Dandridge, Tennessee sits at the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains on the banks of the Douglas Lake reservoir, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,400 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers that average 85°F and mild winters typically staying above freezing. Rainfall occurs year-round, making waterproof camping gear essential even during summer months when thunderstorms can develop quickly.
What to do
Fishing access: At Panther Creek State Park Campground, you can take advantage of the proximity to Cherokee Lake. "Great trails, and other activities with a great lake for kayaking," notes Larry M., who found this aspect of the campground particularly appealing.
Historic buildings exploration: The Cades Cove Campground area offers numerous historic structures. "Go on the car tour loop and make sure to stop and look at the cabins and church. History at its finest," recommends Buck R., highlighting the educational aspect of camping in this region.
Mountain biking: For active outdoor enthusiasts, some campgrounds maintain dedicated trails. "The mountain biking was so much fun we didn't care! Hiking and biking was an A+," shares Penny M. about her experience at Panther Creek, where the quality of trails outweighed any site privacy concerns.
Wildlife viewing: The Cataloochee Campground offers exceptional elk viewing opportunities. "If you want to see the elk, you're going to have to be up early. I use to be in the park at 5 AM with night vision gear," advises Patrick K., who photographed numerous elk during his stays.
What campers like
Creek access: Water features rank high on campers' preference lists. "The sites arnt very large so check the internet under TN State Parks for available sites. The Campground sits away from the pool and Cherokee Lake but a short drive to the boat ramp allowed for some fun fishing," explains Diane H. about Panther Creek State Park Campground.
Quiet atmosphere: Some campers value the peaceful settings. "Cataloochee is my favorite campground in the great Smoky Mountains national Park. It's secluded, on the small side, and quiet," reports Kristina, who appreciates the family-friendly environment without the noise of large RVs.
Horse-friendly areas: While horse campgrounds near Dandridge, Tennessee are limited, some locations within driving distance accommodate equestrian needs. "We stayed in the horse camp," notes Robbie S. about his experience at Cades Cove, one of the few areas that provides designated equestrian camping spaces.
Proximity to hiking trails: Many campers appreciate easy trail access. "The campground is beautiful and on certain days they close off the loop of Cades Cove for bicycles to be able to ride," Jeremy H. mentions, highlighting the recreational opportunities directly from the campsite.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some equestrian-friendly campgrounds requires preparation. "Access to Cataloochee is via a narrow, winding, mountain road. A 3-mile stretch of gravel road contains many narrow, blind curves," Kristina warns, noting that large RVs are discouraged due to these conditions.
Reservation requirements: Securing spots at popular campgrounds requires planning. "Reservations are highly recommended, but it is possible except on the busiest weekends to occasionally snag one of the not so prime sites," advises Kristina about camping at Cataloochee.
Limited amenities: Big Creek Campground offers a more primitive experience. "You cannot park your car right on the campsite. There is a parking lot and you need to carry your gear in. It's about 100 feet to the sites," explains Katrin M., who still enjoyed the campground despite its limited facilities.
Seasonal concerns: "Panther Creek is notorious for ticks. I pulled 6 off of me in one day," warns Dusty W., reminding visitors to conduct regular tick checks during warmer months when spending time outdoors.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Townsend-Great Smokies KOA provides water recreation for children. "Super clean, friendly staff, great camp sites. I love the patio sites. Great access to the river for tubing!" reports Addy, highlighting features that keep children entertained.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "All kinds of stuff for the kids. Two pools, jump pillow and pad, banana bikes, play ground and three ponds for fishing," shares Robbie T. about his experience at Cherokee Great Smokies KOA.
Wildlife viewing tips: When camping with children in equestrian regions near Dandridge, morning viewing works best. "Early in the morning or late in the afternoon, you can drive about a mile, and sometimes less, to see elk and lots of them," advises Jodie K. about Cataloochee Valley, adding that rangers monitor wildlife interactions for safety.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Riverside RV Park & Resort, location matters. "Easy to get from Knoxville without going into the craziest part of traffic in Sevierville. There are many RV sites and cabins along the bend of the Little Pidgeon River," notes Jeff T., who appreciated the park's accessibility.
Site leveling needs: Prepare for terrain variations at equestrian campgrounds near Dandridge. "Check your lengths and bring your leveling boards," advises Shelly S. about Panther Creek State Park, where sites are situated on gradual hills that may require equipment adjustments.
Space considerations: RV parking varies significantly between campgrounds. "Sites are limited and must be reserved through the phone or website," notes Todd R. about Big Creek Campground, highlighting the importance of confirming site specifications before arrival.
