RV camping near Elizabethton, Tennessee provides access to the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains where elevations range from 1,500 to 3,000 feet. The region features a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, making it suitable for year-round camping, though fall foliage season (mid-October to early November) sees the heaviest visitor traffic. Weather conditions can change rapidly in mountain areas, with temperature differences of 10-15 degrees between valley campgrounds and higher elevations.
What to do
Trout fishing in mountain streams: At Mountain Stream RV Park, campers can fish directly from their sites. "A beautiful level sites backed right up to Buck Creek where we enjoyed catching trout straight from our campsite," notes one visitor. The park is catch-and-release only, making it perfect for teaching fishing skills without needing a license.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: The region offers access to famous hiking trails within a short drive. "Located near many great hikes and river access. My Mitchell is about 60 minutes away on a beautiful drive," says a Mountain Stream RV Park camper. Most trails are well-marked but require sturdy footwear due to rocky terrain.
Virginia Creeper Trail cycling: Laurel Creek RV Park in nearby Damascus, Virginia provides direct access to this popular 34-mile rail trail. "This campground is small and no bathrooms, but it is directly on the Creeper so that makes up for it! Great location also because it is close to restaurants and the center of the small town," reports one visitor. Bicycle rentals and shuttle services are available in town for $30-50 per day.
What campers like
Peaceful creek-side settings: Campers consistently praise the calming effect of staying near moving water. "The sound of the stream was so peaceful and relaxing. My husband did yoga every morning while I hung in my hammock and watched," writes one visitor to Mountain Stream RV Park. These settings offer natural white noise that masks road sounds and neighboring campers.
Community atmosphere: Several campgrounds foster socializing among guests. At Three Peaks RV Resort, visitors appreciate the thoughtful layout. "When I drove up the Three Peaks driveway for the first time a couple weeks ago, I got a huge smile on my face. The big trees surrounding the campground, mountain views, and birdsong put me right at ease," shares one camper.
Wildlife viewing: Local campgrounds provide opportunities to observe native species. "We had a lovely experience during our stay in our Class C RV. Wayne the owner operator was the sweetest gentleman. Spot was level with full hookups. Laundry $ & Propane $. Pond to fish. WiFi. beautiful Mountain Views to enjoy," notes a visitor to Grandview Ranch RV Park.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies throughout the region based on terrain. "There is a little fenced in dog park, too (it even has a nice dog wash station!). Beautifully landscaped with lots of flowers, bird feeders and little white lights at night," comments a visitor to Mountain Stream RV Park, who also mentioned that cell service is limited but WiFi helps compensate.
Seasonal operation: Not all campgrounds remain open year-round. "Located in Spruce Pine with tons of local organic offerings, is only 3 miles away. It's a great little town, with lots of art, shopping, and terrific restaurants," notes a Three Peaks RV Resort camper, who visited during the peak summer season when all amenities were available.
Site spacing considerations: Linville Falls Campground and other established sites can be tightly packed. "The spaces are close together and many of them are not shaded very well. There are better campgrounds nearby," cautions one visitor. Researching specific site dimensions before booking helps ensure compatibility with your camping setup.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with play areas: Some parks offer dedicated children's facilities. "We are tent campers and loved our time here! There are A LOT of spots in a small area. That would be my only complaint if you want to call it that. The campgrounds clean and the owners are super nice and helpful. We have a dog and love the dog park!" shares a Linville Falls visitor.
Consider water play options: Creeks provide natural entertainment for children. "We visited in July 2024. This is a great older campground. It has been well taken care of over the years. The Rangers on staff are great. There are no showers on site, but there are flushable toilets," notes another Linville Falls camper.
Check bathroom facilities: Around Pond RV Park receives positive feedback for its clean facilities. "Cute pond with swans and ducks. Lots of spots available but they're not particularly level and not private. Nice owner. Close to highway," writes one visitor. Family-friendly campgrounds typically offer larger restrooms and some include family shower rooms.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds in the area require some leveling work. "Very open area with a lot of RV's and a really nice fishing lake. Well maintained and manicured," explains an Around Pond RV visitor. Experienced RVers recommend bringing extra leveling blocks for the region's often uneven terrain.
Pay attention to rig size limits: Butler TN RV Campsite offers just one site but with comprehensive hookups. "Absolutely beautiful mountain retreat. This single RV campsite has full hookups, including 30&50 amp electric, sewer, water and wireless WiFi. Easy paved road access with gravel driveway," shares a visitor. Many smaller mountain campgrounds have limited turning radius for larger rigs.
Reserved hookup access: Not all sites offer full utilities. "Management/owner very accommodating. Very short stay for us, just passing through. Quiet campground," notes a camper at Lakeview RV Resort. When traveling through the Elizabethton area, booking hookup sites in advance prevents disappointment, especially during peak seasons when utility sites fill quickly.
