Big Ridge State Park Campground offers rustic lakeside camping with access to 15 miles of hiking trails and year-round availability. The campground sits at an elevation of 1,100 feet along the shores of Norris Lake and connects to multiple historical sites within the park boundaries. Seasonal visitors should plan for cold-weather camping from December through February when temperatures frequently drop below freezing at night.
What to do
Lake activities on Norris Lake: Sites at Big Ridge State Park Campground provide direct access to water recreation. "Some sites are right next to the water which is great for kayaking and water adventures," notes camper Mary D. The park's beach area allows swimming during summer months, though visitors report seasonal challenges: "There is a nearby swimming area, but it was occupied by geese families and there was quite a lot of goose poop."
Hike historical trails: The park features trails of varying difficulty levels connecting to historical sites. A camper accessing backcountry areas explains, "I've stayed at this site a couple times now and I love the location. The site is a short and easy hike (under 2 miles) from the parking lot via the Lake Trail to the Dark Hollow Trail." Another visitor adds, "I've also finished the trip by hiking the loop back out by continuing on Dark Hollow to Big Valley Trail, to Ghost House Trail and back to Lake Trail (5.3 miles total)."
Museum visits near Clinton: The Clinton-Knoxville North KOA provides easy access to unique cultural sites. "While in the Clinton area you can check out many things within a short drive, perhaps one of the most interesting the Museum of Appalachia, a working village which takes you back in time," notes one reviewer. Another camper mentions, "Take the drive to Oak Ridge and check out the Manhattan Project museum. This one is one of those 'top secret' cities you only hear about on the history channel, now open to tell its secrets."
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: Greenbrier Campground receives consistent praise for its exceptional bath facilities. A camper explains, "The bath house appeared to be newer, and will trump your home facilities in many cases! Within the bath house, there are several private doors leading to your own 3 piece bath with shelving and granite counters with outlets, and a stunning double shower." Another notes, "Bathrooms and showers were numerous and clean AND air conditioned."
Water-adjacent campsites: Riverside sites remain popular among glamping enthusiasts near Maynardville. "The sound of the rushing river is a plus," notes one Greenbrier Campground visitor. At Anderson County Park, a camper shared, "This specific spot was huge and next to a wooded area and nature walk and, in my opinion, the best site in the whole campground!" Sites with water access remain open through late fall: "I spent the long Thanksgiving weekend here. Other campgrounds in the area were closed, but this one is open year round."
Secluded feels with convenient locations: The glamping spots near Maynardville balance privacy with accessibility. "Great location with easy access to Gatlinburg but secluded as well," notes a visitor to Elkmont Campground. Another camper adds, "The campground is beautiful with rivers running through it. Is usually very crowed year round (especially during firefly season), but there is plenty of space between the campsites."
What you should know
Seasonal closures vary by location: Many campgrounds in the area limit operations during winter. "Big Ridge State Park provides glamping options with access to Norris Lake," though some facilities close seasonally. According to one camper at Cades Cove Campground, "The nearest 'town' is Townsend, TN, with limited resources." Plan appropriately as "November is when the leaves are changing. Temps cool at night, moderately nice during the day...got snow at Clingman's Dome however during the day!"
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. A camper at Anderson County Park notes, "No wifi. I have US Cellular and had limited service. Enough to maybe look something up and receive texts." At Elkmont, visitors report "WiFi in the campground. This is notable because the area's mountains make reception touch and go mostly."
Traffic and crowding concerns: High visitation affects travel times. "Cades Cove was fairly quiet and the site was slightly wooded," though another camper warns, "The Smoky Mountains are too big to really navigate all from one camp area. Roads are narrow and windy and on busy days you hardly can accomplish even a couple things of interest on your list."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Most luxury camping facilities near Maynardville accommodate families well. One visitor to GlampKnox shares, "The property has a one-mile hiking trail. There are restrooms and an outdoor shower just a short walk or drive down the hill." Family groups appreciate inclusive facilities at Greenbrier: "Top Notch Fun For All Ages... Our group was in tents, campers and the only cabin on property. The swimming hole was a blessing during the hot days!"
Plan for wildlife education: Children especially enjoy animal encounters. "This is a very unique spot in the smokies. I have never seen more black bear. It was a very safe distance we watched them about a football field away across a field pretty amazing experience," reports a Cades Cove visitor. At Appalachia Ridge, "It is right next to the Museum of Appalachia. It's full of peacocks and mini horses and fat little pigs. I really enjoyed hearing the peacocks and donkeys in the morning."
Pack for temperature fluctuations: Weather conditions can shift rapidly, especially during spring and fall. Elkmont campers note, "Despite traveling during the last weekend in March, we encountered very wet and cold weather for the region, and a warm meal was a welcome bonus." Appropriate clothing and bedding layers ensure comfort across varying conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV sites vary significantly in size and accessibility. "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. Roads are a little narrow in the campground, made it a little hard to back trailer in," warns a Big Ridge visitor. Another notes, "The front of the truck was the issue hitting rocks on the side of the road."
Consider reservation timing: High season requires advance planning. "Make your reservations far in advance this is a destination!" advises a camper. Off-season visits allow more flexibility: "This early in the season (mid-April) the campground wasn't full, some of the loops were closed."
Local supply limitations: Stock up before arrival as rural locations have limited services. Clinton KOA reports: "We got here after hours and they had everything we needed at the check in with our names, site number and directions to our site." At more remote locations, "Big Ridge State Park has nothing within 30 minutes and we are talking some winding roads. Enjoyable drive in but bring your food."
