Cabins near Jonesborough, Tennessee range from primitive shelters to modern accommodations with private bathrooms. Located in the northeastern corner of Tennessee at approximately 1,700 feet elevation, the area experiences all four seasons with fall colors peaking in late October. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, making heated cabin options essential from November through March.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Roan Mountain State Park Campground, the Doe River provides fly fishing access throughout the campground. "Husband did catch a rainbow trout near group tent sites. Several small brookies near the history center," notes Tracy D. The river access points are well-maintained and easily accessible from cabin areas.
Hiking trails: Many cabin sites offer direct trail access for day hikes. "There are a lot of beautiful hikes in the area," explains Mary D. from Roan Mountain. Cabin guests at Spacious Skies Bear Den can access "a nice hiking trail up the mountain" and "one of the hiking trails leads to a waterfall," according to Emily B.
Water recreation: During summer months, several campgrounds offer swimming and tubing options. Nolichucky Gorge Campground provides water access with "a little path you can take a tube up and float back down. They had a lily pad for general use and a little pond if you wanted something contained," describes Kara P.
What campers like
Riverside locations: Cabins at Riverpark Campground provide front-row views of the Nolichucky. "Its not a huge place which adds to the allure. The campground is located on an exciting section of the Nolichucky River about 10 minutes from Erwin, TN. During our stay we enjoyed watching kayakers, rafters, and swimmers take on the river," writes Scott T.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness is consistently mentioned as a standout feature. At Baileyton KOA Holiday, visitors appreciate the "immaculate facilities" with Kevin O. noting they "can't say enough about this place." Kevin R. simply states it's "hands down the best KOA we've camped."
Proximity to attractions: Most cabin locations provide easy access to regional attractions. "Close to an apple orchid, which is so cool to visit (they're dog friendly) and not too far of a drive from the Linville Falls," writes Emily B. about Bear Den. Being "right on the Parkway was awesome and provided some great driving and hiking close by," according to Charles S.
What you should know
Reservation processes vary: Each cabin provider has different reservation systems and requirements. At USA Raft Adventure Resort, "their reservation system leaves a lot to be desired, but it is a very layed back and enjoyable stay," explains Shelly S. Private campgrounds typically require deposits while state park cabins book through Tennessee's central reservation system.
Seasonal availability: Winter access may be limited at higher elevations. Roan Mountain cabins remain open year-round but require winter preparation. Nolichucky Gorge notes that "water levels are perfect for floating around and playing in the river" during summer, but conditions change seasonally.
Privacy differences: Cabin spacing varies significantly between locations. Bristol-Kingsport KOA offers "serene beauty of this place situated well away from traffic in a bucolic setting," according to Susan E., while Shelly S. notes that at USA Raft "they sorta stick people all over the place when their busy."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select cabin locations with dedicated play areas for children. At Bear Den Family Campground, "there are a few playgrounds and a small pond to go swimming and fishing in," according to Timothy H. Charles S. recommends site "C13 which was right across from the large playground" allowing parents to "keep an eye on her while we worked/played at the site."
Swimming options: During summer, cabin rentals near water features provide natural swimming opportunities. Little Oak Campground offers lakeside cabins with "super easy access to the water on all sides," notes Nathan F. Many families appreciate the controlled swimming environments available at KOA locations with pools.
Evening quiet: Most cabin areas enforce quiet hours after dark. Bear Den "quiets down at sunset" according to Kenneth K., making it ideal for families with younger children. Bringing extra lighting for cabin areas is recommended as "it was dark by 6:30pm" during fall and winter stays.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When booking cabin stays after RV travel, consider accessibility factors. At Riverpark Campground, "the top part of the campground is where you will find the camp store" while "in the lower section of the campground there are pull through sites, back in sites and of course the wonderful river front sites," explains Gregg G.
Off-season advantages: RVers recommend cabin rentals during shoulder seasons. Sarah C. reports that at Roan Mountain, "there was only one other couple camping when we arrived but I feel like this place wouldn't feel busy even if it was thanks to all the trees!" Reduced rates are often available November through March.
Utility considerations: For those transitioning between RV and cabin camping, check utility differences. Riverpark cabin sites include "full hookups including premium cable television" according to reviews, while Big Oak Family Farm provides only basic amenities with their "A-frame cabin that comes with 5-gallon refillable solar heated water bag."
