Kingston, Tennessee sits at the foothills of the Cumberland Plateau, creating diverse camping terrain with elevations ranging from 760 to 1,200 feet. The area receives about 50 inches of annual rainfall, making it lush and green during summer months. Glamping close to Kingston offers campers access to Watts Bar Lake with its 780 miles of shoreline and over 39,000 acres of water surface.
What to do
Hiking to overlooks: At Frozen Head State Park Campground, multiple trails lead to scenic vistas. "For starters, the ranger that was on duty at the Visitor's Center was so helpful and kind. The campground is in close proximity to many of the trailheads... If you are able, make sure to hike to the Lookout Tower!" notes Jessica L.
Off-road adventures: Windrock Campground provides direct access to Windrock Park's 73,000 acres of trails. "Miles and miles of trails. General store, beautiful overlooks," says Nick C. The park features paths for all skill levels and vehicle types.
Water recreation: Multiple lakes within 30 minutes of Kingston offer swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. "This is a very lively, well traveled RV Park and Campground... For amenities there is a bouncy blob (dry), small pond with fountain and memorial bench," shares Laura H. about Sweetwater KOA.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground maintains well-kept bathhouses and camping areas. "This campground has everything you need and nothing you don't. The prices are reasonable and the hiking trails within the park start right next to the campsites," reports Paige D.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacious layout at local campgrounds. "Smaller standard campsites but laid out nicely and not over crowded. Bathhouse is beautiful with cedar stalls," says Brittni F. about Frozen Head State Park.
Nature immersion: The Kingston area offers true woodland camping experiences. "We stayed at campsite 8 (primitive section) we loved the site, it was huge, and we had a great time. The water was almost all dried up but there was still enough left behind out camp site to lay & play in," writes Liz A.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the Kingston area have peak seasons from April through October. "The gates get locked so make sure you arrive early. We got locked out and couldn't contact anyone," warns Melanie G. about Frozen Head State Park.
Reservation requirements: Cades Cove Campground requires advance planning. "Approx 20 miles from main visitor center. The scenic drive increases congestion and traffic... Only negative is the requirement to check in between 9-10:00 am the following day if one arrived later than check in time," notes Kim L.
Wildlife awareness: Bear safety protocols apply in many campgrounds near Kingston. "We have been camping at Frozen Head since I was a child... There are so many hiking trails around I absolutely loved the little library they had. This last trip, we stayed in the primitive site and loved being next to a little creek. There is no wifi and no cell phone reception," explains Mary D.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "My daughter (9 yrs) brought her bike and was able to ride all around the camp site & have a blast," shares Liz A. about Windrock Park.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences. "Make sure to stop and look at the cabins and church. History at its finest," advises Buck R. about Cades Cove.
Swimming options: Crossville I-40 KOA offers family swimming. "A Beautiful campsite, a ton of activities for the grandkids, lots of amenities... We had a great view of one of the ponds, and nice lawn on each side and behind us," writes Todd L.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Some campgrounds require blocking equipment. "Our pull thru site 60 was directly across from the pool and playground. We stayed for the night in 28ft travel trailer without unhooking on a wonderfully level site," notes ShelleyCooksey about Sweetwater KOA.
Hookup locations: Check utility placement before setting up. "At our particular sight the sewer was toward the front of the sight but I had enough hose to get to it," reports Tanner H. about Caney Creek RV Resort.
Road access limitations: Some glamping spots close to Kingston have restricted access. "Road leading in is VERY narrow, don't know how two rigs could pass each other. Get a patio site if you can, they're very nice," advises Gary G.
