Andersonville camping sites sit near Norris Lake at elevations between 1,000 and 1,500 feet in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The area experiences mild springs and falls with summer temperatures reaching the upper 80s, making water-based recreation popular during warmer months. Most campgrounds in the area remain open from March through November, though some facilities offer year-round camping options.
What to do
Hiking trails at Frozen Head: Explore over 50 miles of hiking paths at Frozen Head State Park Campground, ranging from easy to strenuous difficulty levels. "I've also finished the trip by hiking the loop back out by continuing on Dark Hollow to Big Valley Trail, to Ghost House Trail and back to Lake Trail (5.3 miles total). These sections of the trails are easy to moderate," shares Chelsea.
Water activities on Norris Lake: Fish, swim, or boat on Norris Lake directly from the shoreline at multiple campgrounds. "Very convenient to the lake but the campground is a little rough. Just changed ownership so there is hope," notes Travis W. about Powell Valley Resort & Marina, which offers pontoon rentals for exploring the lake.
Tent camping near historic sites: Camp near the historic Daisy Town ghost town at Elkmont Campground and explore abandoned vacation cabins. "Once you've set up camp, walk or drive down the road toward the Little River and Jakes Creek trails. Follow the signs for additional parking and you'll find yourself at the end of a road lined with assorted cottages and cabins that used to be vacation homes," explains Jean C.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the lakeside camping spots at Anderson County Park. "This specific spot was huge and next to a wooded area and nature walk," notes Mary D. The waterfront sites offer direct lake access for fishing and water activities.
Year-round camping options: Unlike seasonal operations, some campgrounds in the area remain open throughout winter months. "Other campgrounds in the area were closed, but this one is open year round. Bathrooms and showers remain open as well," explains Jason W. about his Thanksgiving weekend camping experience.
Clean facilities and helpful staff: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and friendly staff. At Clinton-Knoxville North KOA, Andrea F. notes, "It's very clean and the staff was nice. We got here after hours and they had everything we needed at the check in with our names, site number and directions to our site."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across Andersonville area campgrounds. At Frozen Head State Park, Mary D. reports, "There is no wifi and no cell phone reception," while Clinton KOA offers WiFi access.
Campground location considerations: The distance from major highways affects access time. Crystal C. mentions about Big Ridge State Park Campground, "Big Ridge State Park has nothing within 30 minutes and we are talking some winding roads. Enjoyable drive in but bring your food."
Backcountry camping challenges: Some backcountry sites require significant hiking effort. Lori H. warns about Big Ridge State Park's Sharps Station site: "This was a beast of a hike, both in and out. I plan to never do it again! It is extremely strenuous, with some serious elevation changes, very steep terrain, and overgrown brushy trails."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas for children: Multiple parks feature designated swimming sections. At Big Ridge State Park, Brooke M. shares that it's a "Great place to swim for the summer with the kids," though another camper noted goose droppings at the swimming area during their visit.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can observe various wildlife from safe distances. "This is a very unique spot in the smokies. I have never seen more black bear. It was a very safe distance we watched them about a football field away across a field," explains Ashley Y. about Cades Cove Campground.
Yurt camping options near Andersonville: For families seeking comfort beyond tent camping, Windrock Campground offers yurt accommodations. "Nice bathrooms. Great sites, cute cabins great location," notes Danielle N. Yurt camping in Andersonville, Tennessee provides the perfect middle ground between tent camping and cabin rentals.
Tips for RVers
Site leveling concerns: Many campgrounds feature uneven sites requiring preparation. At Powell Valley Resort & Marina, Travis W. cautions, "Sites are very unlevel," while at Big Ridge State Park, Kc K. shares a more positive experience: "Site 43. Big site, fairly flat. Just have levelers on one side."
Road access limitations: Some parks have tight turns and narrow roads that challenge larger rigs. Kc K. mentions, "Roads are a little narrow in the campground, made it a little hard to back trailer in- the front of the truck was the issue hitting rocks on the side of the road."
Hookup availability: Water and electric hookups vary across campgrounds. Clinton KOA provides full hookups including sewer connections, while other campgrounds offer more limited services. Some Andersonville yurt camping options include partial hookups for convenience.
