3 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Lakefront Glamping Resort on Cherokee Lake features four canvas safari tents nestled in the woods and a cozy Micro A-Frame cabin with king bed, providing luxury accommodations with panoramic lake views and private fire pits. The safari tents offer a choice of king or queen beds, while the A-Frame cabin includes modern amenities like electricity, a dorm refrigerator, and coffee maker. "The A-Frame is cozy with the bed taking up 95% of the space, and one of the nicest features is the window side that faces the lake can be opened, making it an open-air accommodation," noted one visitor. Other glamping options near Rutledge include Glamping on the Clinch River LLC, which offers yurt accommodations with electric hookups, picnic tables, and access to showers and toilets, all situated on a scenic riverfront property.
Guests at Cherokee Lake's glamping resort can enjoy water activities through various Stay packages that include SUP boards, kayak rentals, and lake excursions. A recently completed bathhouse provides two toilets, two sinks, and outdoor showers with towels provided. Lakeside Getaway on Douglas, another nearby option, sits directly on Douglas Lake with access to paddlesport launches and a dock. A visitor commented, "I picked this site because it met my criteria for quick tent camping. The hosts were really great and what they've done with the campsite is amazing. The views of the lake were amazing." GlampKnox, located between downtown Knoxville and the Great Smoky Mountains, offers a safari tent with wood-burning stove for year-round comfort, covered porch with rocking chairs, and a one-mile hiking trail on the property, combining luxury accommodations with rural Tennessee beauty.
"Nice paved sites with fire pits. We did wish the sites had a curb or some sort at the back of the paved area as it’s a drop off beyond the site. Clean restrooms."
"Close to the bathhouse and a quick walk to the entrance to get to the store, swim area, etc."
Available this weekend
"The only bad part was the non quiet hours- so It was loud at night. But the campsites are far apart, easy walking distance to bathrooms."
"There are no hook ups for electric and sewer here, nor are their showers."
Available this weekend
from $30 / night
"But what makes this place even more special is the incredible family behind it. Bonnie and Rusty are truly two of the sweetest, most generous, and kindhearted people you could ever meet!"
"Glamping on the Clinch River offers a relaxing getaway surrounded by rivers and waterfalls in northern Tennessee. Check them out and make sure to leave a review on the Dyrt!"
from $30 - $150 / night
"Dog park, laundry."
"Really friendly staff. Nicely stocked store. Clean and large laundry room with TV. We loved the lazy river in the pool. Our site was concrete and level but as with most KOAs not cheap."
"Stayed at a premium lakeshore site on Norris Lake. Advertised as a pull through, but that must be for travel trailers, as I have an RV."
"Loyston Point is a really nice campground right on Norri Lake. There is not a bad site in the whole campground. Most sites have a lake view and the ones that don't are heavily wooded and spacious."
"Our oldest rented a bell tent, and when I say they are the cutest camping spot, I am not exaggerating. The bell tents sit on the river and away from all the RV sites."
"We stayed 3 nights in the Baby Bear bell tent with our small children and it was perfect. We ended up arriving later than expected and the hosts were wonderful. Very nice and helpful our whole stay."
from $35 - $258 / night
"We were impressed with the paved parking space, picnic table, fire pit and level tent pad. It looks like these are very new. Proximity to cades cove loop was great."
"The one lane, one way, circular drive around Cades Cover is scenic but can get very crowded and cars will stop for any wildlife, go early..."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $30 / night
"The Lakeside Getaway on Douglas is new to the Dyrt but has an amazing location to share with everyone, they have glamping tents but also spots for car camping by the river. "
"Very quiet, secluded and private. I have been out there several times and enjoy it every time. Great people and family."
from $35 - $100 / night
"Open May-September, this property is located on Cherokee Lake. There are four glamping tents (two with king beds and two with queen beds) and the newest addition is a Micro A-Frame with a king bed."
"Open May-September, this property is located on Cherokee Lake. There are four glamping tents (two with king beds and two with queen beds) and the newest addition is a Micro A-Frame with a king bed."
from $149 - $299 / night
"This spot is new, and the set up is awesome. Perched on top of a hill, the site has great sunrise views."
"This spot is new, and the set up is awesome. Perched on top of a hill, the site has great sunrise views."
from $75 - $175 / night
TravelerBeautiful spot in the smoky mountains. State park style amenities, no showers. No hookups. Very busy very open campground. Nice that some trails are walking distance from campground. I would not camp here again as I prefer more separation and privacy. No cell service. STARLINK is usable but obstructed with tree canopy
Traveler✨ I honestly cannot say enough wonderful things about our stay at Glamping on the Clinch River!❤️ It was truly one of the most relaxing, beautiful experiences, and waking up to such a breathtaking piece of God’s creation was something special that I will never forget. The views are absolutely stunning, the peacefulness is unmatched, and it’s the perfect place to slow down, breathe, and appreciate the beauty God has blessed us with.🙏🏻🤍 But what makes this place even more special is the incredible family behind it. Bonnie and Rusty are truly two of the sweetest, most generous, and kindhearted people you could ever meet! Their hospitality goes above and beyond, and you can feel the love they put into making sure every guest has the most wonderful experience. From preparing breakfast for their guests to the thoughtful little touches like making s’mores around the outdoor campfire, they make you feel so welcomed and cared for.❤️🔥 The tipi itself was absolutely beautiful, exceptionally clean, and decorated so thoughtfully to create the perfect glamping experience. Every detail made our stay feel cozy, comfortable, and magical while still allowing us to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.🏕️✨ Places like this are a reminder that sometimes the best experiences aren’t about fancy hotels or extravagant vacations. They’re about beautiful surroundings, genuine kindness, peaceful moments, and the wonderful people who make you feel right at home. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway surrounded by God’s beautiful creation and hosted by people with truly golden hearts, you NEED to experience Glamping on the Clinch River! I would recommend it a thousand times over, and we are so grateful we had the opportunity to stay here. Bonnie and Rusty, thank you for sharing your beautiful place with others and for making our experience so incredibly special. You two are such a blessing!❤️🙏🏻 We will absolutely cherish these memories and hope to be back again soon!🌿🤍✨
TravelerThis worked well for us while we were visiting Dollywood in our trailer, but we wouldn't stay here if we had been in a different type of site. Cons: Unless you have a site up against the river or on patriot park, you are packed in VERY TIGHT with other people, sometimes with your sliders only a foot or two away from your neighbor's sliders. We were in a site that was "on patriot park", but the few first sites of that type are really just behind the trolley parking lot and pick up with a path behind you (including ours). People are on the other side of the fence walking about two feet behind you all day and pretty late in to the night. Pros: There are lot of trees and campground is very pretty. Super close to Dollywood and other Pigeon Forge points of interest.
GuideWe really enjoyed our stay at Gateway RV Campground! After spending plenty of time on the road, it’s always nice to find somewhere you can park up, relax, and feel at home.
The campground has a lovely, relaxed atmosphere and was a great place to unwind.
One of the real bonuses is the trolley that stops right outside the campground office. What a fantastic convenience! It makes getting out and exploring the local area so much easier without having to pack everything up and take the RV. Such a simple touch, but one that makes a big difference when you’re traveling.
We’ve stayed at plenty of RV parks during our travels, and it’s often the little things that make a place stand out.
All in all, a very enjoyable stay, and we’d happily return if we’re passing through the area again. Definitely worth a stop!
ScoutDog park, laundry. Showers,come by pick up trash, have lawn chairs, outdoor sports item to rent, have over flow area to park extra vehicles, lot size ample for extra large trailers or tents cabins to rent popular places to eat or shop in walking distances had arts and craft show going that was going to be there a month kept clean water walk with duck's
ScoutWe’ve been coming at this campground for 13 years and it is always an enjoyable experience. The past owners, Barry and Chong, have turned over the day to day management to their son and daughter-in-law. They are so pleasant and accommodating. It is a small campground but drive thru spaces are big enough for big rigs. They keep the campground in immaculate condition…. Would give it 6 stars out of 5!
GuideGreat campsites, little closer together than what I like but still nice and shaded all paved. Have three dump stations that are very nice. Will definitely come back. Better have reservations, cause it does stay full.
ScoutCampground is not big which is a plus. Couple miles off the highway so not a lot of traffic noise. Camp store is fully stocked. However the food at the snack shack not so good. Playground and pool are very small compared to other KOA properties. A lot of full time campers which is not a bad thing but leaves very little room for folks just passing through.
GuideWe’re heading down to Florida and this was along our route. Our site was right next to the lake. Quiet and very peaceful until 7am lol! People get going right away lol!
Camping opportunities near Rutledge, Tennessee center around Cherokee Lake, the Clinch River, and nearby mountain terrain. The area sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation with humid summers reaching into the 90s and mild winters with occasional snow. Campers can access several water bodies including Cherokee Lake's 400 miles of shoreline, offering diverse accommodations from primitive tent sites to upscale glamping options.
Hiking trails: Big Ridge State Park Campground offers scenic trails for all skill levels. "I've stayed at this site a couple times now and I love the location. The site is a short and easy hike (under 2 miles) from the parking lot via the Lake Trail to the Dark Hollow Trail," notes one visitor who enjoyed the backcountry camping option.
Water activities: Lakeside Getaway on Douglas provides direct lake access with paddlesport launches. "There is a sitting area and a dock with paddle sport launches. There is a wash house with toilet and sink but no showers yet," explains a camper who appreciated the convenient waterfront location.
Historic sites: Elkmont Campground connects to the Daisy Town ghost town where you can explore historic vacation homes. "One of the more intriguing areas to explore at Elkmont is the Daisy Town ghost town. Some are open for exploration, others are cordoned off, and some are undergoing renovation," a camper notes about this unique feature.
Wildlife viewing: Cades Cove offers exceptional wildlife spotting opportunities along its scenic loop. "I have never seen more black bear. It was a very safe distance we watched them about a football field away across a field pretty amazing experience," reports one visitor who observed wildlife safely.
River access: Greenbrier Campground features sites backing directly to the Little Pigeon River. "The Little Pigeon River was just steps off the back of our camper. My kids enjoyed the swimming hike as well although the water was freezing," shares a visitor who appreciated the waterfront location.
Private bathroom facilities: Several campgrounds provide upgraded bathroom facilities. "The bath house appeared to be newer, and will trump your home facilities in many cases! Within the bath house, there are several private doors leading to your own 3 piece bath with shelving and granite counters with outlets, and a stunning double shower," notes one impressed camper.
Yurt camping: Glamping on the Clinch River LLC offers yurt accommodations for those seeking yurt camping near Rutledge, Tennessee. Yurt camping provides a comfortable middle ground between tent camping and cabin rentals, with electric hookups and access to shower facilities.
Seasonal activities: Big Ridge State Park hosts special seasonal events throughout the year. "The history of the area is interesting, and the lake is quite peaceful," remarks a visitor who enjoyed the natural surroundings and historical elements.
Tent site conditions: Not all campgrounds offer ideal tent camping surfaces. "The sites are small and close together. Not all of them have a suitable tent spot, and there were a lot of RVs. I wish there was a separate area for tents," explains a camper at Big Ridge State Park.
Off-season operation: Cades Cove Campground operates from March through October. "November is when the leaves are changing. Temps cool at night, moderately nice during the day...got snow at Clingman's Dome however during the day!" notes a visitor who camped during shoulder season.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly throughout the area. "Cell service wasn't great for me here, but then again in all the Smoky Mountains I cruised around with pretty much 1 bar or less," reports a camper who found connectivity challenging.
Bear safety requirements: Food storage regulations exist at most campgrounds. "It's bear country, so your food and toiletries need to be locked in a vehicle or hard-side camping unit; there are some food storage lockers provided for the walk-in sites," advises a visitor regarding mandatory safety measures.
Activity options: River Plantation RV Resort provides numerous family amenities. "Had a blast here! They have so much for the kids to do, full court basketball, tennis courts, battle ball, arcade room, and pool. Also next door to a ropes corse and close to pigeon forge," shares a parent who found the facility ideal for children.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming locations. "Great place to swim for the summer with the kids," notes a visitor to Big Ridge State Park who enjoyed the swimming facilities.
Bike rentals: Some locations offer bicycle rental services on site. "We rented bikes on site, perfect day. We also did longer hikes in the area. Stayed here for 4 days as a basecamp, just a great wooded site," shares a camper who appreciated the convenient rental options.
Noise considerations: Choose sites away from high-traffic areas for quieter family camping. "Despite being a very busy campground it was also very well maintained. Everything was in great condition from my table to the site itself, no stray weeds or anything," reports a visitor who found even busy locations could provide a quality experience.
Site dimensions: Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA offers various site sizes with different privacy levels. "Campground is full of RVs that you can hear humming constantly. Decent location next to a river that you can tube in. Not secluded at all, but clean," notes an RVer who stayed at this popular location.
Leveling requirements: Some sites require minimal adjustments for RVs. "Site 43. Big site, fairly flat. Just have levelers on one side. Close to the bathhouse and a quick walk to the entrance to get to the store, swim area, etc," shares a camper who found the site workable with minor adjustments.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in width and quality. "Roads are a little narrow in the campground, made it a little hard to back trailer in- the front of the truck was the issue hitting rocks on the side of the road," cautions an RV owner about navigation challenges.
Reservation timing: Book well ahead for yurt camping near Rutledge, Tennessee, especially during peak seasons. "Make your reservations far in advance this is a destination!" advises a visitor who planned ahead for their stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Rutledge, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Rutledge, TN is Big Ridge State Park Campground with a 3.6-star rating from 26 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Rutledge, TN?
TheDyrt.com has all 45 glamping camping locations near Rutledge, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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