RV camping near Signal Mountain, Tennessee offers access to mountain trails, fishing lakes, and whitewater activities. The region sits at the southern edge of the Cumberland Plateau with elevations up to 2,000 feet, creating temperature variations that can be 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby Chattanooga. Weather patterns change rapidly in this mountainous area, with afternoon thunderstorms common in summer months.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The Greeter Falls area provides access to multiple waterfall trails within a short drive of Signal Mountain. "We did the Benton Falls hike and it was lovely! 3 miles RT. Fall color was just peaking" reports a visitor at Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Whitewater activities: The Ocoee River offers accessible rafting and kayaking opportunities. A camper at Whitewater RV Park notes, "We spent the day hiking the mountain next to rv park. Then went kayaking down the river across the street."
Disc golf and zip lines: Some campgrounds offer on-site adventure activities. At Bigfoot Adventure RV park & Campground, visitors mention "Zip lining, small catch & release pond, biking, hiking, & cliff views available" making it suitable for families seeking multiple activities.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate well-spaced camping areas around Signal Mountain. "The sites are very close to each other, but I just stayed for the night! Quiet and near good food!" writes a visitor to Hawkins Pointe RV Park.
Shaded camping: Forest cover provides natural cooling during hot months. "The A&B loops are well spaced and mostly shaded with fairly level gravel pads. Bathhouse was clean and well lit," notes a Chilhowee Recreation Area visitor.
Creek-side spots: Water features enhance campsite appeal. At Parksville Lake RV Campground, "Several sites were closed in mid-September due to social distancing. The small loop is perfect for a family get away. Close Creek and hiking provided plenty of activity for little ones."
What you should know
Mountain driving challenges: RV operators should prepare for steep approaches. As one visitor to Chilhowee Recreation Area warns, "There are often oncoming vehicles who are driving too fast and not considering those of us in large vehicles."
Cell service variations: Coverage changes with elevation and provider. One camper notes: "In the B loop there is NO AT&T in spite of what this site says. You may get a weak signal on the other side, but it's spotty at best. There appeared to be a Verizon tower on the mountain, so that will probably work."
Water availability: Not all sites offer individual water hookups. At Chilhowee Recreation Area, "There are no water hookups at the sites, only power (30A). You'll need to fill your fresh water tanks before you set up."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Several campgrounds welcome pets with specific amenities. At Battlefield Campground & RV Park, "Pets allowed too so that was a plus!!" according to one camper who appreciated the pet policy.
On-site activities: Look for campgrounds with built-in entertainment. "Great weekend get away. Clean, great walking trails, fun zip lines," reports a visitor to Bigfoot Adventure RV park.
Primitive site considerations: When booking non-electric sites, check the specific amenities. One camper at Greeter Falls Campground advises, "Be sure to check the site measurements. Our only complaint was the site size & distance to our neighbor. We stayed at primitive site 1."
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Some campgrounds have challenging dump station approaches. A Chilhowee Recreation Area visitor notes, "There is only one dump station and it's on the other side of the campground. From the B loop, you have to traverse about a 120 degree switchback to get to it."
Electric options: Most rv sites near Signal Mountain, Tennessee offer electric hookups but with varied amperage. "The sites in Chilhowee have no water hookups at the sites, only power (30A)," which requires advance planning for water needs.
Site configurations: RV campsites vary significantly in layout. "Our site was probably the worst designed one. Really strange back-in in the shape of an L over a creek with the electric on the wrong side," reports a camper, highlighting the importance of researching specific site details before booking.
