Tent and RV campgrounds near Loudon, Tennessee span forested mountains to lakeside settings across Roane, Monroe, and Blount counties. These facilities sit at elevations between 800-1,800 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 75-90°F and winter lows sometimes dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds maintain facilities year-round, though some mountain locations close seasonally between November and March.
What to do
Paddle the lakes: Cumberland Mountain State Park offers boat and kayak rentals with no private boats permitted on their lake. "Great place to visit with large pool, canoe and paddle boat rentals. No privately owned boats on lake," explains one visitor at Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground.
Take the Cades Cove Loop: This popular scenic drive starts and ends at Cades Cove Campground with wildlife viewing opportunities. "The main attraction for most is a driving tour loop that starts & ends right at the campground. You drive around a valley with rivers running through and you're surrounded by mountains. Tons of wildlife, even saw a bear from a distance," notes one camper.
Hike the mountain trails: Frozen Head State Park provides multiple trail options with varying difficulty levels. A visitor at Frozen Head State Park Campground shares, "For those who like to hike, there is a trail around the lake. One can also use this trail for bike ridding. Camp sites are spacious and have lots of trees for Eno hanging."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate the room between sites at Indian Boundary. "This is a very lively, well traveled RV Park and Campground. The park has quite a few large sites for big rigs that are about 80-100ft long," reports a visitor at Sweetwater KOA.
Clean bathhouses: Well-maintained facilities consistently receive positive mentions. "The bathhouse is beautiful with cedar stalls. Lots to do with the hiking. Waterfalls were beautiful and everyone we talked to was super helpful and nice," mentions a visitor at Frozen Head State Park.
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated areas for children. "Swimming pool, fishing pond, playground, jump pad. We don't have pets, but there is a small dog park area. Lots of planned weekend activities," notes a camper at Sweetwater KOA.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Several mountain campgrounds close during winter months. "Cades Cove is open early March – October and reservations are required. If you arrive without a reservation, there is a phone line there that you can call to make them," explains a camper.
Bear safety requirements: Proper food storage is mandatory in this region. "Very strict rules regarding food storage and park has managed to control bears and raccoons," shares a visitor at Elkmont Campground.
Reservation needs: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Reservations needed during peak times. Great place to visit with large pool, canoe and paddle boat rentals," mentions a Cumberland Mountain State Park visitor.
Long-term residents: Some campgrounds have shifted toward extended-stay campers. "This has been our #1 go-to spot and this year it has turned into a predominately long-term camping location," reports a visitor at The Crosseyed Cricket.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Look for campgrounds with designated beach areas for safer water play. "There's a lake with a sandy area, and a beautiful mountain range to enjoy. It's my favorite camping spot!" shares a visitor at Indian Boundary.
Organized activities: Some campgrounds schedule events for children. "The park goes all out for the holidays. We are a month out from Halloween and they have done a spectacular job with decorating. They have lots of kids events. On Saturday there is a train that takes kids and adults on a ride around the park," notes a Sweetwater KOA camper.
Pet-friendly options: Many facilities welcome pets with designated areas. "Plenty of room for our dogs to walk/potty. Plenty for the kids to do-- arcade room, jump pad, and playgrounds," reports a visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain that requires preparation. "Sites not completely level. Propane fairly priced. Good cable, easy hookups. Most sites have dual sewer connects, makes it easier," explains a visitor at Windrock Campground.
Hookup locations: Pay attention to where utilities connect when booking. "At our particular sight the sewer was toward the front of the sight but I had enough hose to get to it," shares a camper at Caney Creek RV Resort.
Road considerations: Access roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. "Road leading in is VERY narrow, don't know how two rigs could pass each other. Get a patio site if you can, they're very nice," advises a Sweetwater KOA visitor.
