Melton Hill Dam Campground sits just 10 miles southwest of Farragut, Tennessee on the shore of a TVA-controlled reservoir at 795 feet elevation. The terraced campground design features sites built on a sloping hillside that maximizes lake views while providing natural buffers between camping areas. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with summer maintaining higher pool levels ideal for water recreation.
What to do
Biking on closed loops: Cades Cove offers special vehicle-free days for cyclists. "What a great campground!! This is away from the craziness of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. On certain days they close off the loop of Cades Cove for bicycles to be able to ride. At the store near the campground they rent bikes for a reasonable rate," notes Jeremy H.
Hiking to waterfalls: Frozen Head State Park Campground features multiple waterfall trails within easy reach of campsites. "Lots to do with the hiking. Waterfalls were beautiful and everyone we talked to was super helpful and nice. Grounds are well maintained without taking away from the natural beauty," reports Brittni F.
Fishing from shore: Southlake RV Park offers dedicated fishing spots right from the tent camping area. "If you are wanting to fish the bank or even put in kayaks this spot is money. The tent sights are located right on a great fishing cove on Fort Loudon reserve," explains Nate H.
What campers like
Historic structures: Cades Cove Campground provides access to preserved buildings. "This is a very unique spot in the smokies. Make your reservations far in advance this is a destination!" advises Ashley Y. The area features multiple historical cabins and churches accessible via the main loop road.
Quiet spaces: Campers appreciate the relative seclusion at Abrams Creek Campground. "Very quiet area to camp by the water," notes Jennifer L. The small size creates an intimate setting where "it's cozy enough you want to go meet your camping neighbors," according to John H.
Clean facilities: Yarberry Campground maintains well-kept shower facilities. "Clean bathrooms and showers," confirms Sherry. Another camper notes that "Bath house we went to is clean and warm. All hosts are very nice and friendly."
What you should know
Seasonal changes: Soaring Eagle Campground tent sites vary with water levels. "We were in a pop-up camper and had a lakefront site, which was awesome, except for the highway noise... Will plan to return in spring. The main bathhouse was one of the best I've seen, but we had to drive to it, as it was the end of season and the lake side bathhouse was closed," explains Lori H.
Road noise: Some campgrounds near highways experience traffic sounds. "Super nice employees. Campsites very close together. We were very close to I 40 and the road noise was extremely loud...all day and all night," reports one camper at Soaring Eagle.
Reservation requirements: Abrams Creek requires advance planning. "Make sure you make reservations BEFORE stunning out there. Way if they beaten path and reservations can ONLY be made online. No cell service no internet for at least ten miles away from camp," warns Jay A.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing spots: Elkmont Campground offers excellent wildlife observation. "On a visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you quickly learn that you'll enjoy your visit a lot more if you are located close to what you want to see and do," shares Jean C. The campground sits near prime observation areas.
Water activities: Children enjoy the swimming areas at many lake campgrounds. "Yarberry Campground is a gated lakefront campground and day use area located on Tellico Lake. The day use area is nice, with a roped off swimming area, kayak rentals, picnic tables, a basketball court, etc," notes Lori H.
Off-road adventures: Windrock Campground offers specialized activities for active families. "Lots to do... Off roading, shooting range, mountain bike trails, atv rentals. Very close to town if needed," says Kacie B.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose upper sites for more privacy at Melton Hill. "Some sites do not have sewer but there is a dump station at the pull-out. The signage for the main dam road which also leads into the campground looks new and does not indicate the campground is on the road. Just 'Melville Dam, Shipping/Receiving'," advises Sara M.
Leveling needs: Many RV sites require adjustment. "The parking area is an asphalt slab and many have a slant to them and will require leveling. There are a mix of short-stay and longer stay sites. The picnic tables and grills for our area were up a set of stairs above the RV, the pads opposite were down steps from the RV," explains a Melton Hill visitor.
Dog-friendly campgrounds near Farragut: Beyond Melton Hill Dam, Southlake RV Park offers pet-friendly camping with shore access. "Nice place to camp!" reports Kelly R., while another camper mentions being able to bring pets to the waterfront for supervised water access.
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