RV camping near Knoxville, Tennessee offers access to both mountain adventures and water recreation at Fort Loudon Lake. The region features rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 850 to 1,200 feet, creating varied camping experiences between valley locations and ridge-top sites. Weather conditions change quickly in the Smoky Mountain foothills, with summer temperatures commonly reaching 90°F while dropping into the 50s during spring and fall evenings.
What to do
Tubing and swimming at Little River: Tent sites at Little River Campground & RV Resort provide direct access to the water. "You're allowed to swim, play, tube, etc. in the river at your own risk," notes Lisa C., who appreciates that some sites are "literally on the bank of the river."
Visit Dandridge and Douglas Lake: The mountain views from Anchor Down RV Resort provide a scenic base for lake activities. "The beach area they've constructed on the lake is INSANE! So so nice! There's a giant blow up slide leading into the lake," shares Becca O., highlighting one of the unique amenities.
Take the trolley into Pigeon Forge: Several campgrounds offer convenient transportation options. "Trolley stop directly by office so no need to drive down into Pigeon Forge," mentions Lisa S., explaining how Riveredge RV Park makes accessing local attractions easier without fighting traffic.
What campers like
Private creekside sites: Many visitors appreciate waterfront camping options. "We loved the quiet kicked back vibe that this place offers," says Shannon P. about Dumplin Valley Farm RV Park, where sites offer "lovely views" according to multiple reviewers.
Exceptionally clean bathhouses: Bathroom cleanliness rates highly among camper concerns. "The bathhouse is seriously impressive and is, by far, the nicest campground bathhouse I've ever used!" exclaims one Little River Campground visitor, adding "the bathrooms have strong AC pumping right into each bathroom, making everything nice and cool when you come in from the hot campsite."
Seasonal activities: October camping brings special experiences at some locations. "Every Saturday in October, campers decorate their site and hand out candy to the costumed campers! My kids LOVED that," explains Becca O., describing how Anchor Down creates seasonal traditions.
What you should know
Peak season availability: Reservations become difficult during certain periods. "It is so hard to get a reservation here, so we decided to take what we could get so we could try it out!" reports Beth H. about Anchor Down RV Resort, suggesting a helpful strategy: "Call and put your name on a waiting list for the dates you need. If they have cancellations, they call the people on the list instead of releasing the dates on the website!"
Site positioning challenges: Some layouts require advanced planning. "Sites are close together, but I've stayed in closer, so it wasn't that big of a deal," notes one reviewer about Little River Campground, while another warns, "The spots along the fence line are HORRIBLE! The road noise is awful" at a different location.
Internet connectivity variations: WiFi and cellular service change dramatically between campgrounds. "Wifi is free but not great. Verizon cell service was good enough at 3 bars the whole time," reports a camper at Little River, while others note complete dead zones in valley areas.
Tips for camping with families
Pool and splash pad access: Water features rank high for family campers. "Our son had a ball playing in the pool and splash pad. After hours we went to the arcade and played," shares Holly G. about Riveredge RV Park, highlighting the dual entertainment options.
Consider noise levels at different sites: Location within campgrounds affects the camping experience. "We picked the wrong time to go to PF/Gatlinberg. It was way too touristy for us," warns Ashley W. about Creekside RV Park, adding "Campsites were small/tight. Staff was extremely nice."
Look for campgrounds with Halloween events: Fall camping brings special traditions. "We have already booked for this next October and plan to make it a tradition!" shares one family about the Halloween activities at Anchor Down, where many sites feature elaborate decorations and trick-or-treating opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Verify hookup placement: Site configurations vary significantly between campgrounds. "The camper across the street from my site had to move his truck so that I could get enough angle to back into my site," explains Eric S. at Creekside RV Park, highlighting the importance of understanding site layout before arrival.
Consider interstate proximity for overnight stops: Quick access matters for travelers. "Easy on off interstate, far enough away not much road noise. Pretty average but does have a reasonable fenced dog run," notes Carrie G. about Escapees Raccoon Valley RV Park, which caters to those passing through the Knoxville area.
Premium sites offer enhanced experiences: Upgraded sites provide additional amenities. "Each site is clean and roomy with private fire pit. The premium sites have custom fireplaces and the views are gorgeous," explains Betheny about Anchor Down, demonstrating how site selection affects the overall camping experience.
