249 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Laurel Bloomery, Tennessee and the surrounding area feature a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed camping options throughout the Cherokee and Jefferson National Forests. Campgrounds like Backbone Rock Recreation Area Pavilions offer tent and RV sites with amenities including drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Washington & Jefferson National Forest provides dispersed camping areas along Bear Creek for those seeking more primitive experiences. The region includes both full-service campgrounds with electric hookups and water as well as undeveloped sites in forested areas, offering a range of accommodation options from tent camping to cabins and yurts.
The mountainous terrain creates varying road conditions that can impact campground access, particularly for larger RVs and trailers. Most developed campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically from April through October, with limited winter availability. While some sites offer advance reservations, others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Cell service can be limited or non-existent in more remote areas, particularly in the national forest dispersed camping zones. Higher elevation campgrounds provide cooler temperatures during summer months but may close earlier in the fall. A visitor commented that "the campground is in a nice secluded area that can be very silent and relaxing. The road up is good but extremely tight and windy at points so beware a wide trailer if you aren't used to this type of mountain driving."
Campers frequently mention the abundant recreational opportunities surrounding Laurel Bloomery area campgrounds, including access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and scenic mountain views. Sites along creeks and rivers receive particularly positive reviews, with many visitors appreciating the soothing sound of running water. Several campgrounds provide convenient access to popular trails like the Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail, making them excellent basecamps for outdoor adventures. One camper shared that "At the intersection of the North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia state lines, sits this national forest which offers multiple dispersed camping areas along Bear Creek. Opportunities for hiking, cycling, fishing, and paddling are abundant." Visitors should note that some of the more primitive camping areas lack facilities like trash collection, requiring proper preparation and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.
"With camping just a moderate day hike away from Mount Rogers, the highest point in Virginia, this campground is a hiker's paradise."
"Campground Review: There are two campgrounds in Grayson Highland SP which is located by The Mouth Of Wilson, VA, near the North Carolina border."
from $27 - $98 / night
Check Availability"Woodsy sites, access to hiking trails. Spacious camp sites with all the amenities."
"We like to hike and there are TONS of trails in this area. One trail leaves directly from the campground and will bring you to the top of Mt. Rogers, also intersecting with the Appalachian Trail."
from $24 - $36 / night
Check Availability"Large secluded campsites surrounded by rhododendron bushes with a mountain spring creek meandering through the campgrounds."
"We use the lake for paddle boarding or kayaking and we bike on the Va Creeper trail, the local mountain bike and hiking trails adjacent to the campground or just bike down to the lake and back."
from $55 / night
Check Availability"This campground is located about an hour or so from our home but it feels like a million miles away — in a good way!"
"**Holston Lake is absolutely beautiful. The campground is deep in the national forest, out on a series of peninsulas, making all the campsites quite close to the water."
from $12 / night
Check Availability"Stayed in Campsite #1 Even though it is within view of the road, the running water sound of the creek behind us lulled us to sleep."
"Beaver Dam Creek runs behind the campsite and is absolutely gorgeous with clear water, fish, and beautiful rhododendrons and trees that keep the area shaded."
from $10 - $20 / night
Check Availability"It offers RV, drive in and hike in tent sites and also teepee camping."
"There is a place to wash dishes outside as well. Fantastic walking trails - some parts quite steep but we got a good workout through the woods on the property."
from $25 - $136 / night
Check Availability"At the intersection of the North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia state lines, sits this national forest which offers multiple dispersed camping areas along Bear Creek."
"Only downside was the spot I set up camp was very close to the road and headlights from passing cars would light up the spot. However the road was quiet most of the night."
"30 minute drive to Grayson Highlands"
"They just reworked the rd so it was an easy drive in our class c rv"
"We were in Damascus for the Appalachian Trail Days Festival and needed an RV spot but didn’t think we could get one because we were so late in looking for one."
"This was a good spot right on the Laurel Creek and the Creeper Trail. Walk to town for restaurants and bike/outdoor shops and a convenience store. Grocery store is a little further away."
from $55 / night
Check Availability"In the nearby area, there is a lot to do in natural beauty. There are a lot of trails here and many ways to enjoy them, including hiking and mountain biking."
"Campground Review: R&D Campground in Mountain City, TN is located in the far north east corner of the state almost directly in between Boone, NC and Demascus, VA."
ScoutWe arrived and easily got to our spot. There’s a river just behind our spot and only a handful of RVs and cabins. Our GPS wanted us to pass the turn to the campground, we had to make a U turn to get in…. Of course, on the second approach we saw the entrance signs (my bad). It looks like it is best to approach from the west (Hampton?), it was a sharp turn entering from the east (Roan Mountain). We settled in and got to relaxing quickly.
GuideIt was a long day of travel for me anyways. I arrived around 17:15 and the ranger was nowhere to be seen. Honor system was full out the form and pay cash before you go find your site.
This place is better for tent campers and those with rigs 20ft and under. Our 30ft bumper-pull was no match for the narrow sites due to trees. Most sites were not level either. As advertised, no sewer hook-up, and bring at least a 50ft hose for water…better yet, bring a 100ft hose and an additional splitter. The birds were nice to hear. It was quiet throughout the night also, mainly because there were only about 10 campers in the whole park (it holds about 78).
The bathhouses were clean and bright; but only shower curtains for doors on the toilets—reminded me of my deployment to Afghanistan.
Fuel…the hill to get in and out of the park is very steep! And if you spend time trying to fit your rig into any site you might think you can fit into but can’t, you’re going to need enough fuel to make it to the next gas station! If your rig is longer than 30ft and it’s not a 5th wheel, look elsewhere.
Personally, I won’t be stopping here again. The overall park was nice; but for $20/night, it wasn’t worth the stress.
GuideDoe River Landing is a small, delightful RV and cabin camping park that sits on the banks of the Doe River in the Roan Mountain valley of TN. We enjoyed our stay enough that we extended a few extra days. Five shaded, landscaped RV sites offering water/electric are located about 20 yards from the river’s edge. An additional site offers a fully-outfitted rental RV. Sites are pea gravel and mostly level. Luxury rental cabins(5) are available along with a truly awesome rental pavilion outfitted for larger group gatherings. The friendly hosts live in a home nearby and were around daily during our stay.
For a small family campground the amenities are super nice. The top-notch children’s playground and toy shed obviously delighted guest’s children. Wi-Fi signal is strong enough for streaming. Nice, clean bathhouse. Public grills are available. Hiking trails meander along the river and up through their woods.
There are few places we enjoy more than the Roan Mountain area for camping. The location is fantastic and even peak summer temperatures are usually comfortable. Roan Mountain State Park is minutes away for hiking and a slew of activities, while the top of Roan Mountain houses the famous wild Rhododendron Gardens. The AT and multiple hiking trails run along the top of the mountain.
There were only a few considerations with this venue.
The sites are mostly level although we needed two OxBlocks in each of the sites we stayed in. One needed leveling front-to-back, the other side-to-side. When Hurricane Helene scoured the area it likely left some dips in the parking pads.
The bathhouse contains one toilet and shower, both housed in the same room which can tie them up for long periods.
3) There may be some day and night traffic noise as large trucks involved in repairs from Hurricane Helene are still active.
The approach is rather challenging. New lighted signage helps identify where their single-lane entrance road takes a HARD fork off US-19E. Be sure to check the Directions tab on their website. If you are arriving from the north (through Elizabethton) you will be able to pull directly onto Bob Ray Rd.(entrance to the right of the little Bible church). Approaching from the south on US-19E is more difficult. Bob Ray Rd basically runs parallel to US-19E which requires essentially a U-turn across 2-3 lanes to accomplish. The host suggests turning through the closed fruit stand parking lot(on the left within sight of the entrance) but we weren’t sure about it given on-coming traffic. We elected to drive~ 2 miles further down 19E and U-turn across the left shoulder.
Bob Ray Rd is a single-lane road. Based on timing for check-in/check-out you are unlikely to meet another RV coming at you(thankfully!)
Multiple choices for food in the area. The Whiteway Grill– less than 5 minutes away- offers fabulous breakfasts. Smoky Mountain Bakers is beyond awesome! Wood-fired pizza for dinner and breakfast plates from simple sandwiches to breakfast burritos, pancakes and French toast. We find excuses to eat here during the week. Every meal we’ve had at Puerto Escondido Mexican restaurant was huge(as in leftovers) and tasty.
TravelerThe lake is so beautiful if you catch it at the right time of day it’s like l looking into a mirror dimension because it’s so clear.
TravelerI camped on Forest Road 982. There were quite a few people camping along this road, but I found a really good spot by the large creek. The campsites are pretty far from each other so the privacy is good. I stayed one night. Will definitely go back.
TravelerBeautiful decor and extremely clean interior. The bed is very comfortable and linens are crisp and inviting. You can tell they don't harsh products because your skin is not itchy. The kitchen accommodations are perfect for a family with refrigerator, microwave and gas grill included with every cabin. The jacuzzi tub is a nice touch. Plenty of towels and even robes to use!
The rocking chairs on the back porch allow you to sip coffee, while watching trout swim in Chestnut Creek. The exteriors are clean as well. The grounds are natural and well maintained. There is also a nice common area with chairs and a firepit with wood to use.
The staff was pleasant and helpful.
We went to the local movie theater and a splash pad and park for the kids in town. The downtown 4th of July parade was wonderful! We rode the Blue Ridge Parkway which is very close by and enjoyed live music at the Blue Ridge Music Center. The cabins are about 30 minutes to Mt. Airy (Mayberry). Local antiques, coffee shops, specialty stores are abundant. Car Shiws on Thursday monthly downtown and BINGO at the Moose Lodge here in Galax is the best which is on Tuesdays. If you are an antique lover or picker don't miss my favorites, many in downtown Galax and a couple coffee shops and make sure you go to "Nest and Hive" in Fancy Gap and "The River House And Home Company" in Hillsville. You won't regret it!
I've been coming here for 20 years and will 20 more. The mountains are calling!
ScoutThe owner was super nice and gave us all the info we needed! Very close to the falls to swim at and hike to (wear hiking shoes to get to the falls) over all great quiet little campground!
ScoutThis campground is not 420 friendly! It’s Tn where MJ is illegal. We have RX but we were harassed non stop. One day the owner said to smoke by River, next day somewhere else! Owner also would snoop around my camper to upset my Belgian Mal. We spent a miserable summer here May-Nov. Never again! All was ok until we set up!
TravelerPlace seams tidy. Spots are nicely appointed, in that they are slightly separated.
Campsites near Laurel Bloomery, Tennessee sit at elevations between 2,500-4,000 feet, creating microclimate camping conditions that average 10-15°F cooler than surrounding lowland areas. The region's location at the convergence of the Cherokee and Jefferson National Forests provides access to over 1.8 million acres of protected woodland. Fall campers experience vibrant autumn colors from mid-October through early November, with peak foliage typically occurring during the third week of October.
Hiking to waterfall destinations: Access the Cabin Trail near Grindstone Recreation Area for a moderately difficult 1.5-mile trail to a waterfall. "There is a .6 mile trail nearby (Whispering Waters Trail) which is good for beginners & small kids. There is another trail, Mt. Rogers which is longer (7 miles) from the campsite," notes Robert R.
Paddling on South Holston Lake: Launch from Little Oak Campground for kayaking and paddleboarding on calm morning waters. "Little oak offered a great place to stay for a week. With south Holston lake at your finger tips it offers a great area to fish, boat, kayak, paddle board and swim," shares Jayme G.
Mountain biking trails: Ride portions of the Virginia Creeper Trail starting from Damascus, about 20 minutes from Laurel Bloomery. "One of my favorite places to go!! Doesn't get much more relaxing, electric, water hook-ups and a short drive to downtown Damascus VA.. AT, Virginia Creeper, White Top Mountain and Mount Rogers all near by," writes Jeff D. about R&D Campground.
Creekside swimming: Find natural swimming holes behind Backbone Rock Recreation Area sites. "Backbone rock sits on a small creek that runs behind most of the sites. It's perfect for small children to swim and play in! The sites are all gracious in size, with plenty of trees in between," explains Sabrina M.
Cooler summer temperatures: The higher elevation campgrounds provide natural air conditioning during hot months. "The elevation is high so weather is nice for those trying to escape the summer heat," comments Kristen J. about Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds feature natural barriers between camping spots. "The sites were built in a forest of rhododendron and there is so much privacy compared to most other campgrounds. As a result, it seems quieter," shares Deb R. about Jefferson National Forest Beartree Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Trout fishing is available in multiple streams and lakes throughout the region. "We caught a trout in the pond right away," reports Kristen J. from Blue Bear Mountain Camp, while Van M. from Little Oak Campground recommends you "swim at sunset when the boats go quiet."
Night sky viewing: The area's limited light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "I was very much hoping to take photos of the night sky, but there was a storm with wild winds and cold, so that didn't happen! I did catch a glimpse of them, though, shortly before dawn," explains Jean C. from Hickory Ridge Campground.
Limited cell service: Prepare for minimal connectivity in most camping areas. "You are truly away at Beartree. Do not expect to be 'plugged in' unless you have satellite connection," advises Deb R. about Jefferson National Forest Beartree Campground.
Weather variability: Mountain weather can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. "Grayson Highlands is a must-do for all campers, hikers, and adventurers. Hit the trails to see some wild ponies and scenic balds. Weather is unpredictable, so pack a raincoat and warm clothes just in case," suggests danielle H. from Hickory Ridge Campground.
Campground reservation timing: Many popular sites fill quickly during peak season. "I was there the first day the campground opened and it filled quickly. You'll definitely want reservations for a weekend stay," notes Jean C. from Hickory Ridge Campground.
Primitive facilities: Some dispersed sites lack basic amenities. "There is no drinking water, picnic tables, or even pit toilet, so come prepared. The only major problem is that folks tend to leave a ton of trash around, so we often spend about 20-30 minutes cleaning these sites upon arrival," explains Shari G. about Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites.
Select sites with water features: Children enjoy playing in safe, shallow creek areas. "Backbone rock sits on a small creek that runs behind most of the sites. It's perfect for small children to swim and play in! The sites are all gracious in size, with plenty of trees in between," suggests Sabrina M. from Backbone Rock Recreation Area.
Visit the wild ponies: Plan a day trip to Grayson Highlands to see the famous wild ponies. "Great hikes close by with sweet wild ponies that let you get close for pictures. Bathrooms were clean and there was a nice area for a picnic with swings and other things for kids," shares Julianne S. from Hickory Ridge Campground.
Consider less-crowded campgrounds: Smaller campgrounds often provide a more family-friendly atmosphere. "We love this campground because it is a hybrid between the remote camping we are use to and the ease of effort we now need because of small children! With just 11 sites, the campground chaos is kept to a minimal," notes Sabrina M. about Backbone Rock Recreation Area.
Elevation and road access: Mountain roads can challenge larger rigs. "The campground is in a nice secluded area that can be very silent and relaxing. The road up is good but extremely tight and windy at points so beware a wide trailer if you aren't used to this type of mountain driving," notes a visitor to the area.
Water access planning: Many campgrounds have limited water hookups. "They do not have water hookups- you fill your camper tank with water at the office area. They have spots with electric hookups. They have a dump station where you can empty your tanks on your way out," explains Mandy R. from Blue Bear Mountain Camp.
Generator restrictions: Check campground policies before arrival. "Would not recommend for any vehicle larger than 20 feet as the potholed road and the tight turns to get up to the camp from the road would be tough. 4WD highly recommended, especially in mud season or winter," advises Shari G. about Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping activities are available in Laurel Bloomery, Tennessee?
Laurel Bloomery offers diverse outdoor recreation opportunities. At Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites, you can enjoy hiking, cycling, fishing, and paddling along Bear Creek. The area provides access to the Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail. For water enthusiasts, Roan Creek Campground offers creek-side camping with easy access to off-road adventures in the Smoky Mountains. The region also features historical towns to explore, mountain summits with panoramic views, and abundant fishing opportunities in the local waterways.
How do I get to Laurel Bloomery from nearby cities?
From Johnson City, take I-26 E toward Erwin, then follow US-19E and TN-91 N to Laurel Bloomery (approximately 1 hour). From Boone, NC, head northwest on US-421 N, then take NC-194 N to Laurel Bloomery (about 45 minutes). Elk Knob State Park Campground is just north of Boone near the Tennessee state line, making it a good reference point. The drive to Little Oak Campground involves a scenic 7-mile trek off the main road, typical of the winding mountain routes in this region.
What are the best seasons to visit Laurel Bloomery for camping?
Late spring through early fall offers the most pleasant camping conditions in Laurel Bloomery. May through September provides warm days and cool nights ideal for outdoor activities. Fall is particularly spectacular with vibrant foliage, especially at Grandfather Campground, which serves as an excellent base for autumn exploration. While Warriors' Path State Park is accessible year-round, early May offers a chance to enjoy the area with fewer crowds. Winter camping is possible but prepare for cold temperatures, as the mountain elevation brings chilly conditions from December through March.
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