Camping options near Harriman, Tennessee range from basic tent sites to rustic cabins and yurts across the Cumberland Plateau. The area sits at elevations between 800-3,000 feet, creating diverse microclimates that support camping year-round. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F while winter nights regularly drop below freezing, requiring proper gear for cold-weather camping.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Frozen Head State Park Campground offers multiple trails leading to scenic waterfalls within walking distance of campsites. "Amazing," notes Jay D., who calls it "one of the cleanest, nicest camps ever visited. Quiet, not too big and lots of surrounding attractions for hiking and fishing."
Mountain biking: Windrock Campground provides direct access to extensive mountain biking trails suitable for multiple skill levels. "Lots to do with the biking. Very close to town if needed," says Kacie B., who returns annually because "the serenity and peace we feel staying there makes us never want to leave."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife observation opportunities, particularly at dawn and dusk. "I have never seen more black bear," reports Ashley Y. about Cades Cove Campground, where visitors can watch wildlife "a very safe distance... about a football field away across a field."
Swimming: Natural swimming areas offer alternatives to pool facilities during summer months. Brittni F. recommends "laying and playing" in the water at Frozen Head State Park, noting that even when "the water was almost all dried up, there was still enough left behind our campsite."
What campers like
Clean facilities: The bathhouses at Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground receive positive mentions for cleanliness, though some note needed updates. Paige D. found the campground "has everything you need and nothing you don't. The prices are reasonable and the hiking trails within the park start right next to the campsites."
Quiet environment: Several campgrounds maintain quiet hours and noise restrictions. Liz A. appreciated how Frozen Head State Park allowed her daughter to "ride all around the campsite and have a blast" while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere for other campers.
Water features: Streams and small water features enhance many campsites. One camper at Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground notes: "Plenty of hikes that lead to wonderful waterfalls and great scenery. My favorite is the cable trail. If I recall it's not far from the campsite."
Yurt accommodations: For those seeking yurt camping near Harriman, Tennessee, several state parks offer these structures with solid flooring and canvas walls. Mary D. calls Cumberland Mountain State Park "one of our favorite places to camp" and recommends specific sites: "We have a little cargo conversion camper and love sites 25 and 101. Water and electric at both."
What you should know
Gate closing times: Several campgrounds lock entrance gates at night. Melanie G. advises about Frozen Head State Park: "The gates get locked so make sure you arrive early. We got locked out and couldn't contact anyone. Other than that first night, we had a great time."
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have limited or no cell coverage. Mary D. notes about Frozen Head: "There is no wifi and no cell phone reception."
Site reservations: During peak season (April-October), advance reservations are essential. At Awakening Adventures, Kevin P. mentions the small scale makes booking crucial: "A lot of space to explore and hike. River nearby and a lake not far from the camp. A very unique camp site."
Weather preparedness: The Cumberland Plateau experiences rapid weather changes. "We moved to Tub Springs which was amazing! Very windy but dry," reports Carissa D. about Frozen Head's backcountry sites, noting the importance of flexible camping plans.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment. Josh S. at Caney Creek RV Resort & Marina appreciates the "outdoor pool with a kids pool, playground, basketball, corn hole, horseshoe" and notes that "everything is well kept and very clean."
Educational opportunities: Historical sites near campgrounds provide learning experiences. Jessica L. recommends Frozen Head State Park for families wanting "to experience the beauty of East Tennessee without the crowds of the Smoky Mountains."
Level site selection: Request level sites when traveling with children. Laura D. describes Frozen Head's campsites as "clean and spacious with gravel pad. Two shepherds hooks for hanging lanterns and trash bags."
Wildlife safety: Area campgrounds require proper food storage. Laura D. advises: "Be advised, the last two years there's been baby copperhead snakes that hang around outside the bath house at night."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. Richard F. advises at Fall Creek Falls State Park: "Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out."
Hookup locations: RV sites often have unusual utility placement. Tanner H. notes at Caney Creek RV Resort: "At our particular sight the sewer was toward the front of the sight but I had enough hose to get to it."
Navigational challenges: Several campgrounds have tight turns and narrow roads. Andrea S. reports at Fall Creek Falls: "Every time a camper came in, people panicked fearing their cars were going to get hit because the road is so unbelievably narrow and inches close to tents and parking spaces."
Pull-through availability: Jeremy D. recommends Sweetwater KOA for larger rigs: "The pull through sections are very large to easily accommodate rig plus TV."
