Cabin camping near Eidson, Tennessee offers visitors multiple options within an hour's drive of this eastern Tennessee location. Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains at approximately 1,400 feet elevation, this region experiences moderate seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging 75-85°F and winter lows around 30°F. Camping facilities range from rustic riverside accommodations to fully-equipped cabin compounds with entertainment amenities.
What to do
River activities: The French Broad River provides recreational opportunities for cabin campers staying at Hot Springs Campground. "We have spent many great times at Hot Springs camp grounds! Can play on the French broad river and then take a soak in the hot mineral tubs," shares Grant D.
Hiking trails: Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping offers access to well-maintained trails. "Took advantage of some of the hiking trails, which were well maintained and marked. Also, went and checked out the natural tunnel via chairlift," notes Sarah C., who appreciated the peaceful primitive camping area with tent pads, picnic tables, and fire pits.
Chairlift rides: The Natural Tunnel State Park chairlift provides scenic views and convenient access to the tunnel feature, operating weekends during the main season. "Just happened to be the one day a year the tunnel is open to walk through (it's an active railroad and closed otherwise)," explains Julie, who secured a campsite on a cancellation.
Fishing: Banks Farms Campground provides riverfront access for fishing and water activities. "Very nice camping spot next to the river. Out in the middle of no where/secluded, loved it! River was nice to float on," says Jay R. about this quieter option.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Baileyton KOA Holiday receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "Hands down the best KOA we've camped. Super Clean," states Kevin R., while Rosemary B. adds, "The bathrooms and showers were so clean! As clean as any hotel."
Family-friendly activities: Many cabin rental locations offer dedicated children's areas and scheduled entertainment. At Baileyton KOA, "Pool is salt-water so no chlorine smell. Playground is away from most camp sites and has a tire swing and small set up. They have activities planned lots on the weekend," mentions D S.
Weekend entertainment: Several campgrounds organize special events for weekend visitors. "This campground is often overlooked even though it is near an interstate highway. A family friendly, family owned campground that is well maintained and can handle big rigs. Enjoy the pool and weekend activities for the kids. You won't want to miss out on the outdoor movie nights either!" explains Ken G. about Baileyton KOA Holiday.
Location convenience: Hot Springs Campground offers both recreational opportunities and walkable town access. "Beautiful sites on the river. Walk into town for restaurants and brews! Walk to spa for soak in hot tub!!" shares Roxanne R., highlighting the proximity to local amenities.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Natural Tunnel State Park Campground stays in high demand, requiring advance planning. "Had a great weekend at Natural Tunnel State Park. This campground stays booked up but was able to get in on a cancellation for the upcoming weekend," notes Julie.
Site conditions: Tent sites at Hot Springs Campground offer waterfront options but may have traffic during peak periods. "The tents sites along the river were great, once all of the travel trailers loaded up Sunday morning and pulled out it revealed beautiful grounds. The restrooms were dated but kept clean through the weekend," explains Tra C.
Weather considerations: Summer heat affects yurts and cabin comfort at Natural Tunnel State Park. "Once we walked inside the yurt, it was like walking into an oven. The temperature had to be somewhere around 110 degrees inside," reports Myron C., who recommends bringing extension cords and fans during summer stays.
Road noise: Some cabins and sites may experience highway noise. At Baileyton KOA Holiday, Joel R. notes, "Also lots of road noise from I-81," though they still rated it "definitely above average" compared to other KOAs they've visited across 48 states.
Tips for camping with families
Hot Springs options: After hiking with children, consider the mineral spas. "A bucket list trip to step foot on the APP and spend time wandering Hot Springs NC," shares Kate M., while another camper adds, "Loved the spa. Amazing views open air hot tubs."
Pool facilities: Look for campgrounds with swimming amenities for children during summer months. At Crossville KOA, Casey G. reports, "This campground is so well thought out, maintained, and clean. The staff members are kind. Great attention to detail!"
Evening activities: Several cabin camping locations offer special nighttime programming. Beth H. explains that Baileyton KOA Holiday has "Nice pool, very clean park, lots of things for the kids. They have activities on the weekends."
Cabin sizing: Natural Tunnel State Park offers various cabin configurations for different family sizes. "There are also cabins in the campground and they have a variety of sleeping arrangements of up to sixteen people in one cabin," notes Myron C.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Check site grading before settling in. "We stayed in a pull through site and it was not very level (we had planned to not even unhook from the truck but had too bc of this)," shares Beth H. about Baileyton KOA Holiday.
Cell service variations: Connectivity differs between locations, important for those working remotely. "Cellular reception is decent for TMobile and AT&T," reports Laura H. about Bristol-Kingsport KOA, while Timothy F. mentions "My phone had three bars, Verizon 5G ultra wide signal."
Premium site options: For longer cabin stays, consider upgraded locations. Karen from Crossville KOA describes, "Nicely maintained park with level concrete sites in the front with grass, fire rings and picnic tables that were in excellent condition."
Bathroom facilities: Private bathroom setups offer more comfort for extended stays. "Each bathroom is a private toilet and shower, very clean, nicely tiled and plenty of hot water," notes Karen about Crossville KOA.