Best Campgrounds near Morristown, TN
Morristown, Tennessee provides access to several established campgrounds within a short drive of the city. Panther Creek State Park Campground offers both tent and RV camping with full hookup sites, while Cherokee Dam Campground operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority provides waterfront camping opportunities along the Holston River. The area includes a mix of state park facilities, TVA-managed recreation areas, and private RV resorts. Most campgrounds in the region feature electric hookups, drinking water, and shower facilities, with some offering premium amenities like sewer connections. Camping areas range from lakeside settings to mountain locations, with several options within 30 minutes of downtown Morristown.
"Panther Creek State Park was an unexpected find outside of Knoxville, TN, in Morristown," noted one camper. The campground elevation affects weather conditions, with higher elevation sites experiencing cooler temperatures even during summer months. Most campgrounds in the Morristown area remain open year-round, though some TVA-managed sites like Cherokee Dam operate seasonally from March through November. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays during peak summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly. Cell service is generally reliable at established campgrounds near Morristown, though coverage may be limited in more remote areas. Many campgrounds feature paved, level sites of varying lengths, so checking site specifications before booking is advisable for RV campers.
Campers report high satisfaction with water-adjacent sites throughout the region. The proximity to Douglas Lake and Cherokee Lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming at several campgrounds. A reviewer mentioned that Panther Creek State Park offers "a lot to do recreation wise" with mountain biking trails, horseback riding paths, and hiking opportunities. Mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping are common in the area, though some private resorts cater exclusively to RVs with premium amenities. Public bathhouses and restroom facilities receive positive reviews for cleanliness at most established campgrounds. The region's campgrounds balance natural settings with convenient access to Morristown's services, making them suitable for both weekend getaways and longer stays while exploring eastern Tennessee.