Best Campgrounds near Elizabethton, TN
Camping options near Elizabethton, Tennessee range from developed state parks to riverside campgrounds in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Roan Mountain State Park Campground, located about 20 miles south of Elizabethton, provides tent and RV sites with electric hookups, showers, and cabin accommodations. The Watauga Dam Campground operated by Tennessee Valley Authority sits directly in Elizabethton, offering full-hookup sites for both tent and RV camping. Several campgrounds in the area feature access to water recreation on Watauga Lake and the Nolichucky River, with most facilities concentrated along Highway 143 and the mountain valleys surrounding the city.
Seasonal considerations affect campground availability throughout the region, with many facilities operating on limited schedules. Cardens Bluff Campground near Hampton operates from April through early November, while Little Oak Campground runs a similar season from April to October. Several campgrounds provide year-round access, including Roan Mountain State Park. Cell service can be limited or non-existent at many locations, particularly those in mountain valleys or remote areas. One camper noted about Roan Mountain State Park: "Probably the most beautiful and peaceful state park in the country! Plenty of things to do to keep you busy here. Just take plenty of time to do research on this one."
Campers consistently highlight the natural beauty and water access as primary draws to the area. The Nolichucky River and Watauga Lake provide opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and swimming at several campgrounds. Many sites feature proximity to hiking trails, including access points to the Appalachian Trail from locations like Dennis Cove Campground and Boots Off Hostel & Campground. According to one visitor at Little Oak Campground, "This campground is located about an hour or so from our home but it feels like a million miles away — in a good way!" Visitors should note that some campgrounds have limited amenities, with several primitive sites offering vault toilets but no showers. The more developed facilities typically provide electric hookups, water access, and shower facilities, though site sizes and levelness vary considerably across the region.