Camping near Limestone, Tennessee features riverside campsites along the Nolichucky River, offering opportunities for water recreation and mountain hiking. The region's elevation ranges from 1,400 to 3,000 feet, creating temperature variations between valley campgrounds and mountain sites. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from spring through fall, with limited winter facilities.
What to do
Whitewater adventures: At Nolichucky Gorge Campground, campers can experience the river directly from their sites. "It was awesome when we kayaked and took out at our site. Definitely will return," notes Emma T. The campground offers tubing opportunities with "a little path you can take a tube up and float back down," according to Kara P.
Historical exploration: Davy Crockett's birthplace provides educational opportunities for history enthusiasts. "There is a heritage village and museum that you can walk or drive through with reenactors on site," explains Anna R. The replica farm tours add historical context to camping trips, with "a sweet man who gives tours of the replica farm of David Crockett... in character and costume," according to Rebecca M.
Mountain hiking: Rock Creek Recreation Area offers various trail options. "There is a nice, but fairly strenuous 4 mile up and back trail from the campground to Rock Creek Falls," reports Ray & Terri F. The area features "beautiful old growth forest" with "great hiking trails here, plus some rock climbing/bouldering," according to Lynn G.
What campers like
River proximity: Riverpark Campground sites are positioned directly beside the Nolichucky. "The riverfront spaces are amazing and just inches away from the Nolichucky River. If you love to fish or kayak this is a great location," writes Carissa D. The riverside setting creates natural white noise, as Scott T. notes, "the constant and reassuring sound of the rapids was enough to drone out our children's whine."
Natural swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature natural swimming options. Rock Creek Recreation Area includes "a mountain stream running through the campground that has been dammed up to make a swimming hole that is quite large," though Robert L. cautions that "water is very chilly even in late July." The natural setting provides alternatives to artificial pools.
Clean facilities: Baileyton KOA Holiday receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Hands down the best KOA we've camped. Super clean," states Kevin R. Another camper described the facilities as "very clean and tidy campground. Mostly level, gravel sites. But some grass between sites! Some shade," according to Joel R.
What you should know
Site selection challenges: Warriors' Path State Park sites vary significantly in size and terrain. "Pay attention to the site size as some RVs had issues getting their larger RVs in their sites with the road/site layout," warns Jennifer H. Another camper noted, "several of the sites were too small for even our pop up camper, no way an RV can fit. You really need to scout the sites beforehand," according to Kate S.
Seasonal considerations: Water temperatures remain cold year-round in mountain streams. At Horse Creek Recreation Area, there's "a swim hole but, cold water," notes Sheree N. Campgrounds with river access may experience flooding, as Carissa D. cautions about Riverpark: "Do check the output of the river because this campground will flood."
Site access varies: Some campgrounds require equipment hauling rather than drive-up access. Horse Creek Recreation Area has limited vehicle access, as Jeff B. explains: "To be clear, there is only one site that you can drive to. When it says the sites are 'walk-in', it does not mean you can drive near your site and walk over into it. It means you have to park in a parking lot and haul your stuff up to 200 or 300 yards away along a trail over bridge."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. Warriors' Path State Park includes "a Boundless Playground" according to Natalie A., while Davy Crockett Birthplace offers family-focused amenities. "Playground is great and was perfect for our girl scout trip," shares Rebecca M.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites engage children while camping. "Lots of pull through spaces for larger campers and small ones as well. Beautiful view of Nolichucky River. Large swimming pool, TONS of historical events around, hiking & river walks," explains Cindy O. about Davy Crockett Birthplace.
Weekend activities: Hot Springs Campground offers family recreation within walking distance. "Walk into town for restaurants and brews! Walk to spa for soak in hot tub!!" notes Roxanne R. Baileyton KOA organizes "weekend activities for the kids. You won't want to miss out on the outdoor movie nights either!" according to Ken G.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at many area campgrounds. At Rock Creek Recreation Area, "Sites are levelish, semi-private, and wooded. Loop B has power poles at each site," according to Ashley B. Another camper noted, "Sites are heavily wooded, fairly well spaced, and most sites have a level area, but you have to back all the way in to get level on some."
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies widely across campgrounds. At Rock Creek Recreation Area, "OTA TV was limited to 4 channels(PBS) with our omni antenna. There is no WiFi. AT&T had 1 bar and 0.8 MB/s w/o a booster, 2 bars and 2.4 MB/s with it," according to Ray & Terri F. Plan accordingly if you require reliable internet access.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. Riverpark Campground provides full hookups, but accessibility may be a concern for larger rigs. As one camper noted about the general area, "The road in is a little narrow, but well maintained and easily navigable."
