Glamping options near Bulls Gap, Tennessee have evolved to offer more water-focused experiences in recent years. Located in the northeastern corner of the state at approximately 1,300 feet elevation, this area features numerous waterways including Cherokee Lake, Douglas Lake, and the French Broad River. Temperatures range from 30-50°F in winter to 70-90°F during summer months, with the primary glamping season running May through September.
What to do
Water activities at Lakeside Getaway on Douglas: The property features paddle sport launches directly from their private dock for kayaking and paddleboarding. "There is a sitting area and a dock with paddle sport launches. There were tents/yurts for rent. A few other tent campers, a full size RV motorhome and a camper van," notes Richard T.
Hiking to historical sites: Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground offers multiple hiking trails right on the property. "We appreciated the fact that there are a few trails right there on the property and that there is also a museum on the property where you can learn lots about the history of this famous Tennessean for which the campsite and park were named," says Richard W.
River tubing: Triple Creek Campground provides opportunities for floating down gentle creek waters. According to Patti C., "Lots of places for the kids to float down on intertubes. The owners and staff are so kind, they make you feel at home."
What campers like
Private bathhouse facilities: Greenbrier Campground offers individual bathroom units rather than communal facilities. "The bath houses were awesome with individual rooms equipped with toilet, sink and shower," explains Elizabeth B., adding that "the swimming hole was a blessing durning the hot days! (Think ice bucket challenge)."
River sounds for relaxation: Triple Creek lives up to its name with the therapeutic sounds of moving water. "Since it is a rolling creek it makes such beautifully tranquil noise. I slept so good when it wasnt too hot to sleep with the windows open," shares Patti C.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Baileyton KOA Holiday receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "The bathrooms and showers were so clean! As clean as any hotel. I would definitely recommend this campground," writes Rosemary B. Another camper, Melissa S., confirms: "We were only here for one night in the rain but it was quiet and the bath hall was spotless!"
What you should know
Weather contingencies: Rain can create challenging conditions at some locations. "The rain resulted in a very muddy area around the A-Frame and Tennessee mud is no joke. We accumulated about an inch of the thick gooey mud on our shoes," reports Lee D. at Lakefront Glamping Resort Cherokee Lake Tennessee.
Road noise considerations: Some properties have highway proximity that affects the experience. At Newport-Smoky Mountains KOA, one reviewer notes: "Highway traffic noise (semis, engine braking) is LOUD...might be ok in a camper but not in a tent."
Limited WiFi connectivity: Internet access varies widely between properties. At Baileyton KOA Holiday, Joel R. shares: "The internet is VERY slow. Also lots of road noise from I-81."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Triple Creek Campground offers numerous recreation options beyond water play. "There is a big field where kids could play, with a play set and many other things to keep them busy. There was also a stage that wasn't used because of Covid but I'm guessing is usually used throughout the summer," notes Tony M.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds feature water access for cooling off. Baileyton KOA Holiday includes "a pool, playground, driving range, big water slide," according to Joel R.
Weekend programming: Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground regularly schedules activities. "This is a small Park, but they always have something going on in season," reports Robert L.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional adjustments for RVs. At Hot Springs Campground, one reviewer mentions: "We stayed in a pull through site and it was not very level (we had planned to not even unhook from the truck but had too bc of this)."
Full hookup availability: Davy Crockett Birthplace offers complete RV services. "Nice campground with full amenities. Have stayed here at least 2X per year the last several years. Restrooms/Bathhouses are always clean," writes Robert L.
Site spacing considerations: Greenbrier Campground balances proximity with privacy. "Sites are a little cramped but they did a nice job separating with trees and such. Location is perfect with tons of stuff to do within very short drives," notes Mark W.
