is known for its breathtaking vistas and well-maintained paths.
• Fishing and Swimming: Head to Harrison Bay State Park Campground for some fishing or a swim. One visitor mentioned, "There is plenty of lake access for boating, kayaking, and swimming," making it a perfect spot for water lovers.
• Caving Adventures: Check out Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground for a unique experience. A camper noted, "The tour of the caverns was well worth the money spent," highlighting the fun you can have exploring underground.

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at places like Fort Mountain State Park Campground. One reviewer said, "The bathroom and showers are very new and well-maintained," which is always a plus when camping.
• Privacy: Many enjoy the spacious sites at Chilhowee Recreation Area. A visitor mentioned, "Campsites are large, wooded, and relatively private," making it a great choice for those who want some peace and quiet.
• Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff at Lookout Mountain-Chattanooga West KOA. One guest shared, "The campground is very well maintained, with super friendly and helpful staff."

What you should know

• Crowded Campsites: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. At Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground, a camper noted, "The sites are very close together here and you can expect it to usually be booked up."
• Limited Cell Service: If you're planning to stay at Gee Creek Campground, be aware that "zero service at our site" might be an issue, so plan accordingly.
• Check-in Confusion: At Harrison Bay State Park Campground, one visitor mentioned, "Checking in is confusing because they don’t send you any info on what to do or how to get to your site."

Tips for camping with families

• Playgrounds and Activities: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly amenities. Harrison Bay State Park Campground has a "beach area you can hang out and swim at which is beautiful and is great for kids," making it a fun spot for families.
• Plan for Quiet Time: Choose campgrounds like Chilhowee Recreation Area that are known for being quiet. A camper noted, "It was very quiet," which is perfect for families with young children.
• Engage in Nature: Encourage kids to explore nature. One reviewer at Gee Creek Campground mentioned, "The kids loved the playground, and the fairytale story walk," which can make for a fun and educational experience.

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the sites before booking. A visitor at Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground said, "The sites are tight. You're right on top of each other," which might not be ideal for larger RVs.
• Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, Fort Mountain State Park Campground offers "large pull-through sites with fire pits, grills, picnic tables, and lantern poles," making it a good choice for RVers.
• Plan for Dump Stations: Be aware of dump station locations. A camper at Chester Frost Park mentioned, "Dumpsite outside the campground," so plan your trip accordingly.

Camping near McDonald, Tennessee, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With beautiful parks and friendly communities, it’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors.