Several campgrounds near Kingsport, Tennessee cluster along the South Fork Holston River watershed at elevations between 1,200 and 1,600 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with mild springs, warm summers averaging 85°F, and winter lows occasionally dipping below freezing. Most campgrounds in the area operate year-round, with some limiting water services during winter months.
What to do
Fishing access: At Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground, campers can fish directly from their creekside sites when water levels permit. "We wished we could stay longer! Great owners—so hospitable! Free firewood and even had metal rings for a fire. Across the bridge is a paved walking trail that follows the creek," reports camper Twila B.
Community recreation: Leeman Field Park provides multiple amenities beyond camping. "Neighboring Leeman Field park has multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, swimming pool (Admission to the pool is included in campground fees), tennis courts, and disc golf course. There is a gorgeous walking and biking trail beginning at Leeman Field that winds along the river leading to a local grocery store and restaurants," writes Julie.
Wildlife viewing: The pond at Around Pond RV Park hosts waterfowl including swans and ducks. "Pretty location. Cute pond with swans and ducks," writes Ben P. Another visitor noted the "pond area, chickens, ducks, swans" as highlights of their stay.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Three Peaks RV Resort receives consistent praise for cleanliness and organization. "Everything is clean and well maintained. Every site is a pull through with ample space, full hookups, and good Wi-Fi," according to Eric B., who adds, "Not only would we not hesitate to come back, we're looking forward to our next camping getaway."
Convenient amenities: Campers appreciate covered gathering areas at Jessie Lea RV Park. "At the entrance, there is an amazing covered shelter with picnic tables, rocking chairs and grills. The park is well manicured with flowers and trees," notes Charlene, who adds, "make sure you search for the tree gnomes (carved into the trees)."
Dog-friendly spaces: Several rv parks near Kingsport include designated pet areas. Doreen M. at Lakeview RV Resort notes, "Campground sites are a bit close together but it is well maintained and has friendly staff. Wifi works well. Nice dog park."
What you should know
Vehicle access considerations: Roads leading to some campgrounds present challenges for larger rigs. At Rocky Top Campground, one camper cautions, "The camp on the west side is Dangerous to drive up in a motorhome. I personally drove my 36' up the most curvy incline I wouldn't recommend anyone to give this a second thought if your not a seasoned driver."
Noise factors: Proximity to highways creates ambient noise at some locations. Beverly T. describes Around Pond RV Park as a "nice stop off interstate, about 1 mile easy pull thru, during week stop, was quiet, peaceful, little traffic noise through nite."
Seasonal operation: Most Kingsport area campgrounds operate year-round, with varying amenities. Travis R. who visited Jessie Lea during December notes, "We stayed 5 nights through Christmas and it was absolutely wonderful. Owner are very nice and helpful. Facilities were pristine."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds provide recreational facilities for children. At Three Peaks RV Resort, Fuller C. appreciates "the kids' playground, the fenced-in dog park, the game room and laundry, and the incredible number of things to do locally."
Swimming options: Leeman Field Park includes pool access with camping fees. Julie notes, "Neighboring Leeman Field park has multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, swimming pool (Admission to the pool is included in campground fees)."
Local attractions: Family-friendly activities surround many campgrounds. Fuller C. shares that near Three Peaks RV Resort, "On any given day, you could take a mountain hike, go mining for your own gems (real gems!), drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, go tubing in the nearby Toe River, and all manner of other adventures depending what you're into."
Tips from RVers
Connectivity considerations: Internet access varies significantly between campgrounds in the Kingsport area. At Mammoth Ridge RV Park, Dan S. reports, "Wifi is horrible, and cell service is worse."
Site selection: Campgrounds vary in their site configurations. Peter K. described Around Pond RV Park saying, "Site was gravel and completely level. A lot of full time campers here but that doesn't bother us at all."
Check-in procedures: Some RV parks near Kingsport have streamlined arrival processes. Peter K. noted at Around Pond RV Park: "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."
