Kelly W.
Scout
ScoutPanther Creek State Park Campground
Panther Creek State Park
Lovely camping site employees are courteous and helpful the area is super neat and clean. Very pretty and borders a lake
Camping near Chuckey, TN
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Campers exploring the Chuckey, Tennessee region encounter a variety of developed and primitive camping options within the foothills of eastern Tennessee. Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground provides access to the Nolichucky River with mixed-use accommodations supporting both tent and RV camping. Other established sites in the area include Nolichucky Gorge Campground, which features riverside cabins, and Lazy Llama Campground with 42 sites for tents and recreational vehicles. The proximity to the Appalachian Mountains creates diverse terrain options, from waterfront campsites to more secluded woodland settings within a short drive of Chuckey.
Many campgrounds in the region remain open year-round, with Horse Creek Recreation Area operating seasonally from May through October. Access roads to most established campgrounds accommodate standard vehicles, though some riverside sites may have limited space for larger RVs. Campground amenities vary significantly, with several locations offering electric hookups, drinking water, and shower facilities. Cell phone reception can be inconsistent throughout the area, particularly in campgrounds situated along river valleys or in more remote locations. Several visitors noted the importance of checking specific campground restrictions, as one reviewer mentioned that "alcohol is prohibited" at certain state park facilities while private campgrounds may have different policies.
Water features prominently in the camping experience near Chuckey, with the Nolichucky River providing both scenic views and recreational opportunities. Campers frequently mention enjoying sites with river access, particularly at Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park, which one visitor described as offering a "beautiful view of Nolichucky River." The area balances convenience with natural beauty, as most established campgrounds lie within reasonable driving distance of basic amenities in nearby towns like Greeneville and Erwin. Families and groups appreciate campgrounds with picnic tables and fire rings, while RV travelers often seek out locations with full hookups. The mixed-use nature of many campgrounds allows visitors to choose accommodation styles ranging from primitive tent sites to fully-equipped RV pads or rental cabins depending on preference.
Best Campgrounds near Chuckey (359)
1. Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground
"Large swimming pool, TONS of historical events around, hiking & river walks. Super clean and new bath houses as well. Honors Tennessee state discounts. If possible make reservations online."
"The drive in follows the TN “Sunnyside Early Country Trail” through picturesque farmland with mountains in the near distance. Do your shopping before arrival, there’s nothing close to the park."
from $14 - $32 / night
Check Availability2. Baileyton KOA Holiday
"Conveniently located close to highway 81 and town!"
"Even though it's very close to the interstate, it was very quiet. We had a full hook up site, relatively level. It had a picnic table and fire ring."
3. Horse Creek Recreation Area
"Having both RV and tent campgrounds, each with large fire pits and lantern stands, this peaceful creekside setting lies just beyond low mountain farms in the northern part of Greene County Tennessee."
"Nice trails."
from $10 / night
Check Availability4. Hot Springs Campground
"With mountains in the distance and the constant rush of the French Broad River, the setting is awesome. Even the occasional train whistle gives me a feeling of nostalgia and of simple days."
"The bathhouse (clean private showers and private bathrooms) was a 1/4 mile walk from our spot, but a Porta John was close by. Our particular spot had a lot of shade and easy access to the river."
5. Nolichucky Gorge Campground
"Nolichucky Gorge is right next to USA Raft, same road, same entrance to the left. Veteran owned and well maintained. The staff is friendly and professional. River view sites, other sites and cabins."
"This is a great spot located right next to USA Raft. There are a handful of tent only riverside camping spots with RV sites set back from the river."
6. Katy Branch
"Very close to many trails. Clean showers and bathrooms. Loved it."
"Came to stay at this campground because we wanted to do some hiking nearby that we haven't done in FOREVER!"
from $75 / night
Check Availability7. Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground — Warriors' Path State Park
"We had a change of plans and made reservations at Warrior Path State Park on a whim - and are VERY glad we did."
"This beautiful 970 acre Tennessee State Park is located on the shores of the 900 acre Patrick Henry Reservoir on the Holston River in Sullivan County."
8. Around Pond RV Park
"Did a couple of days at Around the Pond Campground in Greenville Tennessee.( mtns.) It was a awesome trip with our friends Ronni Herold& Dean."
"Close to highway."
9. Lazy Llama Campground
from $48 - $52 / night
Check Availability10. Big Oak Family Farm
from $95 - $129 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 24 min from Johnson City, TN
- 36 min from Kingsport, TN
- 40 min from Morristown, TN
- 1 hr 26 min from Asheville, NC
Recent Camping Photos near Chuckey, TN
558 Photos of 359 Chuckey Campgrounds
Robert L.
Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground
Lazy L.
Lazy Llama Campground
The Dyrt
Pebble Mountain Family Campground
Greg B.
Sunny Hills Farm & Camp
Nathan F.
Horse Creek Recreation Area
John D.
Gnome Hollow at Dixon Hill Farms, LLC
Rosemary B.
Baileyton KOA Holiday
janie B.
Around Pond RV Park
Scott T.
Riverpark Campground
Mark H.
Old Farm Campground
Shelly S.
Nolichucky Gorge Campground
sandy S.
The Wandering Llamas
Recent Reviews near Chuckey, TN
1421 Reviews of 359 Chuckey Campgrounds
Mike F.ScoutDoe River Landing
Ahhh-mazing
We arrived and easily got to our spot. There’s a river just behind our spot and only a handful of RVs and cabins. Our GPS wanted us to pass the turn to the campground, we had to make a U turn to get in…. Of course, on the second approach we saw the entrance signs (my bad). It looks like it is best to approach from the west (Hampton?), it was a sharp turn entering from the east (Roan Mountain). We settled in and got to relaxing quickly.
- EEric W.
GuideSugar Hollow Campground
Arrive with 1/2 tank of fuel!
It was a long day of travel for me anyways. I arrived around 17:15 and the ranger was nowhere to be seen. Honor system was full out the form and pay cash before you go find your site.
This place is better for tent campers and those with rigs 20ft and under. Our 30ft bumper-pull was no match for the narrow sites due to trees. Most sites were not level either. As advertised, no sewer hook-up, and bring at least a 50ft hose for water…better yet, bring a 100ft hose and an additional splitter. The birds were nice to hear. It was quiet throughout the night also, mainly because there were only about 10 campers in the whole park (it holds about 78).
The bathhouses were clean and bright; but only shower curtains for doors on the toilets—reminded me of my deployment to Afghanistan.
Fuel…the hill to get in and out of the park is very steep! And if you spend time trying to fit your rig into any site you might think you can fit into but can’t, you’re going to need enough fuel to make it to the next gas station! If your rig is longer than 30ft and it’s not a 5th wheel, look elsewhere.
Personally, I won’t be stopping here again. The overall park was nice; but for $20/night, it wasn’t worth the stress.
- SSara M.Guide
Doe River Landing
What a fantastic find - small, family-owned campground in mountain heaven
Doe River Landing is a small, delightful RV and cabin camping park that sits on the banks of the Doe River in the Roan Mountain valley of TN. We enjoyed our stay enough that we extended a few extra days. Five shaded, landscaped RV sites offering water/electric are located about 20 yards from the river’s edge. An additional site offers a fully-outfitted rental RV. Sites are pea gravel and mostly level. Luxury rental cabins(5) are available along with a truly awesome rental pavilion outfitted for larger group gatherings. The friendly hosts live in a home nearby and were around daily during our stay.
For a small family campground the amenities are super nice. The top-notch children’s playground and toy shed obviously delighted guest’s children. Wi-Fi signal is strong enough for streaming. Nice, clean bathhouse. Public grills are available. Hiking trails meander along the river and up through their woods.
There are few places we enjoy more than the Roan Mountain area for camping. The location is fantastic and even peak summer temperatures are usually comfortable. Roan Mountain State Park is minutes away for hiking and a slew of activities, while the top of Roan Mountain houses the famous wild Rhododendron Gardens. The AT and multiple hiking trails run along the top of the mountain.
There were only a few considerations with this venue.
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The sites are mostly level although we needed two OxBlocks in each of the sites we stayed in. One needed leveling front-to-back, the other side-to-side. When Hurricane Helene scoured the area it likely left some dips in the parking pads.
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The bathhouse contains one toilet and shower, both housed in the same room which can tie them up for long periods.
3) There may be some day and night traffic noise as large trucks involved in repairs from Hurricane Helene are still active.
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The approach is rather challenging. New lighted signage helps identify where their single-lane entrance road takes a HARD fork off US-19E. Be sure to check the Directions tab on their website. If you are arriving from the north (through Elizabethton) you will be able to pull directly onto Bob Ray Rd.(entrance to the right of the little Bible church). Approaching from the south on US-19E is more difficult. Bob Ray Rd basically runs parallel to US-19E which requires essentially a U-turn across 2-3 lanes to accomplish. The host suggests turning through the closed fruit stand parking lot(on the left within sight of the entrance) but we weren’t sure about it given on-coming traffic. We elected to drive~ 2 miles further down 19E and U-turn across the left shoulder.
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Bob Ray Rd is a single-lane road. Based on timing for check-in/check-out you are unlikely to meet another RV coming at you(thankfully!)
Multiple choices for food in the area. The Whiteway Grill– less than 5 minutes away- offers fabulous breakfasts. Smoky Mountain Bakers is beyond awesome! Wood-fired pizza for dinner and breakfast plates from simple sandwiches to breakfast burritos, pancakes and French toast. We find excuses to eat here during the week. Every meal we’ve had at Puerto Escondido Mexican restaurant was huge(as in leftovers) and tasty.
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- KKane G.
TravelerWeaver Bend Road
Great riverside spot
Overall, a decent dispersed camping spot. I saw and heard no one my entire time at this spot. It’s right on the river which is great. The drive in is mostly paved, but a little narrow. Please pack your trash out though. It seems like no matter the state I camp in, people leave their trash. This site was particularly bad. It’s good to go now, but bring a bag and leave it nicer than you found it.
- KKatie M.Scout
Dark Ridge HideOut (Adults Only)
Awesome private campground!
The owner was super nice and gave us all the info we needed! Very close to the falls to swim at and hike to (wear hiking shoes to get to the falls) over all great quiet little campground!
- JJanet P.Scout
Roan Creek Campground
Constant harassment from owners
This campground is not 420 friendly! It’s Tn where MJ is illegal. We have RX but we were harassed non stop. One day the owner said to smoke by River, next day somewhere else! Owner also would snoop around my camper to upset my Belgian Mal. We spent a miserable summer here May-Nov. Never again! All was ok until we set up!
Carrie S.TravelerMammoth Ridge RV Park
Great place!
This is the best place to park your travel trailer for a few days! Tons of space it’s not to crowded and everyone is so nice
- Kathy G.Scout
Weaver Bend Road
Dispersed camping along the French broad river
We found the the best spot we have ever stayed. Big sandy beach down a 100 foot decline. Parked at the top where there is a fire ring and nice size flat spot for a small camper or truck set up like we had. Very secluded. Can’t believe we got this spot. So thankful. Pack it in pack it out
Guide to Chuckey
Camping spots near Chuckey, Tennessee sit at elevations between 1,400-1,800 feet in the eastern Tennessee foothills where the Nolichucky River cuts through limestone terrain. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing with occasional snow, while summer brings humidity and temperatures averaging in the mid-80s. Most campgrounds in this area provide river access with varying degrees of amenities depending on whether they're publicly or privately managed.
What to do
Historical exploration: Visit the replica cabin and museum at Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground. "There is 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," writes Richard W. Another visitor notes there's "a sweet man who gives tours of the replica farm of David Crocket.. in character and costume."
Water recreation: Float the Nolichucky River when water levels are suitable during summer months. The campground at Nolichucky Gorge provides equipment for this activity. "The water levels are perfect for floating around and playing in the river. There's even a little path you can take a tube up and float back down," notes Kara P. Some campers appreciate that "It was awesome when we kayaked and took out at our site," according to Emma T.
Hiking: Explore multiple trail systems within a 15-minute drive of most camping spots. Horse Creek Recreation Area offers trails through deciduous forest. W L. describes the area as "a peaceful creekside setting lies just beyond low mountain farms in the northern part of Greene County Tennessee. A thick forest of deciduous trees partially isolates each campground for a relaxed evening."
What campers like
Riverside sites: Camp within earshot of flowing water at several campgrounds in the region. Hot Springs Campground sites are positioned along the French Broad River. Karen P. notes it has "Dirt site by the River all hook ups. They also have small cabins and tent sites. Walking distance to trails and town." Another camper mentioned, "Beautiful sites on the river. Walk into town for restaurants and brews!"
Family-friendly amenities: Enjoy playgrounds and activity areas that keep children entertained. Gregg G. found that Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park had "nice trails for hiking. There is river access for fishing or launching a water craft." Rebecca M. adds that "The camp grounds run right up against the river which makes for a nice view and are well kept... Playground is great and was perfect for our girl scout trip."
Clean facilities: Access well-maintained bathhouses in most established campgrounds, though quality varies by season. Baileyton KOA Holiday receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "The bathrooms and showers were so clean! As clean as any hotel," writes Rosemary B. Kevin R. simply states it's "Hands down the best KOA we've camped."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Check opening dates before planning trips, especially during winter months. While some campgrounds operate year-round, others have limited seasons. Horse Creek Recreation Area runs from May through October only. Nathan F. notes "Although you can hear and see some of the other campers from the main loop, this is still a wonderfully peaceful place."
Site access varies: Research campsite-specific information when bringing equipment. At Horse Creek, Jeff B. cautions: "To be clear, there is only one site that you can drive to. When it says the sites are 'walk-in', it does not mean you can drive near your site and walk over into it. It means you have to park in a parking lot and haul your stuff up to 200 or 300 yards away along a trail over bridge."
Weather considerations: Prepare for temperature swings depending on season and elevation. Summer temperatures reach the 90s with high humidity, while winter brings freezing temperatures. "We were there in December when the weather was chilly and practically had the place to ourselves," reports Gregg G. about Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose campgrounds with built-in entertainment to occupy children during downtime. Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground offers extensive recreational facilities. "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," shares Jedidiah J.
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of ranger programs offered at state parks during peak season. Campers at Davy Crockett mention that "In the warm seasons they have a ranger that comes around and even little events for kids. I remember picking apart an owl pellet with the ranger. Very outdoor educational," recalls Travis R.
Water play options: Select sites with safe water access for supervised recreation. Around Pond RV Park offers fishing opportunities in a controlled environment. A camper describes "a really nice fishing lake. Well maintained and manicured." At Nolichucky Gorge, they "had a lily pad for general use and a little pond if you wanted something contained."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Bring blocks for uneven terrain at many area campgrounds. Michelle I. notes about Warriors' Path State Park: "There are a lot of uneven campsites, so bring your leveling blocks. That said, great campground." Other reviewers caution to carefully check site descriptions as many were designed before large RVs became common.
Size restrictions: Verify maximum length allowances before booking. Jennifer H. advises: "Pay attention to the site size as some RVs had issues getting their larger RVs in their sites with the road/site layout." However, some campers find workarounds, as Travis R. reports: "My 5th wheel is 43' and I got it in to one of their 40' sites."
Full hookup availability: Reserve early for sites with sewer connections as these are limited in the region. Around Pond RV Park offers level full-hookup sites. Peter K. says, "Site was gravel and completely level. A lot of full time campers here but that doesn't bother us at all. Nice little pond to walk the dogs around or just sit and relax."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there free camping available in Chuckey, Tennessee?
Is there free camping available in Chuckey, Tennessee?
While free camping options are limited directly in Chuckey, nearby Nolichucky Gorge Campground offers economical riverside camping just off I-26 near Erwin. For truly free camping, consider exploring dispersed camping areas in Cherokee National Forest or along the Appalachian Trail, both within driving distance of Chuckey. Always check with the Cherokee National Forest office for current regulations before setting up at dispersed sites. Some primitive camping areas may require a small fee or permit even if they don't have developed facilities.
What amenities are available at Chuckey campgrounds?
What amenities are available at Chuckey campgrounds?
Campgrounds around Chuckey offer a variety of amenities to enhance your camping experience. Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground features pull-through spaces for large and small campers, clean and modern bath houses, a swimming pool, and beautiful views of the Nolichucky River. Fox Fire Riverside Campground offers riverside campsites with bath houses within walking distance. Other campgrounds in the region typically provide drinking water, toilet facilities, fire rings, and picnic tables. Some also offer electrical hookups, dump stations, and camp stores. Premium RV resorts in the area may include additional amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and recreational areas.
What are the best times of year to camp in Chuckey, TN?
What are the best times of year to camp in Chuckey, TN?
The prime camping season in Chuckey runs from late spring through early fall (May to October). Fall is especially popular as Little Oak Campground and surrounding areas showcase stunning autumn foliage, particularly in October. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities on the Nolichucky River, though humidity can be high in July and August. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers at Panther Creek State Park Campground, about an hour away. Winter camping is possible but less common due to colder temperatures, though some campgrounds remain open year-round with reduced services. For the best balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds, aim for May-June or September-October.
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