Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Madisonville, TN has a lot to offer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Madisonville, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
Cades Cove Campground, located near Townsend, TN, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Open from March 11 to October 31, this campground offers a range of accommodations including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and even glamping options.
One of the standout features here is the proximity to the Cades Cove Loop, a scenic drive that’s a hit with visitors. You can expect to see plenty of wildlife, including turkeys, bears, and coyotes. The campground itself is pretty quiet, especially at night, making it a great place to hear the sounds of nature.
The campground has flush toilets, potable water at the toilet facilities, and a sanitary dump station. While there are no showers or sewer hookups, the convenience of having a camp store on-site makes up for it. You can grab essentials like firewood and ice without having to leave the campground.
For those who love biking, the campground offers bike rentals, and the loop is perfect for a leisurely ride. If hiking is more your speed, there are plenty of trails nearby to explore. Just be aware that cell service is spotty, so it’s a good idea to bring a book or download some shows ahead of time.
Visitors have mentioned that the sites are a bit close together, but the overall experience of being so close to nature more than makes up for it. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Cades Cove Campground provides a great base for exploring the Smokies.
$30 / night
Located eight miles from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Elkmont Campground is the largest and busiest campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At an elevation of 2,150 feet, the area enjoys a moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers.
The Little River runs through the campground offering visitors the option to camp waterfront. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the Little River and countless other streams and rivers that snake through the mountains. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from Elkmont Campground. The nearby and popular Laurel Falls Trail leads to a spectacular 80-ft. waterfall. Hiking and fishing are not the only reasons for visiting the Smokies: Picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are popular activities. With around 1,500 bears living in the park, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot one. From the big animals like bears, deer, and elk, down to microscopic organisms, the Smokies are the most biologically-diverse area in the world's temperate zone. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy. The park also holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park.
The Little River runs through the campground offering visitors the option to camp waterfront. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the Little River and countless other streams and rivers that snake through the mountains. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from Elkmont Campground. The nearby and popular Laurel Falls Trail leads to a spectacular 80-ft. waterfall. Hiking and fishing are not the only reasons for visiting the Smokies: Picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are popular activities. With around 1,500 bears living in the park, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot one. From the big animals like bears, deer, and elk, down to microscopic organisms, the Smokies are the most biologically-diverse area in the world's temperate zone. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy. The park also holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park.
Generations of campers have returned to Elkmont year after year, drawn by the sounds of the river, the tranquility of the forest, and the variety of recreational activities in the Elkmont area. Little River and Jakes Creek run through the campground, offering easy access for fishing or cool summertime splashing. Trailheads for Little River Trail, Jakes Creek Trail, and Elkmont Nature Trail are located adjacent to the campground. Historic remnants of Little River Lumber Company's logging camp and old buildings from the Elkmont resort community offer campers a glimpse of life at Elkmont nearly a century ago.
Gatlinburg, one of the Smokies' most famous tourist towns, is located about nine miles from Elkmont and offers organized rafting trips, museums, restaurants, galleries, an aquarium, skiing and more.
$30 / night
Indian Boundary Recreation Area is the crown jewel of the South Zone of the Cherokee National Forest on the Tellico Ranger District. This family-oriented campground offers a swim beach and picnic area with grills and an accessible picnic pavilion, as well as a fantastic, 3.2-mile hiking and biking trail around the lake. Spectacular mountain views, glimpses of wildlife, and a peaceful setting await visitors who come to Indian Boundary.
Opportunities abound for fishing, swimming, boating, wildlife viewing and scenic driving. Other popular activities include hiking and biking the trail around Indian Boundary Lake. The recreation area contains a swim beach, boat ramp, fishing pier, picnic area and volleyball court.
Opportunities abound for fishing, swimming, boating, wildlife viewing and scenic driving. Other popular activities include hiking and biking the trail around Indian Boundary Lake. The recreation area contains a swim beach, boat ramp, fishing pier, picnic area and volleyball court.
Indian Boundary Lake covers 96 acres at an elevation of 1,560 feet, and sits among hardwoods and pines. At the lake, visitors enjoy watching beaver that inhabit an adjacent pond, identifying several species of ducks and other waterfowl and trying their luck at catching bass, sunfish and catfish. The Cherokee National Forest is located in eastern Tennessee and stretches from Chattanooga to Bristol along the North Carolina border. The 650,000-acre swath of land is Tennessee's only national forest. It lies in the heart of the Southern Appalachians and is home to more than 20,000 species of plants and animals, as well as many rivers, creeks and lakes. Elevations range from 750 to 5,500 feet.
The campground is two miles off the Cherohala Skyway, a 43-mile National Scenic Byway that stretches from Tellico Plains, Tennessee, to Robbinsville, North Carolina. Bald River Falls on Tellico River Road 210 is a popular destination. The Pheasant Fields Fish Hatchery also on Tellico River is operated by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and is the rearing pools for the fish stocking program on Tellico River, Citico Creek, and the Green Cove Pond.
$20 / night
Welcome to Gee Creek Campground, nestled in the Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park near Delano, TN. This place is a gem for families and nature lovers alike. The campground is right on the north bank of the Hiwassee River, offering some pretty sweet views and easy access to the water. If you're into kayaking or whitewater rafting, you're in luck—this area is famous for its world-class rapids.
The campground itself is pretty straightforward. You've got your basics covered with drinking water, showers, and toilets. Each campsite comes with a concrete picnic table, a fire ring, and a lantern post. No electric hookups here, so be ready to rough it a bit. But hey, that's part of the charm, right?
Families will love the playground and the fairytale story walk. There's also a nature trail that loops around the park, perfect for a leisurely hike. If you're into fishing, the river's right there, and there's a boat launch for easy access. Firewood is available at the visitor center, so no need to haul your own.
The campground is pretty open and flat, which makes it easy to set up camp but also means you might hear your neighbors. It's a trade-off, but the spacious sites and the natural beauty more than make up for it. Plus, the rangers here are top-notch—friendly and always ready to help.
So, if you're looking for a family-friendly spot with plenty of outdoor activities, Gee Creek Campground is worth checking out. Just don't expect total solitude; this place is popular for a reason.
$35 - $85 / night
Melton Hill Dam Campground, managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), is a gem near Lenoir City, TN. This spot is open year-round and offers a mix of tent and RV accommodations. It's a great place for families and solo campers alike, with plenty of amenities to make your stay comfortable.
One of the standout features here is the friendly and accommodating staff. Visitors have praised them for their helpfulness, especially when it comes to finding the right site for your needs. Speaking of sites, they vary in size, so if you have a larger tent or RV, you might want to double-check the dimensions before settling in. Some sites come with electric and sewer hookups, which is a big plus for RV campers.
The campground is right by the Tennessee River, offering beautiful views and a designated swimming area. If you're into water sports, you'll appreciate the boat ramp on-site. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are picnic tables and fire pits at each site, perfect for a cozy evening by the fire.
The bathhouses are a bit of a mixed bag. While some campers have noted they could use a bit more cleaning, others found them adequate. The TVA is working on adding another bathhouse, which should help alleviate any congestion.
Cell coverage can be spotty, so be prepared to unplug and enjoy the natural beauty around you. The campground is also close to various amenities in Lenoir City, making it easy to stock up on supplies or grab a bite to eat.
Overall, Melton Hill Dam Campground offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of activities to keep you busy. Whether you're here for a weekend or an extended stay, you'll find it a welcoming place to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.
$18 - $31 / night
Welcome to Sweetwater KOA, a fantastic spot near Sweetwater, TN, that's perfect for families and travelers alike. This campground is open all year and offers a variety of accommodations, including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and even glamping options.
One of the standout features here is the friendly and helpful staff. Visitors consistently mention how welcoming and accommodating they are, making your stay as smooth as possible. The campground is also known for its cleanliness, with well-maintained bathhouses and facilities.
For families, there's plenty to keep the kids entertained. The campground boasts an arcade room, a jump pad, playgrounds, and organized social gatherings. There's even a small fishing pond and a gazebo with an outdoor stove and sink, perfect for a family cookout.
Pets are welcome too, with ample space for walking and potty breaks. If you're traveling with a big rig, you'll find the sites spacious and accommodating, though some guests noted that the sites can be a bit close together.
The campground store is well-stocked with supplies and souvenirs, and there's a laundry room that's open 24 hours. For those who enjoy a good campfire, firewood is available, and fires are allowed at your site.
Sweetwater KOA is also conveniently located near some interesting attractions, including a historic area and an underground lake. Whether you're here for a quick stay or a longer visit, this campground offers a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Abram's Creek Campground is located in a relatively remote area of Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The secluded setting offers visitors the ability to enjoy a multitude of recreational activities like hiking and fishing, without the crowds, which are sometimes common in other areas of the park.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks. Hiking is not the only reason for visiting the Smokies: Fishing, picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are popular activities. The Abram's Creek area features many hikes from the campground and nearby Abram's Creek Ranger Station. Hikers can access Abram's Waterfall via the Little Bottoms Trail, approximately 8 miles round trip. The Park advises against swimming at the falls due to severe undercurrents. Several drownings have occurred at these falls. Several loop hikes are available for the hiker that does not wish to retrace his/her steps. Chilhowee lake is located off of US-129 and is less than 10 miles from Abram's Creek Campground. Visitors can canoe, kayak and fish in this lake surrounded by majestic mountains. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the countless streams and rivers that snake through the mountains. Anglers will agree that some of the best trout fishing in the area can be found along Abram's Creek. Fly fishing is particularly good during spring months when aquatic insects hatch in large numbers. Wildlife viewing is a popular pastime, and with around 1,500 bear living in the park, it is not uncommon for visitors to spot one. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all which is protected for future generations to enjoy. The Park also holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills, have been preserved or rehabilitated in the Park.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks. Hiking is not the only reason for visiting the Smokies: Fishing, picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are popular activities. The Abram's Creek area features many hikes from the campground and nearby Abram's Creek Ranger Station. Hikers can access Abram's Waterfall via the Little Bottoms Trail, approximately 8 miles round trip. The Park advises against swimming at the falls due to severe undercurrents. Several drownings have occurred at these falls. Several loop hikes are available for the hiker that does not wish to retrace his/her steps. Chilhowee lake is located off of US-129 and is less than 10 miles from Abram's Creek Campground. Visitors can canoe, kayak and fish in this lake surrounded by majestic mountains. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the countless streams and rivers that snake through the mountains. Anglers will agree that some of the best trout fishing in the area can be found along Abram's Creek. Fly fishing is particularly good during spring months when aquatic insects hatch in large numbers. Wildlife viewing is a popular pastime, and with around 1,500 bear living in the park, it is not uncommon for visitors to spot one. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all which is protected for future generations to enjoy. The Park also holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills, have been preserved or rehabilitated in the Park.
At a 1,125 foot elevation, Abram's Creek Campground provides a moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers. Beautiful Abram's Creek flows beside the campground offering the camper the peaceful sounds of rippling water.
Nearby attractions include US-129 (aka "The Dragon"), Foothills Parkway, Chilhowee Lake and Cades Cove
_____ If you plan to arrive at a date later than your arrival date you MUST contact the campground office 865-448-4103 in order to avoid a cancellation to your reservation. If you wish to cancel your reservation the day of your arrival you MUST contact the campground office 865-448-4103 in order to receive a refund. ___ Rules and reservation policies can be found at https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies
$30 / night
Located in the Chilhowee Recreation Area, Chilhowee Campground offers a multitude of camping opportunities for both RV and tent sites, many with electric hookups. The day-use area includes McKamy Lake, a swim area with sand beach, picnic sites, a group picnic area, and a bathhouse.__ Be Aware; Do not use GPS directions: GPS coordinates will direct you up Benton Springs Rd. This route is not recommended. We recommend using Forest Service Road 77 to reach the recreation area. It's important to note, this facility requires driving 7 miles up to Chilhowee Campground on a narrow, winding road. Do not use the Benton Springs Access Road to the campground as this is an unpaved and dangerous road for RVs. Inexperienced RV drivers may have difficulties getting to and around the site.
Chilhowee Recreation Area is an excellent hub for hiking and mountain biking in the Chilhowee Trails System, fishing in McKamy Lake, and wildlife viewing without having to get in your car. The 7-acre McKamy Lake offers a swim area with a sand beach, and fishing from the bank. Boats are allowed, but gasoline motors are not. Within the recreation area are approximately 25 miles of hiking and biking trails, and a scenic waterfall. The views and lake are beautiful, especially hiking to Benton Falls via a 1.5 mile in and out moderate trail. On the drive up to the campground, stop at one of the many observation overlooks to see beautiful mountain settings. Wildlife is abundant in this area, so have your camera ready and tread lightly.__ Chilhowee Recreation Area Map and Guide____
Chilhowee Recreation Area is an excellent hub for hiking and mountain biking in the Chilhowee Trails System, fishing in McKamy Lake, and wildlife viewing without having to get in your car. The 7-acre McKamy Lake offers a swim area with a sand beach, and fishing from the bank. Boats are allowed, but gasoline motors are not. Within the recreation area are approximately 25 miles of hiking and biking trails, and a scenic waterfall. The views and lake are beautiful, especially hiking to Benton Falls via a 1.5 mile in and out moderate trail. On the drive up to the campground, stop at one of the many observation overlooks to see beautiful mountain settings. Wildlife is abundant in this area, so have your camera ready and tread lightly.__ Chilhowee Recreation Area Map and Guide____
The Cherokee National Forest is located in eastern Tennessee and stretches from Chattanooga to Bristol along the North Carolina border. The 650,000-acre swath of land is Tennessee's only national forest. It lies in the heart of the Southern Appalachians and is home to more than 20,000 species of plants and animals, as well as many rivers, creeks and lakes.__
In addition to the immediate local activities, world class whitewater rafting opportunities are nearby on the Ocoee and Hiwassee Rivers.
$20 / night
Welcome to Yarberry Campground, nestled near Lenoir City, TN. This place is a gem for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Open all year round, it offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the water. Most sites back right up to the lake, giving you that perfect waterfront experience.
The campground is known for its cleanliness and friendly staff. The bathrooms and showers are well-maintained, which is always a plus. There's a small beach area, a basketball court, and even a beach volleyball court to keep you entertained. If you're into boating, you'll love the easy access to the water. Renting a pontoon boat to explore the lake is highly recommended.
Pets are welcome here, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. The campground also has a market for those last-minute essentials and firewood for your campfires. Speaking of campfires, yes, fires are allowed, so you can enjoy those cozy nights under the stars.
One thing to note is that while there are electric hookups, there's no sewer hookup at the sites. But don't let that deter you; the sanitary dump station is available for use. The campground is gated, adding an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
Whether you're in a tent or an RV, Yarberry Campground has got you covered. It's a fantastic spot to relax, enjoy nature, and make some great memories. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and come see why so many visitors keep coming back.
Over 2 million visitors annually come to enjoy the scenic beauty of Cades Cove and its many historic structures, popular biking and hiking trails and scenic waterfalls and streams. Tucked in the mountains under a lush, shaded canopy, this group campground offers the best that the Great Smoky Mountains National park has to offer.
The Great Smoky Mountains are a hikers paradise and visitors to Cades Cove Campground love the 5-mile roundtrip hike to Abram Falls. From Cades Cove Loop Road, turnoff at the sign and follow the directions to the trailhead. Although Abrams Falls is only 20 feet high, the large volume of water rushing over falls more than makes up for its lack of height. The long, deep pool at its base is very picturesque. The trail to the falls traverses pine-oak forest on the ridges and hemlock and rhododendron forest along the creek. The waterfall and creek are named for Cherokee Chief Abram or Abraham whose village once stood several miles downstream. A nearby horse stable provides one-hour horseback rides as well as hay rides and carriage rides from March through October, offering recreational activities for the entire family. Campers can also enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the countless streams and rivers that snake through the mountains, with trout available in abundance.
The Great Smoky Mountains are a hikers paradise and visitors to Cades Cove Campground love the 5-mile roundtrip hike to Abram Falls. From Cades Cove Loop Road, turnoff at the sign and follow the directions to the trailhead. Although Abrams Falls is only 20 feet high, the large volume of water rushing over falls more than makes up for its lack of height. The long, deep pool at its base is very picturesque. The trail to the falls traverses pine-oak forest on the ridges and hemlock and rhododendron forest along the creek. The waterfall and creek are named for Cherokee Chief Abram or Abraham whose village once stood several miles downstream. A nearby horse stable provides one-hour horseback rides as well as hay rides and carriage rides from March through October, offering recreational activities for the entire family. Campers can also enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the countless streams and rivers that snake through the mountains, with trout available in abundance.
Cades Cove is a broad, verdant valley surrounded by mountains and is one of the most popular destinations in the Great Smokies. It offers some of the best opportunities for wildlife viewing in the park. Large numbers of white-tailed deer are frequently seen, and sightings of black bear, coyote, ground hog, turkey, raccoon, skunk, and other animals are also possible. For hundreds of years Cherokee Indians hunted in Cades Cove but archeologists have found no evidence of major settlements. The first Europeans settled in the cove sometime between 1818 and 1821. By 1830 the population of the area had already swelled to 271.
The park holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills, have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park, a few of which are easily accessible from the Cades Cove Loop Road. Townsend, located about nine miles away, offers full service grocery stores and fuel.
_____ If you plan to arrive at a date later than your arrival date you MUST contact the campground office 865-448-4103 in order to avoid a cancellation to your reservation. If you wish to cancel your reservation the day of your arrival you MUST contact the campground office 865-448-4103 in order to receive a refund. ___ Rules and reservation policies can be found at https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies Customers who cancel a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee.
$50 / night
Cades Cove Campground, located near Townsend, TN, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Open from March 11 to October 31, this campground offers a range of accommodations including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and even glamping options.
One of the standout features here is the proximity to the Cades Cove Loop, a scenic drive that’s a hit with visitors. You can expect to see plenty of wildlife, including turkeys, bears, and coyotes. The campground itself is pretty quiet, especially at night, making it a great place to hear the sounds of nature.
The campground has flush toilets, potable water at the toilet facilities, and a sanitary dump station. While there are no showers or sewer hookups, the convenience of having a camp store on-site makes up for it. You can grab essentials like firewood and ice without having to leave the campground.
For those who love biking, the campground offers bike rentals, and the loop is perfect for a leisurely ride. If hiking is more your speed, there are plenty of trails nearby to explore. Just be aware that cell service is spotty, so it’s a good idea to bring a book or download some shows ahead of time.
Visitors have mentioned that the sites are a bit close together, but the overall experience of being so close to nature more than makes up for it. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Cades Cove Campground provides a great base for exploring the Smokies.
$30 / night
Located eight miles from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Elkmont Campground is the largest and busiest campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At an elevation of 2,150 feet, the area enjoys a moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers.
The Little River runs through the campground offering visitors the option to camp waterfront. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the Little River and countless other streams and rivers that snake through the mountains. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from Elkmont Campground. The nearby and popular Laurel Falls Trail leads to a spectacular 80-ft. waterfall. Hiking and fishing are not the only reasons for visiting the Smokies: Picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are popular activities. With around 1,500 bears living in the park, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot one. From the big animals like bears, deer, and elk, down to microscopic organisms, the Smokies are the most biologically-diverse area in the world's temperate zone. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy. The park also holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park.
The Little River runs through the campground offering visitors the option to camp waterfront. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the Little River and countless other streams and rivers that snake through the mountains. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from Elkmont Campground. The nearby and popular Laurel Falls Trail leads to a spectacular 80-ft. waterfall. Hiking and fishing are not the only reasons for visiting the Smokies: Picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are popular activities. With around 1,500 bears living in the park, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot one. From the big animals like bears, deer, and elk, down to microscopic organisms, the Smokies are the most biologically-diverse area in the world's temperate zone. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy. The park also holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park.
Generations of campers have returned to Elkmont year after year, drawn by the sounds of the river, the tranquility of the forest, and the variety of recreational activities in the Elkmont area. Little River and Jakes Creek run through the campground, offering easy access for fishing or cool summertime splashing. Trailheads for Little River Trail, Jakes Creek Trail, and Elkmont Nature Trail are located adjacent to the campground. Historic remnants of Little River Lumber Company's logging camp and old buildings from the Elkmont resort community offer campers a glimpse of life at Elkmont nearly a century ago.
Gatlinburg, one of the Smokies' most famous tourist towns, is located about nine miles from Elkmont and offers organized rafting trips, museums, restaurants, galleries, an aquarium, skiing and more.
$30 / night
Indian Boundary Recreation Area is the crown jewel of the South Zone of the Cherokee National Forest on the Tellico Ranger District. This family-oriented campground offers a swim beach and picnic area with grills and an accessible picnic pavilion, as well as a fantastic, 3.2-mile hiking and biking trail around the lake. Spectacular mountain views, glimpses of wildlife, and a peaceful setting await visitors who come to Indian Boundary.
Opportunities abound for fishing, swimming, boating, wildlife viewing and scenic driving. Other popular activities include hiking and biking the trail around Indian Boundary Lake. The recreation area contains a swim beach, boat ramp, fishing pier, picnic area and volleyball court.
Opportunities abound for fishing, swimming, boating, wildlife viewing and scenic driving. Other popular activities include hiking and biking the trail around Indian Boundary Lake. The recreation area contains a swim beach, boat ramp, fishing pier, picnic area and volleyball court.
Indian Boundary Lake covers 96 acres at an elevation of 1,560 feet, and sits among hardwoods and pines. At the lake, visitors enjoy watching beaver that inhabit an adjacent pond, identifying several species of ducks and other waterfowl and trying their luck at catching bass, sunfish and catfish. The Cherokee National Forest is located in eastern Tennessee and stretches from Chattanooga to Bristol along the North Carolina border. The 650,000-acre swath of land is Tennessee's only national forest. It lies in the heart of the Southern Appalachians and is home to more than 20,000 species of plants and animals, as well as many rivers, creeks and lakes. Elevations range from 750 to 5,500 feet.
The campground is two miles off the Cherohala Skyway, a 43-mile National Scenic Byway that stretches from Tellico Plains, Tennessee, to Robbinsville, North Carolina. Bald River Falls on Tellico River Road 210 is a popular destination. The Pheasant Fields Fish Hatchery also on Tellico River is operated by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and is the rearing pools for the fish stocking program on Tellico River, Citico Creek, and the Green Cove Pond.
$20 / night
Welcome to Gee Creek Campground, nestled in the Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park near Delano, TN. This place is a gem for families and nature lovers alike. The campground is right on the north bank of the Hiwassee River, offering some pretty sweet views and easy access to the water. If you're into kayaking or whitewater rafting, you're in luck—this area is famous for its world-class rapids.
The campground itself is pretty straightforward. You've got your basics covered with drinking water, showers, and toilets. Each campsite comes with a concrete picnic table, a fire ring, and a lantern post. No electric hookups here, so be ready to rough it a bit. But hey, that's part of the charm, right?
Families will love the playground and the fairytale story walk. There's also a nature trail that loops around the park, perfect for a leisurely hike. If you're into fishing, the river's right there, and there's a boat launch for easy access. Firewood is available at the visitor center, so no need to haul your own.
The campground is pretty open and flat, which makes it easy to set up camp but also means you might hear your neighbors. It's a trade-off, but the spacious sites and the natural beauty more than make up for it. Plus, the rangers here are top-notch—friendly and always ready to help.
So, if you're looking for a family-friendly spot with plenty of outdoor activities, Gee Creek Campground is worth checking out. Just don't expect total solitude; this place is popular for a reason.
$35 - $85 / night
Melton Hill Dam Campground, managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), is a gem near Lenoir City, TN. This spot is open year-round and offers a mix of tent and RV accommodations. It's a great place for families and solo campers alike, with plenty of amenities to make your stay comfortable.
One of the standout features here is the friendly and accommodating staff. Visitors have praised them for their helpfulness, especially when it comes to finding the right site for your needs. Speaking of sites, they vary in size, so if you have a larger tent or RV, you might want to double-check the dimensions before settling in. Some sites come with electric and sewer hookups, which is a big plus for RV campers.
The campground is right by the Tennessee River, offering beautiful views and a designated swimming area. If you're into water sports, you'll appreciate the boat ramp on-site. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are picnic tables and fire pits at each site, perfect for a cozy evening by the fire.
The bathhouses are a bit of a mixed bag. While some campers have noted they could use a bit more cleaning, others found them adequate. The TVA is working on adding another bathhouse, which should help alleviate any congestion.
Cell coverage can be spotty, so be prepared to unplug and enjoy the natural beauty around you. The campground is also close to various amenities in Lenoir City, making it easy to stock up on supplies or grab a bite to eat.
Overall, Melton Hill Dam Campground offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of activities to keep you busy. Whether you're here for a weekend or an extended stay, you'll find it a welcoming place to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.
$18 - $31 / night
Welcome to Sweetwater KOA, a fantastic spot near Sweetwater, TN, that's perfect for families and travelers alike. This campground is open all year and offers a variety of accommodations, including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and even glamping options.
One of the standout features here is the friendly and helpful staff. Visitors consistently mention how welcoming and accommodating they are, making your stay as smooth as possible. The campground is also known for its cleanliness, with well-maintained bathhouses and facilities.
For families, there's plenty to keep the kids entertained. The campground boasts an arcade room, a jump pad, playgrounds, and organized social gatherings. There's even a small fishing pond and a gazebo with an outdoor stove and sink, perfect for a family cookout.
Pets are welcome too, with ample space for walking and potty breaks. If you're traveling with a big rig, you'll find the sites spacious and accommodating, though some guests noted that the sites can be a bit close together.
The campground store is well-stocked with supplies and souvenirs, and there's a laundry room that's open 24 hours. For those who enjoy a good campfire, firewood is available, and fires are allowed at your site.
Sweetwater KOA is also conveniently located near some interesting attractions, including a historic area and an underground lake. Whether you're here for a quick stay or a longer visit, this campground offers a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Madisonville, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Madisonville, TN offers a wide range of camping options, with 483 campgrounds and RV parks near Madisonville, TN and 32 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Madisonville, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Madisonville, TN is Cades Cove Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 93 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Madisonville, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 32 free dispersed camping spots near Madisonville, TN.
What parks are near Madisonville, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 26 parks near Madisonville, TN that allow camping, notably Croatan National Forest and Tusquitee National Forest.
