Madisonville, Tennessee camping options span across the eastern Tennessee foothills, near the Cherokee National Forest at elevations ranging from 800-1,500 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with moderate rainfall, making spring through fall the primary camping season. Winter temperatures typically range from 25-45°F while summer averages 65-85°F with higher humidity.
What to do
Hiking the Cherohala Skyway trails: Several campgrounds provide access to this scenic route with numerous hiking paths ranging from beginner to advanced. "This is one of the best maintained campgrounds I've been too. Beautiful area, quiet, clean and lots to do. We rented a couple of kayaks to play in the lake with, best idea ever," notes a visitor at Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Fishing in stocked waters: The streams and lakes around Madisonville are regularly stocked with trout and other species. "I have come here for decades. Clear, clean water abounds here. TWRA stocks plenty of trout Feb-early Sept. I have met some of the nicest folks here too," shares a camper at Double Camp/Citico Creek.
Swimming in mountain lakes: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas with sandy beaches for summer cooling off. "Great camping area, great for family camping. Hiking trail around lake fun to kayak and fish on also has a swimming area and large picnic area that's covered," explains a visitor at Indian Boundary.
What campers like
Private fishing ponds: Beyond Olde English Farm's offerings, other locations provide fishing opportunities. "Very clean campground located right on the lake with available boat slips to rent during your stay. This is a very open campground with very few trees. The sites are concrete and gravel," notes a visitor at Toqua Beach Campground.
Affordable glamping options: Boutique camping experiences in Madisonville, Tennessee can be found at various price points. "The name has changed to Smitty's Lodge & CG. I found this awesome campground close to the beginning of the Cherohala skyway in Tellico Plains. Includes picnic table, fire pit and some chairs (they also sell firewood), clean restrooms and showers, use of refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, and super nice hosts," reports a camper at Smitty's Lodge Motorcycle Campground.
Historical areas: Some camping areas feature preserved structures and settlements. "The campground has a wonderful area and the history of the place is amazing," mentions a visitor about Elkmont Campground in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which includes an abandoned resort town from the early 1900s to explore.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds in the area close during winter months (typically November to March). Always check opening dates before planning a trip, especially for National Forest campgrounds.
Bear safety protocols: Most campgrounds in the region require proper food storage. "Obey the rules about bears! We met people who saw one recently. Really lovely site within a pretty wild part of TN."
Limited cell service: Many camping areas have minimal or no connectivity. "Leave your phone at home, you won't have a signal, broadcast radio barely makes it in," advises a camper at Double Camp/Citico Creek.
Campground access roads: Some locations require navigating steep mountain roads. "To get to this campground you have to go up a steep narrow windy mountain road. The camp sites are distanced well and the entire campground is in the shade."
Tips for camping with families
Sites with dedicated kid activities: Some campgrounds offer specialized facilities for children. "Busy campground with nice amenities, including a camp store. Friendly staff," notes one camper about Indian Boundary.
Bathroom facilities: When glamping in Madisonville area with children, bathroom access is important. "The bathrooms are very clean and spacious. Great beach area and they rent SUP and kayaks. I would highly recommend booking your next adventure at this campground!"
Water recreation options: Lakes provide cooling entertainment during hot months. "Took the kids camping several times, not too far from town, but great hiking, fishing close. Good lake swimming area. Sites not exceedingly close."
Seasonal activities: "For those who like to hike, there is a trail around the lake. One can also use this trail for bike riding. Camp sites are spacious and have lots of trees for Eno hanging."
Tips from RVers
Dump stations: Not all campgrounds have dump stations on-site. "From the B loop, you have to traverse about a 120 degree switchback to get to it. My friend who was there pulling a 5th wheel decided not to try it and opted to pay to dump somewhere else."
Hookup availability: Water access points are sometimes communal rather than at individual sites. "No water hookup but you can fill your tank at the spigots. Electric was available at our site."
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven or oddly-shaped sites. "Our site was probably the worst designed one. Really strange back-in in the shape of an L over a creek with the electric on the wrong side. Probably why it was still available. But we made it work."
Road conditions: "Coming up the mountain has some steep grades and a few switch backs that you can't see around. There are often oncoming vehicles who are often driving too fast and not considering those of us in large vehicles."
