Panther Creek State Park offers 50 full-hookup campsites along with several hiking and mountain biking trails in the Bean Station area. The park sits on Cherokee Lake with access points for water activities and fishing. While many sites provide lake views, the terrain throughout the campground varies in elevation, requiring careful site selection for larger RVs or those with specific camping needs.
What to do
Kayaking on Cherokee Lake: Cherokee Dam Campground provides direct lake access with boat ramps and swimming areas. "The lake is great to kayak. The store is well stocked. This one is a very nice place to stay!" according to J&C C., who frequented the Cherokee Dam Campground throughout 2020.
Mountain biking trails: The trail system at Panther Creek offers dedicated mountain biking paths suitable for various skill levels. "The mountain biking was so much fun we didn't care! Hiking and biking was an A+. Great place for families because of the surrounding wooded activities," notes Penny M. from Panther Creek State Park Campground.
Horseback riding: Several campgrounds provide access to horseback riding trails throughout the area. "There's also horseback trails. My only complaint about the trails is they are not marked well," says Shelly S., who stayed at Panther Creek State Park while attending a mountain bike event.
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: Campground bathrooms throughout the Bean Station area often feature individual units rather than communal facilities. "Bath houses are next to pavilions. All well maintained. The upper pavilion has a very cool fire pit area," explains Shelly S. about her experience at Panther Creek.
River-front camping options: Greenbrier Campground offers sites with direct river access. "Our site #16 was perfect! It's one of their wider sites so we didn't feel we were on top of our neighbors. The Little Pigeon River was just steps off the back of our camper," shares Erica F., who appreciated the water proximity.
Waterfront tent sites: Many campgrounds offer dedicated tent areas with water access. "The tent sites were awesome, right on the water, and a short walk from the parking lot," explains Lori H. in her review of Cherokee Dam Campground, noting the convenience for tent campers seeking pet-friendly camping near Bean Station.
What you should know
Seasonal tick concerns: Summer visitors should prepare for ticks throughout the Bean Station area. "Though if you come in the summer look out for ticks. Panther Creek is notorious for ticks," warns Dusty W., detailing his experience at the park.
Limited shower facilities: Not all campgrounds include shower amenities. Cosby Campground in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides a more rustic experience without showers. "No showers, but several restrooms in the campground," reports Lori H., who still highly recommended the campground for its hiking access.
Uneven terrain: Many campgrounds in the Bean Station region feature hilly sites requiring leveling equipment. "It's a gradual uphill drive through the camp, you curve to the left and then back down the hill. Check your lengths and bring your leveling boards," advises Shelly S. about Panther Creek State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming holes for hot days: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas for children. "The swimming hole was a blessing during the hot days! The tubing was fun for the older kids and adults," says Elizabeth B. about her experience at Greenbrier Campground.
Off-leash dog areas: Pet-friendly camping near Bean Station includes designated spaces where dogs can run freely. "Pet friendly - pick up stations and off leash area with activities for active breeds," notes Barbara P. from Anchor Down RV Resort, highlighting amenities for families traveling with pets.
Protected tent camping: For families with younger children, Elkmont Campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers secluded tent sites. "The sites aren't the most private we've ever stayed at, but the mountain biking was so much fun we didn't care!" shares Penny M., recommending the park for families.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions matter: RV campers should verify site dimensions before booking. "The sites aren't very large so check the internet under TN State Parks for available sites," recommends Diane H. who camped at Panther Creek State Park.
Campground terrain considerations: Most campgrounds in the Bean Station area feature uneven terrain. "Check your lengths and bring your leveling boards," suggests Shelly S., noting that RVers should prepare for hillside camping at Out on The Creek Campground, which offers "spacious lots with mountain views."
Full hookup availability: Determine your hookup needs before booking. "The Park has tennis courts, a swimming pool, 60 miles of trails and a boat ramp for Cherokee Lake," explains Jim L. about Panther Creek, emphasizing that the campground offers 50 full-hookup sites for RVs requiring complete utilities.
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