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Brigid K.
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TravelerFlag Rock Recreation Area Campground
Easy to get to, cheap, good bathrooms.
Tent Camping near Kingsport, TN
5 campgrounds with availability this weekend
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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.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Kingsport (47)
1. Moody Bluff Campground — Warriors' Path State Park
"Quiet neighbors. All around wonderful place to camp"
"updated bathhouses lots of shady sites sits on Patrick Henry Lake - no boat that’s ok rent paddle boats and kayaks at the Marina or just have lunch and watch the ducks on the water!"
2. Bellebrook Acres
Check Availabilityfrom $50 - $70 / night
3. Blackberry Blossom Farm & Campground
"There’s a covered outdoor space for small events, too. For me however, the huge draw is the natural beauty of the place."
"to get away to some quiet (NO traffic noises!) and decompress. Janice and Ed are the kindest, most considerate hosts you could imagine. "
Check Availabilityfrom $24 - $55 / night
4. Hot Springs Campground
"Situated along the beautiful French Broad River."
"Beautiful campground with great campstore right at the entrance that sells everything. Large campsites with great privacy foliage, picnic tables, & fire rings."
5. Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost
"Staying at The Cliffhanger Ranch places you in a quiet area surrounded by forests and a small downtown nearby, perfect for adventuring around a new area. "
"What makes this place great is that the entrance is directly across from the Jefferson National Forrest."
Check Availabilityfrom $20 - $35 / night
6. The Laurels Picnic Area Pavilions
Check Availabilityfrom $30 / night
7. Busted Pipe Campground
from $25 - $55 / night
8. USA Raft Adventure Resort
9. Little Stony Creek Road Dispersed Area
"Stayed a night out here while traveling, scary narrow rocky trails, but beautiful streams and mountains"
10. 3 Day Nature Effect in the Smoky Mountains
"I love how close the Appalachian Trail is to this property. This is the perfect place to unplug and relax."
Check Availabilityfrom $39 - $74 / night
Drive Time
- 15 min from Johnson City, TN
- 50 min from Morristown, TN
- 1 hr 18 min from Asheville, NC
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Kingsport, TN
40 Photos of 47 Kingsport Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
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Tent Camping Reviews near Kingsport, TN
563 Reviews of 47 Kingsport Campgrounds
Windy W.
ScoutDoe River Landing
Beautiful Place, Ugly host, Oct 2026
Let me first start by saying that this campground is absolutely beautiful. I have lived in this area my entire life and the Doe is one of my favorites. I am a avid camper and have camped all over this area. I decided to give this place a try, I own a small pop-up camper and knew it was going to get cold 10/20/2026-10/22/2026, so me and my sister rented the RV at Doe River. #1 check in is not until 3pm, I always order a load of wood from a local guy who delivers to camp sites, I do all my cooking in a Dutch oven over the fire or burgers and dogs in the fire, what is a camping trip without a nice warm fire. The owner came over to my campsite and asked if I had ordered this wood and I replied yes, she then asked what I was going to do with it all, I replied I am going to burn it. So, I told Carl (the wood guy) where to stack it, the owner then said that I need to leave it in my truck bc if I didn't use it all I would have to put it back on my truck and take it home with me, I said really? It's just a unspoken rule that if you don't use all your wood that you pay it forward and leave it for the next camper?? She said absolutely not, So we moved the wood from his truck and into mine. She then asked again why I needed so much wood and that most ppl just buy small bundles from her. And just like that I understood! Carl the wood man and his wife also made a comment about how rude she was about the wood. It does not end there, Not only does she have camaras on some of the out blds which I get, but I don't get why they are pointing directly at camp sites, We felt like we were in a fish bowl the entire time. Every single time we went to the bathroom she showed up abt 5 mins later, There is a camara right above the bathroom door, One on the pavilion, and one on each side of the bathhouse, at the entrances and who know where else. So much for privacy in the great outdoors. I didn't even feel comfortable hiking, we felt like we were being watched constantly. She was constantly there, walking her dog which was not friendly and so big she could hardly control him on the leash which was really scary, she also was driving through several times throughout the day. Then came the kicker, about 1 o'clock in the morning we were freezing, I had turned the heat on in the camper before going to bed and heard it come on, Well the propane ran out between 11pm and 1am, I called her at least 10 times we had every blanket and was still freezing, We decided we would go to the bath house bc it had a mini split hanging on the wall, Out of luck there, it was set on air conditioning with no way to change it, so we found a blow dryer trying to get warm, still the entire time trying to call the owners, We finally ended up in our car until the husband arrived. He acted so annoyed at us and said all u have to do is fip the switch on the propane tanks outside! We had never stayed in a travel trailer before and according to them all we had to do was show up and start glamping!! So, I was supposed to know to go outside at 1 am and switch over propane tanks?? No, It should have been FULL when I got there!!! With attitude he said,"Its Basic Camping" No sir it's not, what I do is basic camping, I was told on the phone that I was glamping, She, the owner also said we should have called 911 when we could not get hold of them so that Carter County police officers could come and wake them up!!! Not sure if that is putting our tax dollars to good use?? Like I said it is truly a beautiful place and has great potential, we left that second night at 11pm because again the heat was not working, we have not asked for any refund we just took the loss. it would be to much of a hassle. We just know better next time. With owners like that they can keep it. Windy Wells/Debra Price
Bonnie H.ScoutDoe River Landing
Kylie T & Andrew W. Review not accurate
My husband and I arrived at Doe River Landing for 3 nights and enjoyed everything the resort offered. While there we read the 2 reviews posted by Kylie T, and by Andrew W, who gave the resort a 1 star rating. Not knowing the facts that caused the rating by them, and occurred prior to us, we approach the owner and asked.
The owner showed us videos from their security cameras. These adults has stated in Kylie T review and confirm by Andrew W review that they were a group of 20 adults and "every single one of us is over 21 and family". So why are these adults playing "hide and seek" under the pavilion as they stated? Andrew W stated, "It was not blocked off", yet they had to crawl on the ground and around bushes to get under the pavilion. When the owner yelled at them approximately 10 adults that were under the pavilion crawled out which was captured on the security cameras. Andrew W stated in his review the owner called them hooligans, which is rowdy, destructive persons and from the security cameras, that description is correct. There was no mention of damages in their reviews such as the Adirondack chair they broke or possible damage to the water pipes and electric wires under the pavilion, which the owner was currently checking.
Once we read these two reviews by Kylie T and Andrew W and saw the owners security videos, we felt future customers deserved to know another opinion based on our findings.
These entitled adults justified their review of a 1 star by stating they paid money to use the campground.
I would ask these adults "why do you think it is OK to treat someone else's property in this destructive way?"
Kyle T.ScoutDoe River Landing
Unprofessional hosts that ruins a place with good potential
We brought our whole family out and rented almost every cabin on the property, plus the event center, for the weekend— we gave this place a lot of business. And honestly, the stay itself was great— nice place, no complaints about the cabins. The owner is the problem. He came flying in in his blue F-150 doing 20–30 mph where the posted speed limit is 5, and started screaming at us over something that could've been handled with a simple conversation. His exact words:"Where are your parents? This is a family establishment. I will not have hooligans running around here." Every single one of us is over 21 and family. All we were doing was playing hide and seek— which isn't against any of the property's rules— and there were no other guests to disturb, since we had the entire area rented. He still threatened to call the police, even though it wasn't even quiet hours. Before anyone could get a word in, he peeled out so fast the gravel sprayed up at us and our cars. Then on his way out he drove the wrong way down the property's one-way road, so apparently the rules only apply to guests. It's sad, because the property itself is great, and we were never anything but nice to the owners the whole weekend. To be treated in such an unprofessional manner— screamed at, threatened, and never given so much as an apology afterward— put a real dent in the weekend. We won't be back
- AAndrew W.Scout
Doe River Landing
Beautiful place ruined by unprofessional ownership
Our group of about 20 rented nearly every cabin at Doe River Landing for my friend's wedding weekend, with the reception held on site. The cabins were nice and well-equipped, and the only other guests were in a cabin half a mile away through the woods. Unfortunately, the hosts ruined the stay. One night, some of us were playing hide and seek in an area that wasn't blocked off or against any rule. The host's husband came speeding in at roughly 30 mph(the posted limit is 5), jumped out of his truck screaming that he"will not have child hooligans running around the campground," told us to"go back to the motel we crawled out of," and demanded to see our parents— despite all of us being adults in our twenties. He then peeled out so aggressively he sprayed gravel at us and our cars. It wasn't even quiet hours, and we weren't disturbing anyone. Afterward, the host called us again, passive-aggressive, and questioned our ages— even though you have to be 21 just to rent a cabin there. The property is lovely, but the hosts' behavior put a real damper on what should have been a joyful wedding celebration. It's a shame they treat people paying good money this way. We won't be back.
Juliana J.
RangerWashington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites
Epic Spot Near Iron Mountain and Rush Trails
I wandered a bit and took a left up a gravel road near where the sites indicated were located and just drove for a few miles. Found an awesome spot with a fire pit and lush surroundings. The road was unpaved (but as are all to the best spots) and there were definitely some large rocks and potholes to navigate. Would suggest higher raised vehicle. Saw nobody else and felt like I had my own slice of paradise.
- April V.
GuideLakeview RV Resort
Nice little campground
Clean nice little campground for the weekend.
David P.ScoutWoodsmoke Campground
Wooded Getaway
This is a nice wooded campground with nice shelters next to most campsites. Bathrooms were clean. Check in was easy. Owner did not require a deposit, made reservations by phone. I did have to change the check in time and communicated with owners easily. Gates close around dark so late check in is not possible. Only negative feedback I have is that owner requested not to use the campground bathrooms if fully hooked up and bathrooms are for tent camping purposes. This was not explained or advertised prior to reservations. Im paying for the convenience of not using my black tanks. Overall would stay here again.
Wes B.ScoutDark Ridge HideOut (Adults Only)
Great spot and friendly host
Campsites are great and the host will go out of his way to ensure you're having a great stay. Highly recommend
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?
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?
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?
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?
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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