Campsites near Johnson City provide access to the Cherokee National Forest with elevations ranging from 1,600 to over 3,000 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 78-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Campgrounds in this region typically offer both wooded and open sites, with many situated along the Nolichucky River or within reach of South Holston Lake.
What to do
Fly fishing opportunities: At Nolichucky Gorge Campground, visitors can catch rainbow trout in the river. One camper reported her husband "did catch a rainbow trout near group tent sites. Several small brookies near the history center."
Waterfront activities: The natural swimming area at Rock Creek Recreation Area provides a cool retreat during summer months. According to a visitor, "There is a mountain stream running through the campground that has been dammed up to make a swimming hole that is quite large... water is very chilly even in late July."
Historical exploration: Visit Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park for educational experiences about frontier life. One reviewer notes, "There is a museum on the property where you can learn lots about the history of this famous Tennessean for which the campsite and park were named."
Mountain hiking: The Appalachian Trail access points near Cardens Bluff Campground allow for day hikes or multi-day treks. A camper shared that it's "situated on a peninsula" with "great views and access to the lake for the outer campsites."
What campers like
River sounds: Many campers appreciate falling asleep to flowing water at Camp Stonefly. A visitor described, "We parked with van doors opened to the bubbling creek and had the natural white noise as a backdrop all night."
Spacious sites: At Roan Mountain State Park, the upper-numbered sites provide exceptional privacy. According to one review, "The upper numbered sites on the hillside are very private compared to most campgrounds."
Clean facilities: Bathhouses at several campgrounds receive high ratings for cleanliness. A Riverpark Campground visitor stated the bathhouse is "probably the cleanest bathroom you will ever find at a campground."
Natural surroundings: Campers enjoy the abundant wildlife and scenic mountain views. One visitor to Warriors' Path State Park described how "the forest was right up to our sides and we had lovely birdsong to awaken us every morning."
What you should know
Weather considerations: The area experiences significant temperature variations. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures ideal for camping, while summer can be humid with afternoon thunderstorms common.
Reservation timing: Book early for Warriors' Path State Park during peak season, especially for larger RVs. A camper advised to "be sure to read site descriptions and check the suggested trailer size - they seriously mean the max size!!"
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies widely across campgrounds. One visitor noted Cardens Bluff has no WiFi and limited cell reception, while at Warriors' Path "cell coverage varies from LTE to 5G all over the park."
Site selection: Many campgrounds have varying site layouts and sizes. At Rock Creek Recreation Area, "sites are levelish, semi-private, and wooded," but some campers note "not every spot is level."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation: Choose lakeside campsites during summer for water activities. At Little Oak Campground, "every site is right on the lake with amazing sunsets every night," making it "very kid-friendly."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led programs. Warriors' Path State Park provides "a full docket of activities, ranger-led hikes, games, crafts and wildlife lectures offered throughout the day."
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. Rock Creek Recreation Area has "a nice playground just down from camping area," while Roan Mountain State Park features areas where children can safely explore.
Weather preparedness: Pack for temperature swings, even in summer. A Cardens Bluff visitor recommended bringing "extra layers for the cool evenings, as temperatures can drop quickly after sunset."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many local campgrounds require leveling equipment. At Warriors' Path, one RVer noted "there are a lot of uneven campsites, so bring your leveling blocks."
Access routes: Some campground roads present challenges for larger rigs. A Woodsmoke Campground visitor mentioned their "large sites and private" full hookup spots, but others warn that access roads to some dog friendly campgrounds near Johnson City can be narrow.
Hookup availability: Check specific amenities before booking. At Roan Mountain State Park, an RVer appreciated that "water spigot was just a short walk away," though not all campgrounds offer full hookups at every site.
Site dimensions: Verify your rig will fit in your chosen site. A Warriors' Path camper shared, "My 5th wheel is 43' and I got it in to one of their 40' sites," while others noted many sites are "narrow and a little short" for larger trailers.
