Best Campgrounds near Jonesborough, TN

Jonesborough, Tennessee provides a gateway to diverse camping experiences in the eastern Tennessee mountains and river valleys. The area includes both established campgrounds and natural settings, with options ranging from tent-only sites to full-hookup RV facilities. Riverpark Campground in Jonesborough offers year-round camping with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals along the water. Within driving distance, Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground and Nolichucky Gorge Campground provide additional options for mixed-use camping with varied amenities and natural settings.

Roads throughout the region are generally well-maintained, though some campgrounds require navigation through winding mountain roads. Most developed sites offer water and electric hookups, with several providing full sewer connections for RVs. Several campgrounds in the area feature bathroom facilities and showers, though quality varies by location. A visitor noted, "The campground is in a good area with restaurants, grocery stores and anything you might need close by," highlighting the accessible nature of many sites despite their natural settings. The camping season generally runs year-round in lower elevations, though some locations have limited winter facilities or seasonal closures.

The Nolichucky River serves as a focal point for many camping experiences in the area, with multiple campgrounds situated along its banks. Waterfront sites are particularly popular and tend to book quickly during summer months. Campers report enjoying the mountain views and river access that characterize many of the region's camping areas. A camper described one riverside location as "peaceful and dark," noting the easy "access to the Appalachian Trail." Most campgrounds near Jonesborough balance natural surroundings with proximity to amenities, making them suitable for both weekend getaways and longer stays. Many sites accommodate both tent and RV camping with designated areas for each, though tent campers should note that some tent pads may be uneven due to the region's varied terrain.

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Best Camping Sites Near Jonesborough, Tennessee (274)

    1. Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Chuckey, TN
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 257-2167

    $14 - $32 / night

    "Large swimming pool, TONS of historical events around, hiking & river walks. Super clean and new bath houses as well. Honors Tennessee state discounts. If possible make reservations online."

    "The drive in follows the TN “Sunnyside Early Country Trail” through picturesque farmland with mountains in the near distance. Do your shopping before arrival, there’s nothing close to the park."

    2. Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground — Warriors' Path State Park

    26 Reviews
    Kingsport, TN
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 867-2757

    "We had a change of plans and made reservations at Warrior Path State Park on a whim - and are VERY glad we did."

    "This beautiful 970 acre Tennessee State Park is located on the shores of the 900 acre Patrick Henry Reservoir on the Holston River in Sullivan County."

    3. Roan Mountain State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Roan Mountain, TN
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 547-3906

    $14 - $54 / night

    "It is located in Roan Mountain Tennessee. The campground has clean bathhouses with hot showers."

    "Fire pits you had to walk up to but were away from tents, which I liked. Bathhouse was clean, well lit, pretty warm showers. Campground was very clean and has a lot of amenities."

    4. Rock Creek Recreation Area

    10 Reviews
    Erwin, TN
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 638-4109

    $20 - $50 / night

    "There isn’t too much of any one activity in/near the campground but lots more in the greater area. Cons: just plan to drive to another area if you’re staying for a few days (not really a con though)."

    "Convenient location in the Cherokee National Forest that is close to the Appalachian Trail and the Nolichucky River. Campground is popular with families and busy on weekends."

    5. Nolichucky Gorge Campground

    12 Reviews
    Erwin, TN
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 743-8876

    "Nolichucky Gorge is right next to USA Raft, same road, same entrance to the left. Veteran owned and well maintained. The staff is friendly and professional. River view sites, other sites and cabins."

    "This is a great spot located right next to USA Raft. There are a handful of tent only riverside camping spots with RV sites set back from the river."

    6. Riverpark Campground

    4 Reviews
    Erwin, TN
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 753-5359

    $51 - $73 / night

    "The riverfront spaces are amazing and just inches away from the Nolichucky River. If you love to fish or kayak this is a great location.

    The bathhouses are super clean."

    "Riverpark is a privately owned campground situated at the classic Big Rocks rapid on the Nolichucky river. "

    7. Katy Branch

    4 Reviews
    Erwin, TN
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 638-4109

    $75 / night

    "Very close to many trails. Clean showers and bathrooms. Loved it."

    "Came to stay at this campground because we wanted to do some hiking nearby that we haven't done in FOREVER!"

    8. Woodsmoke Campground

    4 Reviews
    Unicoi, TN
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 743-2116

    9. Cardens Bluff Campground

    17 Reviews
    Hampton, TN
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 735-1500

    $12 / night

    "Situated on a peninsula, Cardens Bluff has great views and access to the lake for the outer campsites."

    "Booked site 13 online for the last weekend before the season ended in October 2021, but the hosts caught us at check-in and moved us to site 32, which was right next to the water."

    10. Baileyton KOA Holiday

    15 Reviews
    Ducktown, TN
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 234-4992

    "Conveniently located close to highway 81 and town!"

    "Even though it's very close to the interstate, it was very quiet. We had a full hook up site, relatively level. It had a picnic table and fire ring."

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Recent Reviews near Jonesborough, TN

1234 Reviews of 274 Jonesborough Campgrounds


  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Upper Creek, Pisgah National Forest NC

    Good spot!

    Spent two nights here at a site right next to the creek, which was awesome listening to the running water as you fall asleep. Easy to get to, just a forest service road. A 4x4 makes it easy but there were minivans and junkyard beaters driving by. There are multiple sites along the service road and not too close to each other.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Old NC 105 - Dispersed Camping

    Great spot!

    This is a great spot along a mountain ridge. The dirt road goes for about 13 miles. Would recommend a 4x4, but I’ve seen all kinds of vehicles travel the entire road from minivans to Honda accords. There are plenty of spots to choose from. Some have great views of the valley and table top mountain and others are just nooks in the woods. The sites are pretty spread out but there are a few within shouting distance (which could be annoying if the site next to you decides to bring a battery powered Sawzall to cut firewood at 2am). Some sites are right off of the road which could get annoying from all the traffic of people going to the hiking trails nearby. And there are spots tucked away a bit off of the road where you really don’t notice trucks and cars driving by. Awesome place for a weekend getaway! Definitely going to visit again.

    P.S. only 4 stars because there are only about 3-5 sites with a great view!

  • xGYABx L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

    Great Getaway and stay

    We spent 1 night out here on a Saturday Night it is very secluded away from everything only downside was had 2 drive at least 10 miles 2 get cell service and the site is close 2 the road so we can hear a lot of traffic

  • Joel R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Baileyton KOA Holiday

    Nice overnight stop

    We are headed from Atlanta to Fredericksburg VA for a wedding. This is a very nice place for an overnight stop, probably one of the nicest for a KOA. Very clean and tidy campground. Mostly level, gravel sites. But some grass between sites! Some shade. Full hookups. Clean bathroom & shower. Pool, playground, driving range, big water slide. The internet is VERY slow. Also lots of road noise from I-81. Gift shop & convenient store in office. We’ve taken our travel trailer to 48 states, and have found KOAs generally convenient, but not much more. This place is definitely above average

  • Robert B.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Black Mountain Campground - CLOSED INDEFINITELY

    FR472 & Black Mountain Campground Closed

    FR 472 is closed at the Golf Course and there are hefty fines if you are caught walking beyond the gate.  Black Mountain Campground was destroyed by flooding caused by Hurricane Helene.  The bridge across the S. Toe River was broken and washed out.  The water system is also destroyed as well as the road network in the campground.  There have been no announcements by the Forest Service about plans to repair the facility and, after a year, my guess is that there never will be.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Around Pond RV Park

    Very nice stop over campground

    Stayed for one night as a stop over on our trip home. Easiest check in we have ever had. Pulled up to the staging area near the office and didn’t even have to get out of the truck. Guy came up on a golf cart and confirmed my name. Took us right to our spot which was a full hook up pull through. Site was gravel and completely level. A lot of full time campers here but that doesn’t bother us at all. Nice little pond to walk the dogs around or just sit and relax. There is no store or pool but we never use those anyway. There is a laundry on site and a good size area with grills and picnic tables to use if you want. Sure it’s not a KOA with all the amenities but for a stop over or even a few day stay it’s fine. And ONLY $39 a night ! Btw KOA right down the road wouldn’t accept our reservation because they require a 2 night minimum.

  • Josh G.
    Aug. 8, 2025

    Rock Creek Recreation Area

    Tall trees, nice views and cool temps.

    We stayed in campsite #31. It's more than partially shaded. Cellular reception is fair. The sight is level. It was hard for me to back into with a 21' bumper pull. There is a campsite marker directly in front of the driveway that obstructs the backing angle. The temperature is cooler than in Erwin. Water hookups are scarce, there are three per loop. The camp host and rangers were very helpful and nice.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2025

    Rock Creek Recreation Area

    Nice family campgroung

    Convenient location in the Cherokee National Forest that is close to the Appalachian Trail and the Nolichucky River. Campground is popular with families and busy on weekends. Sites are levelish, semi-private, and wooded. Loop B has power poles at each site (didn't check the other loops) and a nice bathhouse. Host was particularly helpful.

  • Cassondra P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Mountain River Family Campground

    Beautiful clean campground

    We absolutely loved our stay here! This campground was destroyed by Hurricane Helene in 2024 and they have already built back a beautiful fully functioning campground

    The sites are so clean with flowers planted around electric and water boxes, easy to access sites

    I loved sitting along riverbanks having fire, reading my book while family fished

    Owners were so nice and welcoming, gave us directions to access falls/overlooks

    If we are ever in the area again we Will definitely be back!


Guide to Jonesborough

Camping near Jonesborough, Tennessee, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at Hot Springs Campground mentioned, "Verizon signal very poor and the campground WiFi was borderline unusable."
  • Crowded on Weekends: Expect busier conditions during weekends. One visitor at Asheville East KOA noted, "It was comfortable during the weekdays, but started to get crowded during the weekend."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife interactions, especially at campgrounds like Cataloochee Campground. One camper shared, "This year’s trip was awesome... we were run out of our site by pushy elk."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly activities. At Lake Powhatan, one reviewer said, "The best thing about Lake Powhatan is the nice hike around the lake and the fun little lake beach."
  • Space to Play: Choose campgrounds with ample space for kids to roam. A family at Bear Den Family Campground enjoyed, "Kids loved the playground and there were a lot of other kids to make friends with."
  • Clean Facilities: Ensure the campground has clean restrooms and showers. A camper at Hickory Ridge Campground remarked, "The bathrooms were clean and easily accessible."

Tips from RVers:

  • Big Rig Friendly: Look for campgrounds that accommodate larger RVs. Asheville East KOA is noted for being "big rig friendly," making it easier for larger vehicles to navigate.
  • Space for Parking: Ensure there's enough room for parking and maneuvering. A reviewer at Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground mentioned, "The rock aggregate is fairly fresh and clean, so there is no issue with potholes or dirt when it rains."
  • Check for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups and dump stations. Campers at Roan Mountain State Park Campground appreciated the "clean and modern restrooms" and other amenities available.

Camping around Jonesborough, Tennessee, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just enjoying nature, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near Jonesborough, TN?

Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground offers beautiful views of the Nolichucky River, pull-through spaces for various camper sizes, clean bath houses, and historical attractions. Little Oak Campground is another excellent option about an hour from Jonesborough, providing a secluded retreat with a peaceful atmosphere. For those seeking riverside camping, Warriors' Path State Park features sites positioned on a ridge surrounded by Fort Patrick Henry Lake with ample space for RVs. All these campgrounds provide a range of amenities while offering a quintessential East Tennessee camping experience.

Are there RV rentals available in Jonesborough, TN?

While Jonesborough itself has limited RV rental options, several nearby campgrounds work with rental services or offer on-site rental units. Grandfather Campground provides cabin rentals as an alternative to RVs, with convenient access to local attractions. Honey Bear Campground is another option with easy access that accommodates RVs. For dedicated RV rentals, check with regional providers in Johnson City or Kingsport who deliver to campgrounds in the Jonesborough area. Many campers find it more convenient to rent from larger markets like Knoxville or Asheville and drive to their preferred Jonesborough-area campground.

Is there a KOA campground in Jonesborough, Tennessee?

There is no KOA campground directly in Jonesborough, Tennessee. The closest KOA options would be in neighboring areas such as the Kingsport/Bristol KOA or the Cherokee/Great Smokies KOA. For Jonesborough visitors wanting campgrounds with similar amenities to KOA (such as full hookups, bathhouses, and family activities), Riverpark Campground offers comparable services. Alternatively, Woodsmoke Campground near Unicoi provides drive-in access with reservable sites, water, toilets, and big-rig-friendly spaces similar to what you might expect at a KOA facility.

Where can I find tent camping options around Jonesborough?

Fox Fire Riverside Campground offers tent sites right by the river where you can enjoy the soothing sounds of flowing water. Their riverside sites (like 14 and 15) provide an immersive natural experience in the Smoky Mountains region. Nolichucky Gorge Campground is another option located just off I-26 near Erwin, offering a quiet setting on the Nolichucky River. For tent campers seeking more primitive experiences, Rock Creek Recreation Area near Greeneville provides walk-in tent sites with basic amenities. Most of these campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons.

Are there natural swimming areas near Jonesborough campgrounds?

Yes, there are several natural swimming options near Jonesborough campgrounds. Warriors' Path State Park offers swimming access in Fort Patrick Henry Lake with designated beach areas. Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area, though a bit further out, features beautiful swimming holes along the South Toe River with spots to skip rocks and enjoy the water. The Nolichucky River provides swimming opportunities at various access points near campgrounds like Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park. For a more developed swimming experience, Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park also offers a large swimming pool. Always check current conditions as water levels and safety can vary seasonally.