Best Camping near Kingston, TN

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Kingston, TN has a lot to offer. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Kingston campgrounds just for you. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Kingston and user-submitted reviews.

Best Camping Sites Near Kingston, TN (271)

    Camper-submitted photo from Melton Hill Dam Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
    Camper-submitted photo from Melton Hill Dam Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
    Camper-submitted photo from Melton Hill Dam Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
    Camper-submitted photo from Melton Hill Dam Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
    Camper-submitted photo from Melton Hill Dam Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
    Camper-submitted photo from Melton Hill Dam Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
    Camper-submitted photo from Frozen Head State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Frozen Head State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Frozen Head State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Frozen Head State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Frozen Head State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Frozen Head State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground

    3. Cades Cove Campground

    95 Reviews
    543 Photos
    613 Saves
    Townsend, Tennessee

    Overview

    Over 2 million visitors annually come to enjoy the scenic beauty of Cades Cove and its many historic structures. Popular activities here include hiking, biking, touring the 11-mile Cades Cove loop road and observing wildlife. Whether blanketed in bright wildflowers in the spring or vivid colors in the fall, the scenery at Cades Cove never disappoints.

    Recreation

    The Great Smoky Mountains are a hikers paradise and visitors to Cades Cove Campground love the 5-mile roundtrip hike to Abram Falls. From Cades Cove Loop Road, follow the signage at the turnoff for directions to the trailhead. Although Abrams Falls is only 20 feet high, the large volume of water rushing over falls more than makes up for its lack of height. The long, deep pool at its base is very picturesque. The trail to the falls traverses pine-oak forest on the ridges and hemlock and rhododendron forest along the creek. The waterfall and creek are named for Cherokee Chief Abram or Abraham whose village once stood several miles downstream. A nearby horse stable provides one-hour horseback rides as well as hay rides and carriage rides from March through October, offering recreational activities for the entire family. Campers can also enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the countless streams and rivers that snake through the mountains, with trout available in abundance.

    Natural Features

    Cades Cove is a broad, verdant valley surrounded by mountains and is one of the most popular destinations in the Great Smokies. It offers some of the best opportunities for wildlife viewing in the park. Large numbers of white-tailed deer are frequently seen, and sightings of black bear, coyote, ground hog, turkey, raccoon, skunk, and other animals are also possible. For hundreds of years Cherokee Indians hunted in Cades Cove but archeologists have found no evidence of major settlements. The first Europeans settled in the cove sometime between 1818 and 1821. By 1830 the population of the area had already swelled to 271.

    Nearby Attractions

    The park holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills, have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park, a few of which are easily accessible from the Cades Cove loop road. Townsend, located about nine miles away, offers full service grocery stores and fuel.

    Contact Info

    This location has limited staffing. Please call (865) 448-4103 for general information.

    Charges & Cancellations

    If you plan to arrive at a date later than your arrival date you MUST contact the campground office 865-448-4103 in order to avoid a cancellation to your reservation. If you wish to cancel your reservation the day of your arrival you MUST contact the campground office 865-448-4103 in order to receive a refund. Rules and reservation policies can be found at https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Yarberry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Yarberry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Yarberry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Yarberry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Yarberry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Yarberry Campground

    5. Yarberry Campground

    14 Reviews
    63 Photos
    196 Saves
    Lenoir City, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Sweetwater KOA

    6. Sweetwater KOA

    13 Reviews
    59 Photos
    40 Saves
    Madisonville, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from West Campground — Norris Dam State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from West Campground — Norris Dam State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from West Campground — Norris Dam State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from West Campground — Norris Dam State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from West Campground — Norris Dam State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from West Campground — Norris Dam State Park

    7. West Campground — Norris Dam State Park

    29 Reviews
    111 Photos
    9 Saves
    Lake City, Tennessee

    The west side has 50 sites with water and electric hook-up. The west side also has three paved sites suitable for persons with disabilities. If reserved, proper identification will be required upon check-in.

    To get to the West Campground

    From I-75 take Exit 128 (Rocky Top) and turn left onto US-441 S (Hwy. 61) for 2.8 miles until you see the stone entrance sign for Norris Dam State Park and turn left. Follow the signs to the campground, which will have you take your first left at the yellow gates. Follow the road for one mile to the west campground. ***Please use caution, the road leading to the campground is steep with dangerous curves.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Soaring Eagle Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Soaring Eagle Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Soaring Eagle Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Soaring Eagle Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Soaring Eagle Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Soaring Eagle Campground

    8. Soaring Eagle Campground

    9 Reviews
    23 Photos
    48 Saves
    Kingston, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River

    9. Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River

    12 Reviews
    70 Photos
    88 Saves
    Lancing, Tennessee

    Overview

    Rock Creek Campground is located near the Emory River in the Obed Wild and Scenic River.

    Recreation

    Whitewater paddling is available seasonally in the Obed WSR. Rock climbing is another challenging activity, as is boulder climbing. The Obed WSR sports several unique trails for hikers, most notably the Point Trail and a portion of the Cumberland Trail. Those who like to fish will enjoy the Obed WSR, as a variety of bass, bluegill, catfish and other fish populate the river. Birdwatching is also a fun activity, particularly during the migratory seasons.

    Natural Features

    The Obed River winds through the Cumberland Plateau offering a variety of recreational activities for everyone.

    Nearby Attractions

    Just a few miles from the park is Frozen Head State Park which encompasses more than 24,000 acres of forest with mountainous terrain at an elevation from 1,340 feet to over 3,000 feet. Catoosa Wildlife Management Area is an 82,000 acre preserve with a focus on hunting and fishing but offering a wealth of other recreational activities as well. Lone Mountain State Forest is 3,600 acres and has 15 miles of trails for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cove Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cove Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cove Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cove Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cove Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cove Lake State Park Campground

    10. Cove Lake State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    49 Photos
    95 Saves
    La Follette, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $55 / night

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 271 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Kingston

Recent Reviews in Kingston

1255 Reviews of 271 Kingston Campgrounds


  • Kim L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Nov. 26, 2024

    Cades Cove Campground

    Near popular Cades Cove scenic drive

    Approx 20 miles from main visitor center. The scenic drive increases congestion and traffic. Camp store is near campsites. Also a ranger station. Several hiking trails are accessible from campground. All driveways shaded, paved, and level. Very pleasant place. Only negative is the requirement to check in between 9-10:00 am the following day if one arrived later than check in time, which caused me to change hiking plans.

  • Stoked C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Windrock Ridge Campground
    Nov. 10, 2024

    Windrock Ridge Campground

    Wooded Dispersed Tent Sites For Spaceo

    First time at Windrock Campground. very nice property and has spots for all types of outfits and campers. I’m in a truck camper with a rooftop tent. The wooded tent sites where perfect not all are level so ask to drive through and preview avails before booking. fire ring, table provided. the only down side is that there is heavy SxS traffic on camp roads until late evening. otherwise pretty swanky place to camp. There are open sky spots around the bathhouse if you need solar or satellite. Those are all flat.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
    Oct. 25, 2024

    Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    Beautiful, well kept campground…

    We loved Bandycreek campground for it{s scenic beauty….we were there in late October. They leaves were brilliant! The campground was pristine as well as the shower house and bathrooms. So many trails to walk…just make sure you know how long they really are and if they truly are a loop before you head out and take water! The campground was quiet, there was a bustle of activity every morning of park staff cleaning the shower house, emptying the bear boxes and doing general maintenance cleaning up downed branches etc. All staff were met were very friendly. The visitors center was close with staff who were very helpful in answering questions about the area. Our only concern about the place was that it is difficult to navigate if you have a large rv. Ours is a 43 foot fifth wheel. We had a lot of difficulty backing into our site with all the little obstacles but with the assistance of a fellow camper we finally got in. Also the drive into the campsite is treacherous if you are coming from Oneida. It is harrowing to say the least and I would not recommend it if you have a large rv. Hairpin turns and switchbacks, low hanging rocks, and narrow road. We came in the back way which consisted of driving on a well maintained gravel road with barely enough room for two vehicles to pass. So be warned and do your research before you drive in…plan your route! I feel like we barely survived! Ha. But it was worth it and we did survive!

  • Donny A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Howland's Hidout
    Oct. 15, 2024

    Howland's Hidout

    Nice backyard camping

    Easy to find, close to Fall Creek Falls, Power available, quiet spot except for the coyotes in the woods. Confused Roosters will wake you up at various times. Ear plugs help with the Roosters and coyotes. It's not a campground so don't expect a shower house or bathrooms. I would stay there again. Owner is an exceptional host.

  • Pam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from True West Campground & Stables
    Oct. 13, 2024

    True West Campground & Stables

    Super Friendly Staff

    We stayed here on a KAT section 2 trip.  Super friendly and helpful staff.   They had campsites, covered wagons, and cabins.  The had a small camp store and sold firewood

  • Pam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from True West Campground & Stables
    Oct. 13, 2024

    True West Campground & Stables

    Super Friendly Staff

    We stayed there while running the KAT section 2.  Great staff.  Lots of room for horses.  They had campsites, covered wagons and cabin space.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cove Creek RV Resort
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Cove Creek RV Resort

    Quiet and convenient

    We stayed 3 nights in one of the creekside sites. Very nice. Staff was very friendly. Water, electric, and sewer all worked. Great location outside the chaos of Pigeon Forge. Townsend and Cades Cove were easy drives.

  • Cindy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pigeon Forge Landing RV Resort
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Pigeon Forge Landing RV Resort

    Love this place

    Highly recommended this place. New facility clean bathroom with offers solid doors for privacy. Right in the middle of the attractions. Loved this place.

  • V
    Camper-submitted photo from Fooshee Pass Campground
    Sep. 13, 2024

    Fooshee Pass Campground

    Beautiful and well maintained!

    Ample space, gorgeous views of the lake, and super friendly staff. We stayed in space 19. It is sized for a smaller rig which was perfect for us. We got to watch fish jump and a crane fishing in the morning. Only caught small fish, but the kids had a blast swimming. The lake is shallow with a slow grade which was perfect for our young children. Everyone was friendly and respectful. The bathrooms were clean and it was a nice bonus to have a no-charge shower available for tent camping.

  • Angie B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fontana Village Resort and Campground
    Sep. 10, 2024

    Fontana Village Resort and Campground

    Favorite Vacation Spot

    We have stayed at the Campground for 15 years!  Love Beth who helps with Reservations. I really like the fact it is a very small campground, sitting back a long way off the main road.  Sites are spread out. Shower house easy access from all sites. Very few, if any kids when we go.  Having all the amenities of Fontana Village Resort is icing on the cake. I've already made Reservations for 2025.

  • Mary D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hornsby Hollow Campground
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Hornsby Hollow Campground

    Beautiful Sites!

    The campground was one of the most scenic I've been to. Some of the lakefront spots had their own access to the lake and plenty of trees. The camp host was amazing!

  • t
    Camper-submitted photo from The Road Less Traveled
    Sep. 1, 2024

    The Road Less Traveled

    Road I won’t travel again

    Let me start with the good. We had a beautiful view from across the very busy highway of some mountains. Campsites 25 and 26 were under some nice big oaks. The rest of the sites appear to be long term residents or under construction. Bad stuff please check out the numerous rules and if you have kids i would not recommend. We got reprimanded for the 6 yr old hanging on the teeter-ball. Which we know is not how its used but kids will be kids. Kinda felt like we were being watched for infractions 24/7. The electric was not working on our site but luckily we had a long extension cord to pull from a vacate site. Sure we broke the rules there :( Dump station was sloping in the wrong direction so not getting clean tank

    Overall we didn’t feel very welcome there and probably will not return

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Cades Cove Campground

    Awesome time

    If you're looking for peace and quiet, then this is the place to be. Had numerous sightings of wildlife even in the campground. Note... Do not forget to remove the drip pan on the Blackstone!!!! Doing so just erritates the bears.

  • m
    Camper-submitted photo from The Crosseyed Cricket
    Aug. 17, 2024

    The Crosseyed Cricket

    I like it

    I prefer playing cricket for physical exercise rather than virtual games like Nulls Brawl. It's a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, especially in beautiful locations like The Crosseyed Cricket Campground in Tennessee.

  • Nadiia R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Mountaineer Campground
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Mountaineer Campground

    Awful place

    I highly DO NOT RECOMMEND this place. They completely do not respect their guests. I booked a half a year in advance and asked the question if they have a separate bed for each and they assured me they do. Unfortunately, my child ended up sleeping on the table. I tried to ask for an additional mattress or a partial/full refund but they didn’t want to hear me. They offered me to go to the store and buy one for myself. A complete disrespect I drove for six hours to be as disappointed as I had never been in life. Please, beware that coming here you’re going to sleep either on the floor or on the table and the staff doesn’t care about you or do not respect you. People, please do not come here.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pigeon Forge Landing RV Resort
    Jul. 7, 2024

    Pigeon Forge Landing RV Resort

    July 4th Stay

    We booked our trip late and this campsite was the only one with vacancy. That had us worried, BUT it turned out great and we would stay here again!

    The pool was clear and clean and (I think) a salt water base so it wasn’t an overpower of chlorine which I liked since I have a 9 month old. The area could use more chairs, but you could always bring your own.

    The only downside of our stay was there wasn’t much shade. They have planted trees so in the future it’ll be very nice with shade, but there’s only shade on the outside lots of the property. The lot itself is so easy to connect to electric, waste, and water.

    The bathrooms were great quality and clean. We appreciated the bathroom in the middle of the property for easier access!

    The WiFi worked well and our phones weren’t completely out of service. Maybe in some areas like the pavilion.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Boundary
    Jun. 25, 2024

    Indian Boundary

    Camping

    Nice place good quiet. Just would be better if they had water at each site. And a duping station too

  • lThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Up the Creek RV Camp
    Jun. 23, 2024

    Up the Creek RV Camp

    Amazing lil gem

    One of my favorite rv parks, beautiful setting, close to everything but very peaceful. And they have lil cabins and rvs to rent if you don't have one. I will always choose here when visiting gatlinburg/pigeon forge area.


Drive Time


Guide to Kingston

Camping near Kingston, Tennessee, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled trip, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Good hikes nearby," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Cades Cove Campground, visitors often spot wildlife. One reviewer said, "Had numerous sightings of wildlife even in the campground."
  • Fishing and Swimming: Harrison Bay State Park Campground is perfect for water activities. A camper shared, "There is also a 'beach' you can hang out and swim at which is beautiful."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Greenbrier Campground. One review stated, "Bathrooms were amazing," highlighting the well-maintained amenities.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Elkmont Campground is noted for its activities for kids. A family shared, "The campground is beautiful and the park rangers were awesome."
  • Quiet and Peaceful: Many enjoy the tranquility at Frozen Head State Park Campground. A visitor remarked, "It's always quiet," making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.

What you should know:

  • Site Spacing: Campgrounds like Cades Cove Campground can be tightly packed. One camper noted, "Most sites are close together," so plan accordingly.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, such as Harrison Bay State Park Campground, may lack certain amenities. A review mentioned, "The pool is closed (Covid?) - it looks abandoned."
  • Bear Awareness: At Elkmont Campground, campers should be cautious of bears. One visitor advised, "Due to the amount of black bears in the area, they’re very vigilant about keeping trash in trash cans."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities. Greenbrier Campground has bounce houses and multiple playgrounds, making it a hit with families.
  • Plan for Crowds: Popular spots like Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground can get crowded. One camper advised, "Plan ahead to get a good site."
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Keep kids entertained with snacks and games. A family at Cades Cove Campground enjoyed their stay despite the close quarters, saying, "The store was convenient."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Anchor Down RV Resort mentioned, "Tight for our 45 ft bus."
  • Use Amenities: Take advantage of amenities like dump stations and electric hookups. Campers at Greenbrier Campground appreciated the "super clean bathrooms/showers."
  • Stay Connected: Some campgrounds may have limited cell service. A visitor at Cades Cove Campground noted, "No cell service with T-Mobile, so have a good book."

Camping around Kingston, TN, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions