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Best Tent Camping near Kingsport, TN

533 Reviews
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Tent campsites near Kingsport, Tennessee range from primitive dispersed areas to established tent campgrounds with basic amenities. Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area offers free, primitive tent camping with water access for fishing and kayaking, while Blackberry Blossom Farm & Campground provides developed tent sites with clean facilities and scenic mountain views approximately 30 miles southwest of Kingsport in the Cherokee National Forest region.

Most tent-only camping areas feature rustic conditions with varying amenities. Blackberry Blossom Farm provides clean bathhouses with hot water, designated fire rings, and access to drinking water, making it suitable for campers seeking basic comforts. In contrast, dispersed tent camping at Little Stony Creek requires complete self-sufficiency with no drinking water, toilets, or trash services. Sites generally have natural, uneven terrain with partial shade from surrounding forest cover. During peak summer weekends, established campgrounds often reach capacity, while dispersed areas allow more flexibility but require proper waste management and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.

Tent campers frequently mention the natural beauty and privacy levels at various sites. The primitive tent camping at Little Stony Creek offers direct water access at some sites, though road noise can be significant. According to one visitor, "Lots of road noise—you're sitting in a valley bordered by highway on 3 sides, and the echo is serious." For those preferring more developed tent camping, Blackberry Blossom Farm provides a balance of wilderness and comfort. A review mentioned that "the campsites are far enough apart that I don't feel like I'm on top of other campers" and praised the "little creeks which provide a nice background ambiance." Walk-in tent sites at some locations offer additional privacy but require carrying gear short distances from parking areas.

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Best Tent Sites Near Kingsport, Tennessee (46)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Kingsport, TN

44 Photos of 46 Kingsport Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Kingsport, TN

533 Reviews of 46 Kingsport Campgrounds

  • Shari G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 30, 2020

    Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area

    Beautiful & Free but Lots of Road Noise

    Just on the edge of Watauga Lake sits this free dispersed camping area that is perfect for tent camping only. This is a park outside the gate and walk your gear in type of place, some bring your IKEA bags or a wagon. Opportunities for fishing and boating are abundant. Most of campsites are large, very shaded, and have at least one fire ring. A handful of sites have direct water access, and are more private. 

    There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or even pit toilet, so come prepared. The only major problem is that folks tend to leave a ton of trash around, so we spent about an hour cleaning the entire campground. Please Leave No Trace! Also, we would not recommend camping here on a busy weekend because the road is very close and the trucks are very loud! 

    The nearest town is Butler, which is small but offers the basics such as groceries and gas.

  • P
    Jul. 13, 2021

    Kingdom Come State Park Campground

    Quiet, beautiful views

    This campground in the Kingdom Come State Park has about 6 or 7 sites, and they are primitive with no running water, but good pads, picnic tables, food hangers, shade from trees, and fire rings. There are men's and women's bathrooms, with running water in the sinks, but no water faucets as in other camps, and no showers. I've camped there twice and only saw one other camper. It is very quiet and remote. The views from the outlooks at the top of the road are amazing. There is a lake for swimming, and plenty of trails. Bugs are minimal.

  • Shari G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 30, 2020

    Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites

    Creekside Camping

    At the intersection of the North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia state lines, sits this national forest which offers multiple dispersed camping areas along Bear Creek. Opportunities for hiking, cycling, fishing, and paddling are abundant.  The Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail are just minutes away, as well as some easy whitewater paddling fun on the White Top Laurel Creek.

    Most of campsites are large, very shaded, along a beautiful treelined road, and surrounded by mountains. There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or even pit toilet, so come prepared. The only major problem is that folks tend to leave a ton of trash around, so we often spend about 20-30 minutes cleaning these sites upon arrival. Please Leave No Trace! 

    Our site had a good fire ring, and was on the edge of a creek that we could filter water from with ease. We stayed at this camp for 3 weeks during the pandemic shutdown and it was a perfect place to ride out this crazy storm and decompress from some anxiety. 

    The closest town is Damascus, VA, about 12 miles away. The town is small, but draws thousands of tourists each year who are either hiking the Appalachian Trail or cycling the famous Virginia Creeper bike path. It is equipped with a decent sized grocery store, gas, and couple of restaurants, and a cute downtown area. There is absolutely no cell service at this camp, you have to go into town or hike a local mountain to get service up high.

  • Shari G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 2, 2021

    Backbone Rock Recreation Area Pavilions and Campground

    Easy Access, Close to Town

    Just across the Virginia state line, this national forest offers multiple dispersed camping areas along Beaver Dam Creek. Opportunities for hiking, cycling, fishing, and paddling are abundant. Most of campsites are large, very shaded, along a beautiful treelined road, and surrounded by mountains. 

    There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or even pit toilet, so come prepared. The only major problem is that folks tend to leave a ton of trash around, so we often spend about 20-30 minutes cleaning these sites upon arrival. Please Leave No Trace! Our site had a good fire ring, and was on the edge of a creek that we could filter water from with ease.  Would not recommend for any vehicle larger than 20 feet as the potholed road and the tight turns to get up to the camp from the road would be tough.  4WD highly recommended, especially in mud season or winter.

    We stayed at this camp for 10 days during the pandemic shutdown and it was a lovely place to ride out this crazy storm.  Some road noise from the motorcycles that cruise the road, but only occasionally. The closest town is Damascus, VA, about 5 miles away. The town is small, but draws thousands of tourists each year who are either hiking the Appalachian Trail or cycling the famous Virginia Creeper bike path. It is equipped with a decent sized grocery store, gas, and couple of restaurants, and a cute downtown area. There is absolutely no cell service at this camp, you have to go into town or hike a local mountain to get service up high.

  • S
    Oct. 12, 2020

    Kingdom Come State Park Campground

    Lovely quiet, small tent campground

    Kingdom Come State Park is a little jewel in southeastern Kentucky! There are 6 tent sites (7 if they allow you to reserve the one next to the duck pond), each with a gravel drive, mulch tent pad big enough for two smallish tents, fire ring, and picnic table. The nearby shelter house provides restrooms and trash cans. The local ranger was most helpful in providing firewood (free!) and offering to bring us water to wash up with or for drinking (there is a water fountain across from the CG, but it wasn't turned on and there is running water in the restrooms). The area is known for bear activity, but we saw none. The surrounding mountains provide many short hikes that can be easily strung together to make for a longer trek if desired. We look forward to camping there again!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2024

    Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping — Natural Tunnel State Park

    Primitive at its finest

    Booked a 3 night stay over the weekend and had the primitive camping area to ourselves. 5 spots with tent pads, picnic tables, fire pit, hanging poles, and bear box. Then there is a very large, communal fire pit, and an open but covered shelter with picnic tables and an outlet to charge your tech things. Water spigot at top, a little walk, uphill, for water. The camp store people said they are unable to use spigot nearby common shelter because it’s no good. 🤷🏻‍♀️ Glad we brought our large bladder so we weren’t constantly going up and down the hill for water. Camp store with some basics at entrance, and person on golf cart drives around checking on things. Trash dumpster, up the hill just past water spigot. Couldn’t have asked for a more peaceful place, especially for the price, $15/night. Took advantage of some of the hiking trails, which were well maintained and marked. Also, went and checked out the natural tunnel via chairlift. The other two campgrounds looked nice, with big, fancy bathhouses. And the cabins, wow, fancy! Hooray for Virginia State Parks!!

  • H
    Aug. 10, 2020

    Rocky Bluff Campground — National Forests In North Carolina

    We Will Be Back!

    The location is absolutely stellar. Less than 10 minutes into downtown Hot Springs with a hardware store, outdoor outfitters, gas station, two bar/restaurants, and of course lots of hiking. Just over 30 minutes away from the Max Patch trailhead.

    We stayed at spot #4 for one night. I thought the fire pit for spot #4 and the tent pad for spot #3 were a little close. Other than that, the sites were spaced out well.

    There were no electrical outlets available at this campground, not even one in the bathroom. Bathrooms have flush toilets but no showers.

    I used the reservation.gov website to reserve the site and paid $23 - $15 for the site and a $8 reservation fee. There is a lock box for walk ins and the fee is $15 per night.

    I had spotty cell phone service with AT&T - I had two bars the site and was able to make a call. I lost service when walking around the campground.

    This is a well-maintained, no-frills campground which is the perfect base camp for exploring the area!

  • Kirsten J.
    Jun. 3, 2019

    Buck Hill Campground

    Beyond beautiful riverfront site on the North Toe River!

    Buck Hill Campground is located near Newland NC.  The family owned, Buck Hill campground has been with the same owner for the last 10 years.  We spoke with both husband and wife while on this trip - both as friendly as could be!  

    Upon arrival, we were a bit confused because there was no office to check into.  After riding around and exploring the (TOTAL) available 5 or 6 tent sites, we chose the one we wanted and asked around for the owners.  We easily found the family working near the gathering room and they immediately made us feel welcome.  They informed us about laundry, bathhouses, the playground and gathering room etc.  

    We chose the only tent site on the water - which was phenomenal!  The site had a fire ring only, but we were ok without a picnic table, in exchange for the view!  We had water and greenery surrounding us on 3 sides.  We positioned our tent just right and blocked the RV's from behind us - leaving us feeling like we were on a private peninsula.  It didn't take long for kiddos to be playing in the shallow river water (finding a snake) and us to have camp set up. 

    The campground has 2 bathhouses, both containing toilets, sinks, showers and a deep sink for washing.  We needed firewood - and upon suggestion from an RV neighbor, looked for the blue topped golf cart - which was up at their house - on site.  We pulled into their driveway and the owner told us he would bring us wood to our site.  

    We enjoyed a calm, quiet evening in this campground.  The views were fantastic and the fireflies beyond words!  With so much darkness, the other side of the river looked like a sparkling Christmas tree with the fireflies dancing their magic!  We would come back again just for this site!  

    The tiny homes and cabins looked enticing, but the other tent sites were a bit rough.  There were several platforms, which are so helpful for wet camping trips.  There were workers actively building a new cabin as we were there!   We would surely come back for the riverfront site - it was beyond beautiful!

  • Susan E.
    Jul. 16, 2020

    Bristol-Kingsport KOA

    What luck!

    I’d never used a KOA before but was tremendously impressed with the serene beauty of this place situated well away from traffic in a bucolic setting. Mindful of my budget I learned to ask for a tent site with no electricity, no water, just toilets and showers. The young man who helped me observed I was alone and put me in a small cabin for no additional charge. Just outside the cabin was a bonfire of old wood from construction debris. I was super stoked to get this deal. I spent lots of time stoking that fire and sitting outdoors watching the evening arrive. If you’re anywhere near the area do stop in and enjoy a quiet and lovely night. You can even pet the horses nearby.

Guide to Kingsport

Dispersed tent camping near Kingsport, Tennessee offers free and low-cost options within the Cherokee National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,600 to 3,000 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows regularly dropping below freezing. Most campsites sit along creek beds or forest service roads with limited cellular coverage throughout the area.

What to do

Kayaking access points: The Nolichucky River provides whitewater opportunities for tent campers staying at USA Raft Adventure Resort. "Launch your raft or theirs and enjoy the outdoors," notes one camper. For an additional fee, some properties offer shuttle services for personal watercraft.

Hiking trails: The Appalachian Trail runs nearby many camping areas, allowing day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips. "The AT meanders along the River and is easily accessible from the campground," writes one visitor to USA Raft Adventure Resort. Beauty Spot Gap provides trailhead access with primitive camping options.

Hot springs soaking: Cross the state line to Hot Springs, NC (about 60 miles from Kingsport) for mineral soaks after hiking. "Loved the spa. Amazing views open air hot tubs. Great hiking across the river and cute little town to explore," reports a camper at Hot Springs Campground.

What campers like

Creek ambiance: Small waterways throughout the region provide natural sound barriers and fishing opportunities. At Blackberry Blossom Farm & Campground, campers appreciate "sites near a small babbling creek" where you can wake up "to the awesome sounds of nature."

Clean facilities: When choosing between primitive and developed camping options, facility cleanliness matters. One camper noted, "I have never been to a cleaner, more beautiful campground in my life... the bathhouse is spotless, and the campsites themselves are clear and well-maintained."

Mountain views: The scenic landscape offers photographic opportunities from many campsites. "From the fields there is a framed view of the gorgeous local mountain range, perfect for photo opportunities," reports one Blackberry Blossom visitor, highlighting the visual appeal of the area.

What you should know

Road noise concerns: Highway proximity impacts some camping areas. At Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area, a camper warns about "sitting in a valley bordered by highway on 3 sides, and the echo is serious," noting the significant sound issues during busy periods.

Pack-in requirements: Several dispersed sites require carrying gear from parking areas. One visitor describes Little Stony Creek as "a park outside the gate and walk your gear in type of place, some bring your IKEA bags or a wagon."

Trash management: Free camping areas often lack waste services. "Folks tend to leave a ton of trash around, so we spent about an hour cleaning the entire campground," reports one camper, emphasizing the need to pack out all waste.

Tips for camping with families

Farm-based camping: Agricultural settings provide structured environments suitable for children. At Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost, families can experience "a very secluded and peaceful camping adventure" while having access to nearby Jefferson National Forest recreation areas.

Creek play areas: Children enjoy wading in shallow water features during warm months. The Laurels Picnic Area, though not an overnight camping spot, offers day-use creek access described as a "great place to take kids for picnic and to play in the Creek."

Educational opportunities: Some locations offer nature-based learning experiences. "3 Day Nature Effect in the Smoky Mountains" provides dedicated programs for unplugging and environmental education, described as "the perfect place to unplug and relax."

Tips for RVers

Limited dispersed options: Most primitive camping areas near Kingsport accommodate tents only. One camper visiting Beauty Spot Gap notes it's "more of a trail head parking lot" and "not an RV spot," highlighting the limitations for larger vehicles.

Narrow access roads: Forest service routes often present challenges for larger vehicles. One visitor describes "scary narrow rocky trails" leading to campsites, suggesting smaller RVs or truck campers for remote locations.

Full hookup scarcity: Few campgrounds offer complete RV services within 30 miles of Kingsport. Hot Springs Campground (in North Carolina) offers this rare amenity, with a visitor noting "only 3 fifty amp full hook up sites. Lots of 30 amp and tent camping."

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there secluded tent camping spots around Kingsport?

For truly secluded tent camping near Kingsport, head to Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites. Located at the intersection of North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia state lines, these dispersed sites along Bear Creek offer privacy and solitude. The forest provides excellent access to the Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. Bellebrook Acres also offers more private walk-in tent sites with basic amenities while maintaining a natural, secluded feel.

Where are the best tent camping sites near Kingsport, TN?

The Kingsport area offers excellent tent camping options within a short drive. Rocky Fork State Park Campground provides varied hiking trails from flat to challenging terrain, plus excellent trout fishing in streams stocked weekly. For amenities and comfort, Hot Springs Campground features spacious sites with picnic tables and fire rings along the beautiful French Broad River. Most sites offer good privacy with foliage, and the campground has a well-stocked camp store. While slightly further, both locations make excellent weekend destinations for Kingsport residents looking for tent camping experiences.

Can I find tent camping with lake access near Kingsport?

Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area sits on the edge of Watauga Lake, providing excellent water access for tent campers. This free dispersed camping area requires carrying your gear in from the parking area but rewards you with waterfront sites perfect for fishing and launching kayaks or small boats. Watauga Point Recreation Area offers another option with drive-in access to tent sites near the lake. Both locations provide the relaxing experience of camping with water views and direct lake access, though amenities are limited at these more natural settings.

What free tent camping options exist near Kingsport, Tennessee?

Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area offers free dispersed camping on the edge of Watauga Lake. This area is ideal for tent camping only and requires carrying your gear in from the parking area. The location provides excellent opportunities for fishing and boating access. Another option is Paint Creek Corridor, where you can find free dispersed camping opportunities beyond the paid campground area. While official sites cost $10 with vault toilets, adventurous campers might find suitable spots along the corridor, though always check current regulations regarding dispersed camping.

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