Panther Creek State Park Campground spans 1,400 acres at elevations between 1,100 and 1,450 feet, situated on the shores of Cherokee Lake near Morristown. The campground features 50 wooded sites with varying terrain that creates natural spacing between campsites. Overnight temperatures typically drop 10-15 degrees below daytime highs, creating comfortable sleeping conditions even during summer months when humidity can reach 75%.
What to do
Creek fishing access: Cast a line in the well-stocked waters at Cades Cove Campground, where campers report consistent catches in nearby streams. "The campground has 50 full-hookup sites. A pavilion, shower house. The Park has tennis courts, a swimming pool, 60 miles of trails and a boat ramp for Cherokee Lake," notes Jim L.
Mountain biking trails: Explore the extensive trail network at Panther Creek State Park Campground with trails designated for various skill levels. "Very nice bathrooms. The sites aren't the most private we've ever stayed at, but the mountain biking was so much fun we didn't care! Hiking and biking was an A+," says Penny M.
Elk viewing opportunities: Visit Cataloochee Campground during early morning hours for prime wildlife viewing. "Oh, what a wonderful place to camp! A small campground, and u need reservations, early, to see the Elk rutting in early October. We spent 5 nights and watched them early am and afternoons every day," writes Jodie K.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Many visitors appreciate waterfront sites at Big Creek Campground, which features a peaceful tent-only environment. "Camp was great. Pads were large and flat and well kept. Bathrooms were mostly clean and everything worked. Mature trees throughout campgrounds. Minimal privacy but sites were not on top of each other. Nice path to walk and explore along stream which is very beautiful," confirms Nick.
Proximity to multiple trail systems: Horse enthusiasts value easy access to varied terrain within short distances. "Panther Creek SP was an unexpected find outside of Knoxville, TN, in Morristown. This is a small State Park but it offers a lot to do recreation wise. The weekend we stayed there was a youth mountain bike event and cross country running going on. There's also horseback trails," shares Shelly S.
Historic structures: The area contains preserved buildings accessible from multiple campgrounds. "There are historical homesteads, a school, churches and cemetery to take you back in time. Trails by creeks there to hike. Bears, turkeys, deer and the Elk," notes Jodie K. about the Cataloochee Valley area.
What you should know
Limited phone service: Connectivity varies significantly between horse campgrounds near Jefferson City, Tennessee. "No cell service for Verizon and none for many miles on the drive to the site," reports Carol B. about Cades Cove Group Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping areas require advance booking, particularly during peak seasons. "This group camp grounds were the best! privacy tent camping, near the stream and great hiking trails. close to the AT. going back!" mentions Cindy A. about Big Creek's group sites.
Tick prevention essentials: The region has significant tick populations during warmer months. "Though if you come in the summer look out for ticks. Panther Creek is notorious for ticks. I pulled 6 off of me in one day," warns Dusty W.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Families appreciate the recreational facilities at multiple campgrounds. "Panther creek has great hiking trails, pool, playground fire pits and so much more! The campground tends to be quiet and relaxed and has full hookups on some of the sites along with a nice little store and the dump station," shares Bill P.
Educational wildlife viewing: Structured nature programming enhances family experiences. "What a great campground for families to spend time at. For a lesser known state park, they have a lot of amenities. Playgrounds, hiking, horseback trails, mountain bike trails, tennis courts, disc golf, baseball field, volleyball, lake access, swimming pool. Lots of wildlife here, even a rescued barred owl to view near the gift shop," describes Dusty W.
Bike rental opportunities: Townsend Great Smokies KOA offers convenient access to cycling routes for all ages. "The staff is extremely accommodating and very helpful. The bathrooms/showers were clean and the campground was well laid out. Awesome time to be in the smokies even if it is close to home for us," reports Cory A.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose sites carefully when bringing horses to campgrounds near Jefferson City. "Large RV sites are available but check the internet under TN State Parks for available sites. The Campground sits away from the pool and Cherokee Lake but a short drive to the boat ramp allowed for some fun fishing," suggests Diane H.
Water access logistics: Plan for water sources when camping with horses. "Spacious and on the river. Close to the biking trails and Cades cove. Spots are clean, fire pits are great, well maintained pavers patio and nicely landscaped," notes Katie C. about facilities at Townsend Great Smokies KOA.
Level site availability: Some equestrian camping areas require leveling equipment. "The sites arnt very large so check the internet under TN State Parks for available sites. The Campground sits away from the pool and Cherokee Lake but a short drive to the boat ramp allowed for some fun fishing. Lots of hiking trails...but 'easy' trail wasn't really easy," warns Diane H.
