Camping near Graysville, Tennessee offers access to numerous waterfront sites on Chickamauga Lake and mountain terrain with elevations ranging from 700 to 2,000 feet. The region experiences moderate rainfall of 50-60 inches annually, creating lush forest conditions. Campers find both state park facilities and private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius of Graysville.
What to do
Hiking trails with elevation challenges: At Laurel Snow — Cumberland Trail, trails lead to multiple waterfalls with varying difficulty levels. "There are a couple of scattered campsites within this wilderness. One being very close to a waterfall. My favorite is the cable trail," notes Tyler J. The trails require preparation as they "can be hard to follow at a couple of points," according to Joshua C., who recommends "bringing an offline map of the trail."
Waterfall exploration: Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground features multiple waterfall hikes with swimming options. "We could spend weeks here and never get bored," says one camper who visited both spring and summer. "Make sure you do three things while you're there: hike to the bottom of the big waterfall (Fall Creek Falls), swim in the cascades next to the nature center, and stand on the edge of the bluff at Buzzard's Roost," recommends Myke C.
Water activities: Several campsites near Graysville offer direct water access. "We brought floaties and just hung out in the water during the afternoon to escape the hot weather," shares a visitor at Skull Island. The lake access allows for fishing, kayaking, swimming, and boating at multiple locations around Chickamauga Lake.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Skull Island provides waterside sites where campers can wake up to lake views. "Nothing like waking up to see the beautiful water all around you," writes Edna. The island setting creates a unique camping environment with water on all sides, though sites fill quickly during summer months.
Privacy levels: Harrison Bay State Park Campground offers varied loops with different privacy levels. "Loop A is an RV loop with very little shade... Loop B is an RV loop with more shade on the sites on the northern end and more sun on the southern... Loop C is the last RV loop, also with a lot of shade... Loop D is the tent-only loop; this loop is very shaded." The northern end of Loop D has "clear waterfront views" with sites 15-19 having "mostly unobstructed water views."
Clean facilities: "The campground was clean and the people working were very friendly," notes one camper about Chattanooga North-Cleveland KOA. Another camper at Chester Frost Park appreciated the "big swimming area" despite noting that "bath houses need work." Modern bathroom facilities vary significantly between campgrounds.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Chester Frost Park operates from April 1 to October 30, requiring advance planning. During summer, "it's a popular spot for locals to come swim in the lake as well, so bring bathing suits and expect a lot of company," notes a Harrison Bay camper. Fall brings colorful foliage while spring offers moderate temperatures and flowing waterfalls.
Wildlife awareness: Multiple campgrounds report active wildlife. "Kids loved camping here - deer will come up to your camp just keep an eye on your food coolers raccoons will get them," warns Constance about Harrison Bay. Another camper notes, "The raccoons are relentless - don't leave any food out and be sure you have good strong storage containers."
Campsite selection strategy: Researching specific sites proves important for enjoyment. At Harrison Bay, "Good sites are rare (space and views) #research. Campgrounds A, B and C are tight, limited space. Campground D is tent only - preferred for a camping experience." Arriving early for first-come, first-served sites helps secure better locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. "Harrison Bay is close to the playgrounds and picnic pavilions," notes one reviewer. Chester Frost Park provides "a man-made beach with a playground and loads of camping lots next to the river!" according to Haley H., making it "definitely somewhere you wanna bring your kids they would love it!"
Swimming options: Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground offers varied water recreation. "Make sure you do three things while you're there: hike to the bottom of the big waterfall (Fall Creek Falls), swim in the cascades next to the nature center," recommends a visitor. Fall Creek Falls even has "an olympic pool with diving boards and a snack shack for the kiddos."
Family-friendly trails: When camping with children, select appropriate hiking routes. "Modern bathhouses located in each camping area, swimming pool, golf course and restaurant make roughing it easier for those who need more comfort while camping," explains Sandra V. about Fall Creek Falls, adding that "for those who are adventurous there are many hiking trails at all levels of difficulty."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require equipment for leveling. At Cloudland Canyon, campers should "pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out." Another camper at Harrison Bay found that "some [sites] are not as level" while a visitor to Chester Frost Park recommends checking site descriptions before booking.
RV loop selection: Chattanooga North-Cleveland KOA provides specific RV amenities. "The sites are very close together so there is not much room to move around or have pets outside," notes Chris Y. Another camper found that "spots are easy to get in and out of. Although ours was not very level at all." Steve L. commented, "What a beautiful state park with many outdoor activities and trails. I stayed in campground A, sites were for the most part level and spacious, easy hookup."
