Best Camping near Etowah, TN

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Etowah, TN has a lot to offer. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Etowah campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Etowah, TN. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Etowah, TN (435)

    Camper-submitted photo from Gee Creek Campground — Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gee Creek Campground — Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gee Creek Campground — Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gee Creek Campground — Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gee Creek Campground — Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gee Creek Campground — Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Chilhowee Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Chilhowee Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Chilhowee Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Chilhowee Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Chilhowee Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Chilhowee Recreation Area

    2. Chilhowee Recreation Area

    23 Reviews
    130 Photos
    268 Saves
    Benton, Tennessee

    Overview

    Located in the Chilhowee Recreation Area, Chilhowee Campground offers a multitude of camping opportunities for both RV and tent sites, many with electric hookups. The day-use area includes McKamy Lake, a swim area with sand beach, picnic sites, a group picnic area, and a bathhouse. Be Aware; Do not use GPS directions: GPS coordinates will direct you up Benton Springs Rd. This route is not recommended. We recommend using Forest Service Road 77 to reach the recreation area. It's important to note, this facility requires driving 7 miles up to Chilhowee Campground on a narrow, winding road. Do not use the Benton Springs Access Road to the campground as this is an unpaved and dangerous road for RVs. Inexperienced RV drivers may have difficulties getting to and around the site.

    Recreation

    Chilhowee Recreation Area is an excellent hub for hiking and mountain biking in the Chilhowee Trails System, fishing in McKamy Lake, and wildlife viewing without having to get in your car. The 7-acre McKamy Lake offers a swim area with a sand beach, and fishing from the bank. Boats are allowed, but gasoline motors are not. Within the recreation area are approximately 25 miles of hiking and biking trails, and a scenic waterfall. The views and lake are beautiful, especially hiking to Benton Falls via a 1.5 mile in and out moderate trail. On the drive up to the campground, stop at one of the many observation overlooks to see beautiful mountain settings. Wildlife is abundant in this area, so have your camera ready and tread lightly. Chilhowee Recreation Area Map and Guide

    Natural Features

    The Cherokee National Forest is located in eastern Tennessee and stretches from Chattanooga to Bristol along the North Carolina border. The 650,000-acre swath of land is Tennessee's only national forest. It lies in the heart of the Southern Appalachians and is home to more than 20,000 species of plants and animals, as well as many rivers, creeks and lakes.

    Nearby Attractions

    In addition to the immediate local activities, world class whitewater rafting opportunities are nearby on the Ocoee and Hiwassee Rivers.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Harrison Bay State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Harrison Bay State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Harrison Bay State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Harrison Bay State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Harrison Bay State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Harrison Bay State Park Campground

    3. Harrison Bay State Park Campground

    54 Reviews
    179 Photos
    295 Saves
    Harrison, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $22 - $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground

    4. Cades Cove Campground

    94 Reviews
    533 Photos
    608 Saves
    Townsend, Tennessee

    Overview

    Over 2 million visitors annually come to enjoy the scenic beauty of Cades Cove and its many historic structures. Popular activities here include hiking, biking, touring the 11-mile Cades Cove loop road and observing wildlife. Whether blanketed in bright wildflowers in the spring or vivid colors in the fall, the scenery at Cades Cove never disappoints.

    Recreation

    The Great Smoky Mountains are a hikers paradise and visitors to Cades Cove Campground love the 5-mile roundtrip hike to Abram Falls. From Cades Cove Loop Road, follow the signage at the turnoff for directions to the trailhead. Although Abrams Falls is only 20 feet high, the large volume of water rushing over falls more than makes up for its lack of height. The long, deep pool at its base is very picturesque. The trail to the falls traverses pine-oak forest on the ridges and hemlock and rhododendron forest along the creek. The waterfall and creek are named for Cherokee Chief Abram or Abraham whose village once stood several miles downstream. A nearby horse stable provides one-hour horseback rides as well as hay rides and carriage rides from March through October, offering recreational activities for the entire family. Campers can also enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the countless streams and rivers that snake through the mountains, with trout available in abundance.

    Natural Features

    Cades Cove is a broad, verdant valley surrounded by mountains and is one of the most popular destinations in the Great Smokies. It offers some of the best opportunities for wildlife viewing in the park. Large numbers of white-tailed deer are frequently seen, and sightings of black bear, coyote, ground hog, turkey, raccoon, skunk, and other animals are also possible. For hundreds of years Cherokee Indians hunted in Cades Cove but archeologists have found no evidence of major settlements. The first Europeans settled in the cove sometime between 1818 and 1821. By 1830 the population of the area had already swelled to 271.

    Nearby Attractions

    The park holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills, have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park, a few of which are easily accessible from the Cades Cove loop road. Townsend, located about nine miles away, offers full service grocery stores and fuel.

    Contact Info

    This location has limited staffing. Please call (865) 448-4103 for general information.

    Charges & Cancellations

    If you plan to arrive at a date later than your arrival date you MUST contact the campground office 865-448-4103 in order to avoid a cancellation to your reservation. If you wish to cancel your reservation the day of your arrival you MUST contact the campground office 865-448-4103 in order to receive a refund. Rules and reservation policies can be found at https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Boundary
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Boundary
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Boundary
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Boundary
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Boundary
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Boundary

    5. Indian Boundary

    25 Reviews
    45 Photos
    322 Saves
    Tallassee, Tennessee

    Overview

    Indian Boundary Recreation Area is the crown jewel of the South Zone of the Cherokee National Forest on the Tellico Ranger District. This family-oriented campground offers a swim beach and picnic area with grills and an accessible picnic pavilion, as well as a fantastic, 3.2-mile hiking and biking trail around the lake. Spectacular mountain views, glimpses of wildlife, and a peaceful setting await visitors who come to Indian Boundary.

    Recreation

    Opportunities abound for fishing, swimming, boating, wildlife viewing and scenic driving. Other popular activities include hiking and biking the trail around Indian Boundary Lake. The recreation area contains a swim beach, boat ramp, fishing pier, picnic area and volleyball court.

    Natural Features

    Indian Boundary Lake covers 96 acres at an elevation of 1,560 feet, and sits among hardwoods and pines. At the lake, visitors enjoy watching beaver that inhabit an adjacent pond, identifying several species of ducks and other waterfowl and trying their luck at catching bass, sunfish and catfish. The Cherokee National Forest is located in eastern Tennessee and stretches from Chattanooga to Bristol along the North Carolina border. The 650,000-acre swath of land is Tennessee's only national forest. It lies in the heart of the Southern Appalachians and is home to more than 20,000 species of plants and animals, as well as many rivers, creeks and lakes. Elevations range from 750 to 5,500 feet.

    Nearby Attractions

    The campground is two miles off the Cherohala Skyway, a 43-mile National Scenic Byway that stretches from Tellico Plains, Tennessee, to Robbinsville, North Carolina. Bald River Falls on Tellico River Road 210 is a popular destination. The Pheasant Fields Fish Hatchery also on Tellico River is operated by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and is the rearing pools for the fish stocking program on Tellico River, Citico Creek, and the Green Cove Pond.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Thunder Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Thunder Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Thunder Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Thunder Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Thunder Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Thunder Rock Campground

    6. Thunder Rock Campground

    20 Reviews
    101 Photos
    150 Saves
    Reliance, Tennessee

    Overview

    Thunder Rock Campground is located 1.8 miles northwest of the Ocoee Whitewater Center, just behind TVA Ocoee Powerhouse Number 3. Nestled alongside the Ocoee River, this facility provides 37 regular campsites for popups and RVs less than 20 feet with no elctricity , ONLY site 9 is an electric site for less than 20 feet at 30 amp, and one group campsite. Thunder Rock is a popular destination for both whitewater and trail enthusiasts.

    Recreation

    Trailhead parking is available for the nearby Tanasi trail system, which includes approximately 30 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. This system can be reached via Thunder Rock Express, Dry Pond Lead, or the Rhododendron Trail. Thunder Rock also provides access to the Benton-McKaye Trail.

    Natural Features

    The Cherokee National Forest is located in eastern Tennessee and stretches from Chattanooga to Bristol along the North Carolina border. The 650,000-acre swath of land is Tennessee's only national forest. It lies in the heart of the Southern Appalachians and is home to more than 20,000 species of plants and animals, as well as many rivers, creeks and lakes.

    Nearby Attractions

    The nearby Ocoee River put-in and Ocoee Whitewater Center, home of the 1996 Olympic Canoe/Kayak-Slalom Competition, makes this an ideal location for rafters and kayakers alike.

    Charges & Cancellations

    All sites have a $18.00 cancellation and reservation fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground

    7. Fort Mountain State Park Campground

    59 Reviews
    376 Photos
    429 Saves
    Chatsworth, Georgia

    Fort Mountain State Park is a place of legends. Literally! Home to an mysterious, ancient, rock wall at the peak of a mountain, Fort Mountain’s associated legends include the construction of a Welsh military fort, a honeymoon destination for native newlyweds, and a relation to “moon-eyed people” of Cherokee folklore. Whatever the truth may be, there is no denying that this park’s unique features have made it one of the major draws within the Chattahoochee National Forest.

    Located just a short scenic drive off of Highway 52 near the Cohuatta Wilderness, the campground at Fort Mountain State Park hosts 70 campsites for tents and RVs. Campers can bring their paddles to take advantage of all 17 acres of Fort Mountain Lake, or take part in the local rental program for easier travels.

    While there is no need to leave the park to find adventure, many campers take a short drive east to a historic site featuring the Chief Vann House. This well-preserved structure was the first Cherokee brick residence and is often referred to as the “showplace” of the Cherokee Nation. Continue your travels to the peak of Fort Mountain where you can take a tour of a stone fire tower built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression. Enjoy panoramic views and marvel at the legendary beauty of Fort Mountain State Park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Parksville Lake RV Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Parksville Lake RV Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Parksville Lake RV Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Parksville Lake RV Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Parksville Lake RV Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Parksville Lake RV Campground

    8. Parksville Lake RV Campground

    14 Reviews
    44 Photos
    137 Saves
    Benton, Tennessee

    Overview

    Located near Parksville Lake, Parksville Lake RV Campground offers well-shaded and nicely spaced campsites accommodating larger RVs. Several sites offer the opportunity for two RVs to camp close together and several are located along a small stream.

    Recreation

    Parksville Lake RV Campground is central location for day trips to the many inviting outdoor recreation opportunities in the area. Visitors to nearby Parksville Lake will enjoy beaches for swimming and boat ramps for water access. The area boasts many miles of mountain bike and hiking trails. Whitewater rafting enthusiasts will want to check out the Ocoee Whitewater Center.

    Natural Features

    The Cherokee National Forest is located in eastern Tennessee and stretches from Chattanooga to Bristol along the North Carolina border. The 650,000-acre swath of land is Tennessee's only national forest. It lies in the heart of the Southern Appalachians and is home to more than 20,000 species of plants and animals, as well as many rivers, creeks and lakes.

    Nearby Attractions

    The campground is conveniently located near the Ocoee River and the Ocoee Whitewater Center (site of the 1996 Olympic Kayak events).

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater KOA

    9. Sweetwater KOA

    13 Reviews
    59 Photos
    40 Saves
    Madisonville, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Chester Frost Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Chester Frost Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Chester Frost Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Chester Frost Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Chester Frost Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Chester Frost Park
Showing results 1-10 of 435 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Etowah

Recent Reviews in Etowah

1267 Reviews of 435 Etowah Campgrounds


  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Talona Ridge RV Resort
    Nov. 19, 2024

    Talona Ridge RV Resort

    One of the Better RV Resorts Out There

    As our Brinkley G3500 is 13’ 8” high, we routed to miss a 13’ 7” bridge on a small portion of US-76 just off of US-411. Instead of taking the left turn onto US-76, we stayed on US-411 down to GA-136. We had followed the RV Life navigation, which routed us this way to avoid the low bridge. We were the first official check in for the Brinkley rally arriving around noon. We checked in and were escorted to pull through site H-48 with FHUs in the bottom Hawk level of this large campground (CG). The pull throughs in this part of the CG were plenty long enough for our 40’ toy hauler and F450 to include being able to put the patio down. The utilities are at the middle of the pad so you can adjust according to your needs. The water pressure was good at around 50 psi. From talking to other campers in this area, some had lower water pressure and took their regulators off. There are not a lot of mature trees so satellite was not a problem. We got 4 bars on Verizon and the CG WiFi was above average for a park of this size. We were near their nice sized dog park that has separate areas for large and small dogs. Their Welcome Center with a gift shop is very nice and they have super friendly customer service. There are a lot of amenities here such as pool(soon to be a second pool for kids), pickleball, propane, laundry, and curbside trash pickup. The owners of Talona Ridge continue to take inputs from RVers on how to improve the CG. There’s a plan to expand RV sites across the street primarily for smaller rigs. This was our second rally at this location and we would definitely come back for another rally or on our own.

  • Randall C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Magical Mountain Resorts, The Enchanted Forest
    Nov. 16, 2024

    Magical Mountain Resorts, The Enchanted Forest

    Lives up to its name!

    This place is truly magical. So much effort has been put into themed cabins, unique art work, and detail. Kids and adults can spend time in a fantasy world of their choice. Kids can explore the magical grounds, play in the large creek, and get to know the resident goats, pigs, miniature horse, etc..

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites
    Nov. 10, 2024

    Long Hungry Road Dispersed Campsites

    Great site, tricky to find

    The sign at the road looks like it was either taken down or blew away. The pin drop doesn’t take you to the turn in on google pr Apple Maps. If you’re coming from Robbinsville it’s on your right after the pin about 1/4 mile. Then at the fork in the gravel road take a right. But all in all it’s a great place. I stayed at 7 in a van. It had level parking and I could walk down to the bank to fish and have a fire.

  • Michele D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Chatuge Dispersed
    Nov. 1, 2024

    Lake Chatuge Dispersed

    Wrong coordinates

    The coordinates take you to Nottley Dam. We had to drive 37 minutes farther to Lake Chatuge and hopefully we find some campground since it is very dark at the moment. We ended up having to spend over $200 for a hotel. I'm going to delete my acct as other friends have similar issues with Dyrt

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground
    Nov. 1, 2024

    Fort Mountain State Park Campground

    Beautiful Fall destination

    We tent camped on Spot 27. Nice back in RV spot with water and electric. Bathhouse is close by. Gray water dump is across the road. Originally we booked Spot 60. That’s a pull through with little room for a tent. No cell service but that’s okay as we disconnected for a while. You can get service at the top of the park. Clean bathrooms with hot showers. Trails are nicely blazed with colors that match trail map. Georgia apple farms are a short, 20-30 minutes away.

  • Meaghan G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground
    Oct. 15, 2024

    Fort Mountain State Park Campground

    Backcountry site #4

    I had a wonderful time at backcountry site #4 this past Sunday - Monday. The hike to the site is downhill from the stone wall parking lot, so it was pretty easy to get to at only 1 mile. The site is private and pretty large. There were plenty of trees for hammocks and a few flat spots for small tents. A small creek flows through the site for easy water access (but I was told that it doesn’t flow all year).
    The best part of site #4 is that it’s about 0.2 miles from a beautiful west facing overlook where I enjoyed the sunset. I can’t recommend this site every .

  • Donny A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Howland's Hidout
    Oct. 15, 2024

    Howland's Hidout

    Nice backyard camping

    Easy to find, close to Fall Creek Falls, Power available, quiet spot except for the coyotes in the woods. Confused Roosters will wake you up at various times. Ear plugs help with the Roosters and coyotes. It's not a campground so don't expect a shower house or bathrooms. I would stay there again. Owner is an exceptional host.

  • Michael T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Fort Mountain State Park Campground

    A lot offered in a well kept site

    This is a great park with a lot to offer and more in the near vicinity. 

    Cell reception (T-Mobile) was non-existent in the site. However, there was reception at the trading post and possibly elsewhere. 

    They're installing Bear Boxes in tent sites back and front country (as I understood it) and are clearly paying attention to what people want and how to improve visitors experiences. 

    A lot of the sites are RV orientated. But the walk in tent sites are really close to the parking area. Also, nearby backcountry platforms and sites can be easily accessed. 

    If you want walking access to the trails, it's probably best to choose a site near the lake as that's where most trails are accessed from.

  • V
    Camper-submitted photo from Fooshee Pass Campground
    Sep. 13, 2024

    Fooshee Pass Campground

    Beautiful and well maintained!

    Ample space, gorgeous views of the lake, and super friendly staff. We stayed in space 19. It is sized for a smaller rig which was perfect for us. We got to watch fish jump and a crane fishing in the morning. Only caught small fish, but the kids had a blast swimming. The lake is shallow with a slow grade which was perfect for our young children. Everyone was friendly and respectful. The bathrooms were clean and it was a nice bonus to have a no-charge shower available for tent camping.

  • Angie B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fontana Village Resort and Campground
    Sep. 10, 2024

    Fontana Village Resort and Campground

    Favorite Vacation Spot

    We have stayed at the Campground for 15 years!  Love Beth who helps with Reservations. I really like the fact it is a very small campground, sitting back a long way off the main road.  Sites are spread out. Shower house easy access from all sites. Very few, if any kids when we go.  Having all the amenities of Fontana Village Resort is icing on the cake. I've already made Reservations for 2025.

  • Mary D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hornsby Hollow Campground
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Hornsby Hollow Campground

    Beautiful Sites!

    The campground was one of the most scenic I've been to. Some of the lakefront spots had their own access to the lake and plenty of trees. The camp host was amazing!

  • t
    Camper-submitted photo from The Road Less Traveled
    Sep. 1, 2024

    The Road Less Traveled

    Road I won’t travel again

    Let me start with the good. We had a beautiful view from across the very busy highway of some mountains. Campsites 25 and 26 were under some nice big oaks. The rest of the sites appear to be long term residents or under construction. Bad stuff please check out the numerous rules and if you have kids i would not recommend. We got reprimanded for the 6 yr old hanging on the teeter-ball. Which we know is not how its used but kids will be kids. Kinda felt like we were being watched for infractions 24/7. The electric was not working on our site but luckily we had a long extension cord to pull from a vacate site. Sure we broke the rules there :( Dump station was sloping in the wrong direction so not getting clean tank

    Overall we didn’t feel very welcome there and probably will not return

  • Sarah H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Conasauga Overflow Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Lake Conasauga Overflow Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest

    Long drive down gravel roads

    It took us about 1.5 hours to reach the campground from where the pavement ended. It gets rough in places, but a sedan can do it if it's dry. Once you finally reach the campground, it is nice. Nestled way back in the woods. No power or water hookups. A couple of water hydrates throughout the campground. No alcohol permitted. It is a wildlife management area. There is a host in the campground. Beautiful scenery!

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Cades Cove Campground

    Awesome time

    If you're looking for peace and quiet, then this is the place to be. Had numerous sightings of wildlife even in the campground. Note... Do not forget to remove the drip pan on the Blackstone!!!! Doing so just erritates the bears.

  • rhett T.
    Camper-submitted photo from KOA (Kampgrounds of America)
    Aug. 17, 2024

    KOA (Kampgrounds of America)

    Nice but crowded

    It was a nice campground. But it is set up to be too crowded. Not my kind of camping. But they stated was friendly. The restrooms weren’t so bad considering how many kids was there. Couldn’t let the dogs walk free so that sucked.

  • m
    Camper-submitted photo from The Crosseyed Cricket
    Aug. 17, 2024

    The Crosseyed Cricket

    I like it

    I prefer playing cricket for physical exercise rather than virtual games like Nulls Brawl. It's a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, especially in beautiful locations like The Crosseyed Cricket Campground in Tennessee.

  • Kaleb B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Backside Campground at Nantahala
    Aug. 9, 2024

    Backside Campground at Nantahala

    Backside is a fitting name

    This "campground" is two camp sites max being sold as like 6 "LARGE" sites. My brother and I were genuinely confused because it's essentially two group sites with individual sites being grouped together sharing a fireplace. The individual "sites" themselves are not level and barely big enough for a tent. My brother and I took one set of sites and the other person that showed up with small children took the other set of sites thankfully. I'm not trying to be crammed in with other people's small children while I'm camping. Was not expecting that to be a possibility. Any other people had shown up to the campground my brother and I would have just left. The porta potty is an absolute nightmare of spiders and insects. Don't bother opening it. No water supply

  • CaptMeow H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Gap
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Hickory Gap

    Cool spot!

    Five areas available free first come first serve by a little Creek bathrooms available sealed trash cans. Fire rings available sometimes firewood is available. Great little spot. once you entered, the campsite going towards the bathrooms is a waterfall.

  • American E.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ridgeway
    Jul. 12, 2024

    Ridgeway

    Campground Closed

    The campground road access continues to be closed as of July 10, 2024.



Guide to Etowah

Camping near Etowah, Tennessee, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Good hikes nearby," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Cades Cove Campground, you can enjoy sightings of bears and turkeys. One visitor said, "Had numerous sightings of wildlife even in the campground."
  • Fishing and Swimming: Harrison Bay State Park Campground is perfect for water activities. A reviewer noted, "There is plenty of lake access for boating, kayaking, and swimming."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Elkmont Campground. One review stated, "The bathrooms were adequate—sinks and toilets and cleaned daily."
  • Family-Friendly Environment: Vogel State Park Campground is noted for being great for families. A reviewer shared, "The kids had loads of fun playing by the little rivers."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness at Frozen Head State Park Campground. One camper said, "It's always quiet," making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.

What you should know:

  • Site Spacing: Campgrounds like Cades Cove Campground can be crowded. A visitor mentioned, "Most sites are close to each other; plan ahead to get a good site."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, such as Harrison Bay State Park Campground, may lack certain amenities. One camper noted, "The pool is closed (Covid?) - it looks abandoned because of financial issues."
  • Bear Awareness: At Fort Mountain State Park Campground, campers should be cautious. A review warned, "Watch for copperheads!!! There are lots at this park."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Campground: Look for family-friendly spots like Vogel State Park Campground. One parent said, "Beautiful park with lots of activities for kids."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground mentioned, "Lots of trails, waterfalls, and a great nature center."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring along items that make camping easier for kids. A reviewer at Frozen Head State Park Campground noted, "The restrooms are heated and immaculate."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: RVers should research site sizes at campgrounds like Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground. One visitor said, "The sites are tight. You're right on top of each other."
  • Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds with good facilities. A reviewer at Harrison Bay State Park Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms and showers get cleaned every afternoon."
  • Plan for Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. A camper at Cades Cove Campground advised, "Do not forget to remove the drip pan on the Blackstone!!!! Doing so just irritates the bears."

Camping near Etowah, Tennessee, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it's a great place to enjoy the outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions