Camping sites near Lookout Mountain, Tennessee range from 700 to 2,400 feet in elevation, offering variable temperatures even during summer months. The region contains limestone formations that create unique camping environments with natural caves and rock features. Nights can drop 15-20 degrees cooler than daytime highs, particularly at higher elevation campgrounds.
What to do
Cave exploration: 30-minute guided tours at Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground take visitors through underground formations. "Crystal Cave was right on site and we enjoyed the guided tour. (Advanced reservations are required.)" notes one camper who appreciated the convenience of having attractions right at their campsite.
Disc golf: Free 9-hole course at Marion County Park offers riverside play with moderate terrain. "Beautiful amenities for things to do if active... disc golf, para course all right here," reports a camper who found plenty of recreational options without leaving the grounds.
Fishing: Early morning bass fishing at Prentice Cooper State Forest yields catches even for beginners. "Caught 4 largemouth bass in about 15 minutes of fishing on the pond, largest being about a 1lb," shares a camper who enjoyed the quiet fishing opportunities at Davis Pond within the forest.
What campers like
Private bathrooms: Lookout Mountain-Chattanooga West KOA offers individual bathroom units. "Bathrooms/showers are very nice…each guest gets a private room with shower, sink and toilet," notes a repeat visitor who appreciated the privacy compared to traditional communal facilities.
Waterfront access: Harrison Bay State Park Campground features sites with direct water access. "I saw some campers in fishing kayaks come right up to the shore and hop out at their campsite," reports a visitor who was impressed by the convenience for water enthusiasts.
Quiet seclusion: Some primitive sites offer complete separation from other campers. "If you want to stay at davis pond you have to get there before dark, and there is not access for vehicles to get into the campground so it's just tents," explains a camper who found the extra effort worthwhile for privacy.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many dispersed camping areas restrict access during winter. "Very important reminder - This is a beautiful WMA area with tons of offshoots along a service road for camping, but please note, 99% of areas are closed between December and March," warns a visitor to Prentice Cooper State Forest.
Drainage issues: Several campgrounds struggle with standing water after rainfall. "Would most likely stay again, but would ask for a site with no standing water. Major drainage problem," cautions a camper who encountered flooded sites at Holiday Travel Park.
Highway noise: Roadside locations can be noisy despite natural settings. "If you are a light sleeper, the traffic noise from the highway might be disturbing," mentions a tent camper who stayed at Marion County Park along the riverside.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground offers various accommodations for different family needs. "There are 16 cottages/cabins, and Georgia State Park cabins really cannot be overstated; they are well appointed, well maintained, and absolutely beautiful," writes a camper who found them perfect for families wanting adventure by day with comforts at night.
Swimming options: Several parks offer dedicated swimming areas with beach access. "Kids wonderland! This place is definitely somewhere you wanna bring your kids they would love it! There is a man made beach with a playground and loads of camping lots next to the river!" exclaims a family visitor to Chester Frost Park.
Site selection for privacy: Request sites away from main roads and facilities if traveling with children. "Sites 4-9 are well spaced from each other and great for tent campers and families who want their kids to have room to play, and while site 37 does not have as much privacy being in the center of the loop, it does have one of the most perfect climbing trees I have ever seen in a public campground."
Tips from RVers
Level site recommendations: Request specific sites when booking RV spots. "The spots are very spacious and very easily accessible," notes a camper about pull-through sites at Marion County Park, making them suitable for larger rigs.
Check elevation change: Some campgrounds have steep access roads that challenge larger vehicles. "The last couple of miles had me a little worried w/my big rig but it went very well. The road is nicely paved and the trees are cut back. No major curves or turns. Plenty of room," reports an RVer at Lookout Mountain-Chattanooga West KOA.
Seasonal water availability: Not all parks maintain water service year-round. Bring filled tanks during shoulder seasons. "We came here to camp among the turning trees one September. It is a huge area and I didn't see any camping other than primitive tent sites," shares a camper about Prentice Cooper State Forest, highlighting the lack of hookups in more remote areas.
