RV camping near Cleveland, Tennessee offers options for travelers exploring the Cherokee National Forest and Ocoee River recreation areas. The region sits at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,500 feet in the camping areas. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F during daytime, while winter can bring occasional snow and temperatures below freezing.
What to do
Hiking at Chilhowee Recreation Area: Located 25 miles from Cleveland, this campground connects to 25 miles of hiking and biking trails. "Several hikes for all levels. We did the Benton Falls hike and it was lovely! 3 miles RT. Fall color was just peaking," reports one visitor at Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Rafting the Ocoee River: Many campgrounds serve as base camps for whitewater adventures. "We stayed here for the weekend when we were rafting the Ocoee. Small Campground but perfect if rafting," notes a camper at Parksville Lake RV Campground. Water release schedules affect rapids - "Plan your visit around the water release. There schedule is online. Pretty cool to see the water trickle and then mass of water come at you."
Mountain biking: The area offers technical trails for various skill levels. A reviewer at Top of the World RV mentions the campground is "Close to grocery stores & TONS of mountain goodness" with convenient access to regional trail systems.
What campers like
Shaded sites: Many campers appreciate tree cover during summer months. At Parksville Lake, "The RV Campground area is nicely shaded" and "The small loop is perfect for a family get away. Close Creek and hiking provided plenty of activity for little ones and not overly crowded like bigger campgrounds."
Creek access: Several campgrounds feature water features. "We had a great experience at this little campground. There are several sites along a beautiful little creek," wrote one camper about Parksville Lake RV Campground. Another noted, "Nice little creek flows nearby, had a great experience!"
Clean facilities: Despite rustic settings, many campgrounds maintain good standards. "The bathroom and shower house is small and older, but very clean. The camp host was very helpful and friendly," reports one camper. Another mentioned "The showers were clean, hot and great water pressure."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location and carrier. A Chilhowee Recreation Area visitor noted, "There is no WiFi or AT&T cellular signal in this park. However, if you drive to any of the scenic overlooks just outside the park, you will get AT&T LTE signal."
Reservation timing: Sites fill quickly during peak seasons. One camper advised, "The RV Campground area is nicely shaded. Several sites were closed in mid-September due to social distancing. If interested in this area, I would try to lock in a spot as early as you can."
Road conditions: Mountain roads present challenges. A reviewer warned about Chilhowee, "To get to this campground you have to go up a steep narrow windy mountain road" and "Roads around the loops were narrow but there were big 5th wheel rigs so its doable."
Tips for camping with families
Look for creek-adjacent sites: Children enjoy water play opportunities. "Close Creek and hiking provided plenty of activity for little ones and not overly crowded like bigger campgrounds," noted a visitor at Parksville Lake.
Consider temperature variations: Mountain elevations mean cooler nights. A camper at Battlefield Campground & RV Park mentioned, "This is an excellent place for long-term campers, and it includes a nice playground, a pool, and a camp store/clubhouse."
Check for family amenities: Some campgrounds offer specific facilities. "Loops A&B are closest to the lake and looked great for groups, or folks with kids," observed a visitor to Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: Many campgrounds have specific limitations. At Whitewater RV Park, "The sites are level and concrete with a nice fire pit," providing stable parking for larger vehicles.
Access challenges: Mountain terrain can complicate entry. "Only issue with Parksville lake is that it is a tight drive into the sites," noted one RVer. Another advised, "If large rig then call for advice on site. Our site was exactly what we needed."
Hookup details: Services vary between parks. At Overnite RV Park, a visitor noted, "Description says no 30amp sites, but they do have 30amp. There are small grass spots in between the sites for pets, but also a larger grassy area 'pet walk' at the end."
