Camping near Unicoi, Tennessee offers access to the Cherokee National Forest with elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with warm summers reaching the 80s and winter nights that can drop below freezing. Fall camping tends to book quickly due to peak foliage viewing from mid-October through early November.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: Rock Creek Recreation Area offers accessible trail options to local waterfalls. "The rock creek falls trail is great! This is a nice campground overall but the swimming area is a little rough and often crowded with a lot of locals. But the trails are beautiful and the campground is nice," notes Lauren M.
Fish in mountain waters: Roan Mountain State Park Campground provides fly fishing opportunities along the Doe River. Tracy D. shares, "Lovely camp, Doe River runs through so fly fishing is available. husband did catch a rainbow trout near group tent sites. Several small brookies near the history center."
Experience lake activities: Lakeside camping at Cardens Bluff Campground offers water recreation options. "Situated on a peninsula, Cardens Bluff has great views and access to the lake for the outer campsites. The interior campsites are nice as well, with vegetation giving enough privacy between campsites," says Blake E.
Explore mountain biking trails: Warriors' Path State Park features dedicated mountain biking routes. Tom B. notes, "I have spent a lot of time at the Park golfing, mountain biking, swimming, running, kayaking and picnicking but have never been into the campground area."
What campers like
Streamside sites: Many campers value riverside camping locations in the area. At Nolichucky Gorge Campground, Emma T. reports, "Loved this campground right along the river. It was awesome when we kayaked and took out at our site. Definitly will return."
Privacy between sites: Blackberry Blossom Farm & Campground provides well-spaced camping areas. Bird H. explains, "The campsites are far enough apart that I don't feel like I'm on top of other campers. There are less concerns about privacy than other places I've been. Each site has a picnic table and a clearly designated firepit."
Clean facilities: Riverpark Campground receives high marks for maintenance. According to Scott T., "We really enjoyed this campground. Its not a huge place which adds to the allure. The campground is located on an exciting section of the Nolichucky River about 10 minutes from Erwin, TN."
Access to the Appalachian Trail: Proximity to the AT draws hikers to the region. Ashley B. points out that Rock Creek Recreation Area offers a "Convenient location in the Cherokee National Forest that is close to the Appalachian Trail and the Nolichucky River."
What you should know
Limited water hookups: Some campgrounds have restricted water access points. Josh G. from Rock Creek Recreation Area warns, "Water hookups are scarce, there are three per loop. The camp host and rangers were very helpful and nice."
Variable cell service: Connectivity differs throughout the area. Ray & Terri F. mention at Rock Creek Recreation Area, "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."
Temperature variations: The higher elevation means cooler temperatures than surrounding areas. Josh G. notes, "The temperature is cooler than in Erwin."
Self-service check-in: Some campgrounds require self-registration. Catherine F. explains, "As far as campgrounds go, it wasn't bad. Just something is it's a self service check in which I didn't know."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground provides recreational facilities for children. Jedidiah J. shares, "Brought our family here for the end of spring break and had a blast. The kids loved riding thir bikes and scooters on the paved road through the park. My son and I enjoyed a round of disk golf while my wife and daughters made use of their awesome playground."
Consider swimming options: Several campgrounds offer natural swimming areas during summer months. According to Robert L., "There is a mountain stream running through the campground that has been dammed up to make a swimming hole that is quite large, not sure on depth as we didn't get in, but water is very chilly even in late July."
Look for historical attractions: Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground combines camping with educational opportunities. Rebecca M. recounts, "There's also a sweet man who gives tours of the replica farm of David Crocket.. in character and costume. Clean bathrooms. Overall a great place to camp, particularly with kids."
Pack for temperature changes: The mountains can experience significant day-to-night temperature swings. Alisha M. advises, "I drove up with no reservation and feared I wouldn't get a spot. But I lucked up. The grounds are very clean and the sites are nicely spaced out. If you can grab a spot by the little creek, I would."
Tips from RVers
Check site length carefully: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. At Woodsmoke Campground, Matt F. notes, "Quiet, wooded sites with full RV hook up. Nice large sites and private. This is a privately ran campground."
Bring leveling blocks: Uneven terrain is common throughout the region. Michelle I. from Warriors' Path State Park advises, "Really nice facility near town. There are a lot of uneven campsites, so bring your leveling blocks."
Look for pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites. Robert L. describes, "Tight turns, but manageable with our 40' Fifth Wheel. Relatively level parking. Spacious sites. 20-30-50 amp hookups available."
Check road conditions: Access roads can be challenging, especially after rain. Sara M. explains, "The main camping section was laid out long ago, with older style short sites and water/electric only. Many of the sites are narrow and some have challenging access. Be sure to read site descriptions and check the suggested trailer size- they seriously mean the max size!!"
