Camping sites near Ooltewah, Tennessee offer unique outdoor experiences on the northern shores of Chickamauga Lake at elevations between 700-1,000 feet above sea level. While the region's mild climate allows for extended camping seasons, summer temperatures can reach above 90°F with high humidity levels. Sites throughout the area vary significantly in terrain from lakefront locations to elevated woodland settings with distinctive oak and pine coverage.
What to do
Cavern exploration: 25-minute drive from Ooltewah at Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground offers underground adventures. "Crystal Cave was right on site and we enjoyed the guided tour. (Advanced reservations are required.)" notes one visitor, who also suggests nearby attractions: "We also loved the guided tour just down the road at Ruby Falls!"
Mountain hiking: 45 miles from Ooltewah, trails at Fort Mountain State Park Campground provide elevation gains and forest scenery. "These are awesome trails and varied trails with lots of elevation. The Gahuti is the most known hiking trail here and we never saw another hiker on the trail except each other when our solo hiking excursions crossed paths," shares one experienced hiker.
Fishing from camp: Several sites allow fishing directly from campsites. "I saw some campers in fishing kayaks come right up to the shore and hop out at their campsite," reports a visitor at Harrison Bay State Park. Waterfront sites at multiple campgrounds allow easy water access without moving your vehicle.
What campers like
Shaded, private sites: Certain campgrounds offer better tree coverage for summer heat. At Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground, "The West Rim camping loop has a total of 48 tent/RV sites with 30 or 50A hookups, water, gravel tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. This loop is far more wooded and offers a greater variety of site size and privacy."
Air-conditioned facilities: Modern amenities in natural settings receive consistent praise. "Spacious sites in D. AC bath houses!" exclaims one camper at Harrison Bay State Park, referring to the individual air-conditioned bathroom facilities that provide relief during humid summer months.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers mention animal sightings as highlights. At Chester Frost Park, "Clean well run campground. Quiet and peaceful. Nicely maintained trash cans near each site. Sites near the lake have easy access to the water," notes one reviewer, while others frequently mention deer sightings throughout the property.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect availability: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. Chester Frost Park runs "April 1 to October 30," while others maintain limited winter operations with reduced services.
Reservations crucial for waterfront sites: Premium waterfront locations fill quickly. "We lived only 5 Miles from Harrison Bay State Park. We stayed in the Tent camping area recently. Lots of shade and one bath house with four separate shower/rest room combos, air conditioned as well," explains a local camper at Harrison Bay State Park Campground.
Highway noise affects some locations: Campgrounds near interstates trade convenience for quiet. At Battlefield Campground, "the interstate runs directly beside the campground, and is visible from the storage sites across from sites 11-24," though the reviewer adds that "most of the sites here are nicely wooded, and as the area is slightly hilly there are elevation changes between several rows of sites which allows for a little more privacy."
Wildlife precautions required: Bears and raccoons visit regularly. "The Raccoons are relentless don't leave any food out and be sure you have good strong storage containers. They are fun to watch though," advises a Harrison Bay State Park camper.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated kid areas: Several locations feature family-friendly amenities. At Holiday Travel Park, "There is also a dog park located at the campground entrance so the four legged kids can run freely, and a playground next to the dog park, however it is in full sun so will be hot during the summer months."
Consider platform camping options: Unique sleeping arrangements appeal to adventurous families. "Fort Mountain is a huge campground, offering 70 drive-in campsites for tents/campers, 6 platform sites, 4 walk in sites, 4 backcountry sites, and 3 pioneer sites," explains a visitor, noting that "the platform sites are a short walk from a parking area near the lake so you can make multiple trips to the car if necessary."
Look for swimming areas with safety features: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming spots. "This place is definitely somewhere you wanna bring your kids they would love it! There is a man made beach with a playground and loads of camping lots next to the river!" shares an enthusiastic visitor to Chester Frost Park.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling before booking: Many RV sites require substantial leveling. At Chattanooga North-Cleveland KOA, a reviewer noted, "RV Sites are mostly level, there were a few that were not as level," emphasizing the importance of asking about specific site conditions when making reservations.
Consider site privacy and layout: RV camping experiences vary widely based on site positioning. "They have RV Sites - full and partial hook ups, Cabins, Tent Sites, and lots of activities. The park is clean and well kept. It is quiet at night even being near an interstate. You are led to your site by staff at the park," reports a KOA visitor.
Verify hookup availability before arrival: Not all sites offer complete services. "They do not allow you to set up the tent on the same site so you have to rent an extra space," shares one KOA visitor with a mixed camping setup, highlighting the importance of confirming specific accommodation policies.
