Cabins near Maynardville, Tennessee sit among the northeast Tennessee foothills at approximately 1,000 feet elevation, where the Clinch River forms Norris Lake. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through February, with summer highs averaging in the mid-80s. Cabin rental policies vary significantly between campgrounds, with some requiring 2-night minimum stays during peak seasons.
What to do
Hike nearby trails: Big Ridge State Park Campground offers multiple hiking trails of varying difficulty directly accessible from the camping area. "There are several hiking trails of varying degrees of difficulty, gift shop, and a grist mill to check out," notes Nicole D. about the park's diverse offerings.
Bicycle through scenic areas: Cades Cove Campground provides exceptional cycling opportunities on paved roads. As Jeremy H. explains, "On certain days they close off the loop of Cades Cove for bicycles to be able to ride. At the store near the campground they rent bikes for a reasonable rate. We took the entire family on the loop bike ride."
Fish from your campsite: Loyston Point Campground allows visitors to fish directly from waterfront sites. According to Andrew B., "Great place for kids to hang out, play in the water, and pull the boat right up to our camp site." Many lakefront cabins allow guests to fish without leaving their rental property.
Explore historic structures: The area features preserved buildings and settlements from early Appalachian settlers. At Cades Cove Campground, Buck R. recommends, "Go on the car tour loop and make sure to stop and look at the cabins and church. History at its finest."
What campers like
Privacy at small properties: Rocky Meadows Farm offers a more secluded experience than larger campgrounds. As one camper reports, "Because I was the only guest that night he allowed me to choose which site I slept at but site 1, my original spot, was great! Tucked back in the woods, I would have felt quite secluded even if others were on the property."
Waterfront access: Several cabin rental properties provide direct lake or river frontage. Michael M. from Loyston Point Campground shares, "We were right on the lake and the grounds were very clean. The staff was so nice and always around to help if needed."
Clean facilities: Rental cabin guests appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. "The bathrooms were always very clean and had nice hot water showers," notes Andrew B. about his family's experience at Loyston Point.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local animals. Laura C. from Rocky Meadows Farm mentions, "It's secluded but clean, and lots of fireflies and a great view! My girls loved exploring and catching fireflies."
What you should know
Site sizes and spacing vary substantially: Some campgrounds have very limited space between cabins and tent sites. Ginger G. notes about Hickory Star Campground, "Camp sites were very small and situated on top of each other. Most campers are residents."
Seasonal crowds impact experience: Peak season can mean full facilities and limited availability. At Elkmont Campground, Jean C. advises, "Elkmont 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."
Noise levels fluctuate by location: Some cabin areas experience unexpected noise issues. According to John W., "When the noise of the amusement parks and traffic dies down you get about an hour of peace before the food warehouse on the other side starts loading trucks non stop through the night."
Limited cell service: Many cabin rental properties have poor or non-existent cell reception. Carol B. reports, "No cell service for Verizon and none for many miles on the drive to the site," regarding her stay at Cades Cove.
Tips for camping with families
Check bathroom proximity: When booking cabins with children, verify the distance to restroom facilities. J&C C. at Loyston Point Campground shares this insight: "Bath houses aren't the best, but will work for what they are needed. Lots of kids running around by themselves."
Look for cabin alternatives: Some properties offer unique accommodations beyond standard cabins. At GlampKnox, Lori H. explains, "The site has a really nice tent cabin, with a covered porch, rocking chairs, and a wood burning stove. The tent has two twin beds, and they were super comfy."
Verify amenities for entertainment: Properties vary widely in available activities. Casey S. notes, "Had so much fun at this campground. We were right on the lake and the grounds were very clean." Some cabin areas provide game rooms, playgrounds, or swimming areas, while others focus on natural surroundings.
Check for wildlife safety rules: Cabin rentals in bear country require special precautions. According to Jean C., "It's bear country, so your food and toiletries need to be locked in a vehicle or hard-side camping unit; there are some food storage lockers provided for the walk-in sites."
Tips from RVers
Verify site dimensions carefully: Many cabin rental properties also accommodate RVs but have specific size limitations. Michelle S. from Clinton-Knoxville North KOA notes, "The only downside is the horrifically unleveled sites. The sites were spacious and the access roads were very easy to maneuver."
Consider proximity to amenities: When booking RV sites with cabins, location within the campground matters. Kc K. advises, "Site 43. Big site, fairly flat. Just have levelers on one side. Close to the bathhouse and a quick walk to the entrance to get to the store, swim area, etc."
Check hookup availability: Not all cabin camping areas provide full RV services. Andrea F. explains, "It's a small campground with only 37 rv sites, a primitive camping section and several small cabins. They offer a pool, dog park, laundry and game room."
Ask about interior roads: Some properties have challenging access roads leading to cabin and RV areas. "Roads are a little narrow in the campground, made it a little hard to back trailer in- the front of the truck was the issue hitting rocks on the side of the road," shares Kc K. about their experience.
