Camping sites near Bulls Gap, Tennessee provide easy access to the scenic Cherokee Lake and several state parks within the Appalachian foothills. The area sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation with relatively cool summers compared to lower-lying regions. Most campgrounds in the region operate year-round due to the mild climate, though winter temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing between December and February.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Cherokee Lake Campground offers waterfront sites with direct lake access. "Several Lake front spots. Shower and bathroom buildings on site... Lots of walking trails. As well as a boat ramp."
Water recreation: Lakefront Glamping Resort provides paddleboard and kayak rentals. "We chose the SUP n Stay package (middle price option); included in our reservation was the rental of either a SUP or kayak. The Stay package includes accommodations plus a floating lake mat."
Historic exploration: Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park features a replica historic farm with educational programs. "There's also a sweet man who gives tours of the replica farm of David Crocket.. in character and costume. Clean bathrooms. Overall a great place to camp, particularly with kids."
What Campers Like
Smaller crowds: Cosby Campground attracts fewer visitors than other Smoky Mountain locations. "This location is a great choice for anyone who wants to visit GSMNP while avoiding some of the crowds. This campground rarely fills up, allowing for the opportunity to pick your site when you get there."
Clean facilities: Baileyton KOA Holiday maintains well-kept bathrooms and campsites. "The bathrooms and showers were so clean! As clean as any hotel. I would definitely recommend this campground." Another reviewer noted: "We were only here for one night in the rain but it was quiet and the bath hall was spotless!"
Private fishing: Share the Farm offers a personal fishing pond exclusive to campers. "Quiet campground with a private pond for fishing." The 22-site campground provides a more intimate setting than larger facilities in the region.
What You Should Know
Site levelness: Finding level ground can be challenging at some Bull Gap area campgrounds. "Beautiful clean park. We stayed here overnight just as a stopping point on our trip, but we were pleasantly surprised! Nice pool, very clean park, lots of things for the kids... We stayed in a pull through site and it was not very level."
Weather considerations: The region experiences four distinct seasons, with potential for inclement weather year-round. "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."
Pet policies: Panther Creek State Park Campground allows pets in camping areas but restricts them on trails. "Note that dogs are welcome in the campground but not on the majority of the trails." Some facilities near Bulls Gap prohibit pets entirely, so check before booking.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Panther Creek State Park offers multiple play areas. "Very nice bathrooms. The sites aren't the most private we've ever stayed at, but the mountain biking was so much fun we didn't care! Hiking and biking was an A+. Great place for families because of the surrounding wooded activities."
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds schedule special weekend events. "They have activities on the weekends. 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) looks like a lot of seasonal campers here but maintained very well."
Educational opportunities: Bring children to ranger programs when available. "The rangers have programs regularly. Lots of trails leave at the campground and also nearby. There's a touristy town nearby with more attractions...try the rafting trips from any of the companies in town."
Tips from RVers
Highway accessibility: Most campgrounds near Bulls Gap offer quick access from I-81. "This is a very nice place for an overnight stop, probably one of the nicest for a KOA. Very clean and tidy campground. Mostly level, gravel sites. But some grass between sites! Some shade. Full hookups."
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections are common, but sewer hookups vary. "Overall was impressed with the grounds! Well kept, and huge park. Only reason for 4 stars, is no sewer hookup on site. Several Dump stations on grounds, though they are free for guests."
Site selection: Request specific sites when making reservations. "The sites in the upper curve are bigger then the ones on the hill. There are several that offer tent pads and small vehicle pads. Check your lengths and bring your leveling boards."
