RV campgrounds near Hampton, Tennessee sit at elevations between 1,600-2,000 feet in the northeastern Appalachian foothills. Many facilities require navigation along winding mountain roads with 5-8% grades before reaching campsites. Winter temperatures typically drop to 20-30°F overnight from November through March, with several campgrounds maintaining year-round operations despite seasonal challenges.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Multiple campgrounds border stocked mountain streams with native and stocked trout. At Mountain Stream RV Park, one visitor noted, "Brody caught his first trout, it is a catch and release creek," while another guest enjoyed "sitting in the creek in my camp chair."
Hiking to waterfalls: The region offers multiple waterfall access points within 30-60 minutes of most campgrounds. A reviewer at Linville Falls Campground recommended, "We recommend the hike to Crabtree Falls!" while another visitor mentioned the "well marked trail's" leading to the falls.
Virginia Creeper Trail: This popular 34-mile rail-trail provides an accessible cycling route with shuttle services available. A camper at Laurel Creek RV Park appreciated the "easy access right to the shuttle companies for the Creeper Trail" and mentioned the campground's location "directly on the Creeper."
What campers like
Mountain creek soundscapes: The constant sound of running water provides natural white noise at streamside sites. A Mountain Stream RV Park guest shared, "The rushing stream was the perfect white noise for a restful night," while another mentioned, "The sound of the stream was so peaceful and relaxing."
Community gatherings: Some campgrounds organize regular social events to build community. One visitor at Mountain Stream RV Park mentioned, "Each Saturday evening, Kevin serves up his special home cooked bar-b-que under the shelter at no additional cost, and many campers bring sides to share."
Private dog areas: Several parks maintain dedicated pet spaces. A reviewer noted Mountain Stream RV Park "has a nice fenced in dog park, too (it even has a nice dog wash station!)" allowing pets to exercise off-leash safely within boundaries.
What you should know
Site spacing considerations: Many mountain campgrounds feature close quarters between sites. One Linville Falls Campground reviewer cautioned, "The spaces are close together and many of them are not shaded very well," while a Mountain Stream camper noted "the sites are very close together."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly throughout the region. A Mountain Stream visitor explained, "Cell service is almost non-existent, but you can use the wifi for calls if necessary," indicating the importance of alternative communication options.
Bathroom facilities vary: Some campgrounds prioritize bathroom upgrades while others maintain basic facilities. A Three Peaks RV Resort guest appreciated the "huge, private shower rooms (so clean!)" while Laurel Creek RV Park operates with "no bathrooms" according to a reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas. Three Peaks RV Resort features "the kids' playground" according to one visitor, while Mountain Stream RV Park added "an updated basic playground set for the kids."
Central gathering spaces: Look for campgrounds with communal areas for family activities. Mountain Stream offers a "nice lawn courtyard for games" while Three Peaks will soon have "a nice swimming pool" according to a reviewer.
Nearby attractions: The region offers family-friendly activities beyond campgrounds. A Three Peaks visitor noted families can "take a mountain hike, go mining for your own gems (real gems!), drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, go tubing in the nearby Toe River."
Tips from RVers
Single-site options: Butler TN RV offers a unique private camping experience with "full hookups, including 30&50 amp electric, sewer, water and wireless WiFi" in a setting with "easy paved road access with gravel driveway."
Site leveling: Many mountain campgrounds require minimal leveling adjustments. A reviewer at Grandview Ranch RV Park appreciated that the "spot was level with full hookups" providing a hassle-free setup experience.
Seasonal access: While many campgrounds operate year-round, weather impacts accessibility. Mountain Stream RV Park operates from "April 1 to November 30," avoiding the most challenging winter weather periods when road conditions can become problematic.