C
Carol B.
Scout
Scout1776 RV And Campground
Excellent campground!!!
Beautiful surroundings and very quiet. Fast and easy response from owners.Clean and well maintained .I definitely recommend to everyone!!!
Discover the Best Camping Near Ooltewah, Tennessee
Campgrounds near Ooltewah, Tennessee range from full-service RV parks to rustic state park settings along Chickamauga Lake. The area features several developed campgrounds including Harrison Bay State Park and Chattanooga North-Cleveland KOA, offering a mix of tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and cabin rentals. Most campgrounds in the region provide basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to water. Several sites like Chester Frost Park accommodate various camping styles including glamping options, while others specialize in RV-only facilities with full hookups. The Ooltewah area's campgrounds are ideal for both weekend getaways and longer camping trips, with many sites offering direct lake access for water recreation.
Access to most mixed-use campgrounds remains consistent throughout the year, though some facilities like Chester Frost Park operate seasonally from April through October. Weather conditions in eastern Tennessee can influence camping experiences, with humid summers and mild winters typical for the region. Many campgrounds require reservations, particularly during peak summer months and holiday weekends when waterfront sites fill quickly. The terrain throughout the area features rolling hills and lakefront properties, with most developed campgrounds situated on relatively level ground accessible via paved roads. A visitor at Harrison Bay State Park noted: "It is great to have so many beautiful state parks in my back yard. Harrison Bay is a wonderful relaxing getaway for us, just a short 45 minute drive and we are in heaven."
Waterfront camping dominates the region's offerings, with several campgrounds situated along Chickamauga Lake providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. Campers frequently mention wildlife sightings as highlights of their stay, particularly at Harrison Bay State Park where deer, raccoons, and various bird species are common visitors to campsites. While proximity to water attracts many campers, those seeking more seclusion might prefer sites tucked into wooded areas. Campground reviews consistently mention family-friendly environments with activities ranging from hiking and biking to swimming. One camper observed that Harrison Bay State Park "is one of the smaller campgrounds we use and that is why we like it so much, makes it more peaceful." Developed campgrounds throughout the region vary in size and privacy levels, with options ranging from spacious sites with ample separation to more closely arranged facilities designed to maximize capacity.
Best Camping Sites Near Ooltewah, Tennessee (398)
1. Harrison Bay State Park Campground
58 ReviewsHarrison, TN8 milesWebsite+1 (423) 344-6214$22 - $28 / night
"Harrison Bay is a huge park, with four camping loops (3 for RVs, 1 for tents), and a large marina, located on the Chickamauga Reservoir of the Tennessee River."
"This is a great family campground and Tennessee State Park located on Chickamauga Lake of the Tennessee River. Good playground for the Grandkids and bicycle paths."
2. Chester Frost Park
35 ReviewsHarrison, TN9 milesWebsite+1 (423) 842-0177$21 - $30 / night
"Tons of room to walk and play. Great swimming and fishing. Boating is huge here Bc there are docks all around the campground to pull up to. Playgrounds everywhere."
"They have a frisbee golf course, playgrounds, walking trails, beach, easy access to the water and fields to start up any activity you desire. We read about uneven campsite but ours was pretty flat."
3. Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground
188 ReviewsTrenton, GA31 milesWebsite+1 (706) 657-4050$10 - $270 / night
"Campground Review:East Rim Campground Pro’s: 1-Handicap Accessible, there is a cabin which is also HDA. 2- If your visiting for a get together your right next to the day use area and there is a picnic"
"We stopped in for a few hours on our drive home from Tennessee. We drove through the campgrounds to scout out our site."
4. Chattanooga North-Cleveland KOA
16 ReviewsMcdonald, TN7 milesWebsite+1 (423) 472-8928$55 / night
"I should have gotten one of their little cabins...they look cozy and they are right next to the primitive camping."
"The sites are very close together so there is not much room to move around or have pets outside. The rates are higher than I would like to pay but you more amenities for the price."
5. Holiday Travel Park
19 ReviewsFort Oglethorpe, GA11 milesWebsite+1 (706) 891-9766$36 - $105 / night
"There were pros and cons, so I’ll start with the cons- the campground is surrounded by what looked to be a mobile home community."
"The gravel site was very level and the utilities were positioned well. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The location is easy to get to from I75/24."
6. Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground
44 ReviewsLookout Mountain, TN20 miles+1 (423) 821-9403$55 - $56 / night
"This place is Close to everything you’ll want to do in Chattanooga Tennessee"
"My family and I went a few years ago on a trip to Tennessee. It was a decent place to stay. We RV camped on this trip, but the campground had tent sites too."
7. Skull Island
7 ReviewsSoddy-Daisy, TN12 milesWebsite+1 (865) 350-6053$39 - $47 / night
"You cant beat waterfront and being able to step outside your tent and see water. What also loved was that I didn't feel crammed by other people."
"Seemed to be a lot of locals, which were good to talk with about what to do in the other nearby parks. Shady campsites but open and not too private."
8. Battlefield Campground & RV Park
8 ReviewsRinggold, GA11 milesWebsite+1 (706) 937-4166"Battlefield Campground is an extremely convenient RV park located right of I-75 about 20 minutes south of Chattanooga."
"Convenient access to the winery at the entrance!"
9. Fort Mountain State Park Campground
60 ReviewsChatsworth, GA30 milesWebsite+1 (706) 422-1932$14 - $55 / night
"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, while the backcountry sites are up to a 3 mile hike in, so all gear, food,"
"There are steps leading down to the trail around the lake."
10. Hawkins Pointe RV Park
5 ReviewsFort Oglethorpe, GA11 milesWebsite+1 (706) 820-6757$60 - $63 / night
"Close to everything. Racing just down the street. That’s a positive or negative. On the nights they are racing you hear I’m the cars at the track."
"Does have very nice place to walk, dog park/wash,corn hole, fire pit with two chairs to use. We loved it there. Check the price. Pull thru sites with picnic table."
Recent Camping Photos near Ooltewah, TN
587 Photos of 398 Ooltewah Campgrounds
Lisa S.
Chattanooga North-Cleveland KOA
Kelsey P.
Harrison Bay State Park Campground
Corbin P.
Chester Frost Park
Stephanie J.
Battlefield Campground & RV Park
Dakota Davis V.
Outland Expeditions Ocoee River
Stephanie J.
Lockhart's Arch Shelter - on the Cumberland Trail
Teo K.
overland camping ocoee
Teo K.
Overland Camping Ocoee
Nate H.
Adventures Unlimited Campground
Sterling G.
Tennessee Wall Camp
Audra R.
River Life RV Resort
Sonyia W.
Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground
Recent Reviews near Ooltewah, TN
1469 Reviews of 398 Ooltewah Campgrounds
Kelsey P.
TravelerHarrison Bay State Park Campground
Beautiful but sites are VERY uneven
I was greatly deceived by the photos and descriptions online. We had site 40 and it was much much shorter than online said and the incline was insane. I would say 90% of the sites in loops B, C, and D should not be sites. Loop A has the most level sites with a lot not having shade though. Site 15 seemed to be the best in the whole park. Leveling our popup was miserable. Most campers we saw come in seemed to be the same as us. First time being there and not realizing the sites are significantly shorter than listed and shown in photos and extremely unlevel. I couldn’t even imagine a tent camper in most sites comfortably with how much of an incline and then slope you’re on. It’s a straight up hill and then it’s tilted to the side too. Sites are also extremely close together which is fine if you plan to be out or on the water a lot but it’s very cramped.
Bathrooms in loop B were the largest and cleaned daily. Bathrooms were great with the exception of the doors being super small but not an issue really. I’m 6ft and it was just funny seeing over everything.
Lake is BEAUTIFUL. So many areas to swim and great trails. Good place for pets.
One host in the entire park and we were lucky to be next to them and listen to their dog park and cry all day and night as they never let him in. Their site is right there when you go in and just trashed with all kinds of stuff. Feels more like a trailer park than state park. Never once saw the hosts and the camp store/office was closed every day we were there (we were there for a week Sunday to Sunday) Our site had quite a bit of trash when we got there. I’m shocked how the bathrooms were kept so clean but sites were not
They have check in listed at 4pm but every day new campers were there far before 4 which isn’t a problem but helps to know you can really get there anytime.
Overall the area is amazing with so much to do for everyone. Fishing, hiking, swimming, plenty to do all around. I would come back only for loop A and site 15. Maybe some others in loop A. Unless you have a camper van that you are fine being tilted, I would avoid all loops besides A. We saw a lot of people get there and then leave when they couldn’t park or level their site and there weren’t other options any better for them
Cell service was great. T-Mobile hotspot was amazing for me to work remote
- Patricia “Ollie” F.Scout
Peakland RV Park
Very quiet! Close to boat access
I have been staying here for a couple weeks now and it has been very quiet. I have full service hook up everything I need for my RV. There’s also really amazing barbecue place right across the street and some nightlife as well.. interstate 40 is about a 35 minute drive. The owner here is really nice and accommodating.
Greg S.
LegendFort Mountain State Park Campground
4.7 stars
Spectacular scenery. The campground has two loops, both with nicely spaced out sites. We liked the creekside loop, but lakeside looked very nice as well. The lake is small but cold and clear, probably spring fed. The playground is average and they have a mini golf course that's cool. The camp store is excellent, though a drive from the campground. Also a short drive (or 3 mile hike) away is the star of the show- the overlook, tower and rock wall. Unbelievable views and great rocks to scramble and play on. The history of the mysterious rock Wall is intriguing. A great place to spend a few hours. The trails are numerous and well marked. We didn't see any bears or snakes. Overall a great place.
- Greg S.Legend
James H 'Sloppy' Floyd State Park Campground
4.5 stars
Well kept, quiet, forested campground in the foothills of NW GA. It's a small campground and a small state park relative to many, but the two small lakes are pretty and the trails are pleasant. The marble mine is definitely a cool spot and worth the 2 mile round trip. The first 12 sites are a bit closer together and less private, but the remaining sites are bigger and very nice. We enjoyed our spot by the playground. Huge site. Great if you have kids. Site 18 also looked great with a lot of grass and near the bathrooms. Cool little camp store. We enjoyed the peddle boat rental as well. Summerville is 7 minutes away if you need anything.
- FFrank J.Scout
Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp
Good free rest stop
Nothing crazy, scenic but tricky drive in here. Use the coordinates to find it, Apple Maps will send you to the other side and add a 30/40 min drive. The camping area had 1 shared restroom/porta potty type deal. The area is pretty flat ground with about 10 good spots to tent/small vehicle camp. Came on a Tuesday evening to about half the site being used. There’s signs to get here once you get close.
Kyle C.TravelerSugarberry RV Park
Extended RV Stay
Great place to stay if your here anywhere from a week to a month. The prices are very reasonable. Starting at $500/month + metered electric and $200/week (electric included).
- Arnold P.Scout
Howland's Hidout
Howland's Hideout is a hidden gem!
We camped at Howland's Hideout for two nights in our 5th wheel (water & electric hook-up plus they have a sewer dump).
So conveniently located (approx. 3 miles) from Fall Creek Falls State Park but much less noise and more relaxed.
The hosts (Kurt and Maria) went above and beyond to be sure we had everything we needed and so enjoyed getting to know them.
Their two dogs (Star & Sassy) were very friendly and our dog loved playing with them.
If you are looking for a relaxing spot to camp with great hosts, you should definitely give this place a try. We can't wait to go back.
Arnold & Debra Puckett
- GGage F.Scout
Camp Towhee near Fall Creek Falls
Great Experience
Camp Towhee is the perfect peaceful getaway near Fall Creek Falls! Spacious RV sites with full hookups, plenty of room to relax, and a quiet, well-maintained property make it ideal for a stress-free stay. Highly recommend!
Guide to Ooltewah
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Ooltewah, TN?
What camping is available near Ooltewah, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Ooltewah, TN offers a wide range of camping options, with 398 campgrounds and RV parks near Ooltewah, TN and 26 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Ooltewah, TN?
Which is the most popular campground near Ooltewah, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ooltewah, TN is Harrison Bay State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 58 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ooltewah, TN?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ooltewah, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 26 free dispersed camping spots near Ooltewah, TN.
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