Loudon, Tennessee camping areas sit along the shores of Tellico and Watts Bar Lakes at elevations ranging from 790 to 850 feet. Summer temperatures regularly reach 90°F with high humidity between June and August, while spring and fall temperatures remain mild. Winter overnight temperatures typically drop to the low 30s, with occasional freezing conditions requiring water system shutdowns at several campgrounds.
What to Do
Bike around Cades Cove: The 11-mile loop road at Cades Cove Campground offers dedicated bike-only access on Wednesdays and Saturdays until 10am. "We took the entire family on the loop bike ride. This was so much fun," notes Jeremy H. Bike rentals are available at the campground store for around $8/hour.
Fishing year-round: The Tellico Lake access at Lotterdale Cove Campground provides excellent fishing with minimal crowds. "Fishing is good on the Reservoir with access to over 80 miles of woods, trails, coves galore, with a few restaurants accessible by water," writes Dennis A. Winter fishing remains productive when lake levels are lower.
Kayak rental: Many waterfront sites at Yarberry Campground include private lake access for launching personal watercraft. "They also rent all of those things, as well as paddle boats. They rent bikes too," mentions Lori H. Rental rates typically run $25 for a half-day rental with discounts for campers.
What Campers Like
Direct lake access: Yarberry Campground offers sites with direct water views and shore access. "Even the non-lake site spots have lake views. Lots of nice amenities, but still rustic," says Shawn. Most waterfront sites include room for watercraft and swimming access directly from your campsite.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-serviced bathhouses despite their rural settings. "Great hosts, reasonably priced camp store. Been camping here for 30 years, and it's still my all time favorite place to camp! Beautiful lake and easy access to water. Clean facilities," explains Tara C. about Melton Hill Dam Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The forested areas near Frozen Head State Park provide opportunities to see native wildlife. "A truly beautiful well kept secret of TN. Beautiful grounds and wonderful waterfalls!!" reports Amy P. Early mornings and evenings offer the best chances for viewing deer and wild turkeys.
What You Should Know
Seasonal water shutoffs: RV sites at many campgrounds turn off water during freezing weather. "The water gets turned off for the winter in November or whenever freezing begins," notes Greg H. at Riley Creek. Campers visiting between November and March should confirm water availability before arrival.
Highway noise: Some lakefront sites at Soaring Eagle Campground experience traffic sounds from nearby I-40. "I-40 was literally about 200 feet away so highway noise has to be an issue 24/7," warns Steve V. Request sites furthest from the interstate when making reservations.
Reservation timing: Popular Loudon area campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer months. "I highly recommend booking your spots very early, as it can be difficult to get a spot during the warmer months," advises Lori H. about Yarberry Peninsula. Most campgrounds open reservations 6-12 months in advance.
Tips for Camping with Families
Pet-friendly activities: Sweetwater KOA provides dedicated pet areas beyond standard on-leash policies. "They have two dog parks, one for tiny pups and one for larger pups," explains Laura H. The fenced areas allow dogs to exercise off-leash in designated spaces.
Family-oriented campsites: Several campgrounds offer sites designed specifically for family groups. "The tent area is not huge, but large enough for probably 4-5 tents to have lots of room, maybe more. This would be perfect for groups camping together," notes Lori H. about Yarberry Campground.
Kid-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds provide recreation facilities beyond swimming. "Plenty for the kids to do—arcade room, jump pad, and playgrounds," observes Jovee S. about Sweetwater KOA. Most family-oriented campgrounds maintain these facilities year-round, though pool access is typically limited to May through September.
Tips from RVers
Electrical capacity: Several campgrounds offer 50-amp service for larger RVs. "There are a mix of short-stay and longer stay sites. The picnic tables and grills for our area were up a set of stairs above the RV, the pads opposite were down steps from the RV," reports Sara M. about Melton Hill Dam Campground. Many sites require leveling blocks on sloped terrain.
Site selection: RV campers should research specific site dimensions before booking. "Our site was a little tough to back into, but worth it," notes Shawn about Yarberry Campground. Most campgrounds post site dimensions and access restrictions online, with site-specific photos available for many locations.
Road access considerations: Access roads to some campgrounds present challenges for larger rigs. "The road in is rough with potholes and the transition from blacktop to cement at the gate is a huge jarring transition," cautions Jacob S. about Lotterdale Cove Campground. RVers with larger units should call ahead to confirm accessibility.
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