Camping options near Morristown, Tennessee cluster around Cherokee Lake at elevations between 1,000-1,100 feet, providing water-based recreation opportunities throughout the warmer months. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 80-90°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Douglas Lake and surrounding TVA properties offer additional camping sites within 30 minutes of Morristown.
What to do
Hiking on Panther Creek Trails: The trail system at Panther Creek State Park Campground offers 60 miles of varied terrain for outdoor enthusiasts. "The Park has tennis courts, a swimming pool, 60 miles of trails and a boat ramp for Cherokee Lake," notes Jim L. Trails range from beginner to advanced with elevation changes providing workout opportunities.
Mountain biking adventures: Several parks in the area feature dedicated mountain biking trails with varying difficulty levels. "Very nice bathrooms. The sites aren't the most private we've ever stayed at, but the mountain biking was so much fun we didn't care! Hiking and biking was an A+," shares Penny M. about her experience at Panther Creek.
Lake fishing access: Douglas Dam Headwater Campground provides direct lake access for anglers. "Great place to camp and be right on the water. Only downfall was only 1 shower in the bathhouse but bathrooms were clean and never too long of a wait for the shower," mentions Tammy F. The campground includes a camp store with fishing supplies and boat rentals.
Historic ghost town exploration: When staying at Elkmont Campground, take time to visit the adjacent Daisy Town ghost town. This collection of abandoned vacation cottages provides a glimpse into the area's past. Several of the buildings are open for exploration while others are undergoing renovation.
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: Greenbrier Campground stands out for its exceptional bathroom amenities. "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," reports one visitor.
Waterfront camping sites: Many campers specifically request riverside or lakefront sites. "We had a site #16 and it 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," notes Erica F. about Greenbrier Campground.
Quieter alternatives to crowded parks: Cosby Campground provides a less crowded option compared to other Smoky Mountain campgrounds. "This location is a great choice for anyone who wants to visit GSMNP while avoiding some of the crowds. This campground rarely fills up, allowing for the opportunity to pick your site when you get there," explains Janine B.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening wildlife sightings enhance the camping experience. "Lots of wildlife here, even a rescued barred owl to view near the gift shop," writes Dusty W. about Panther Creek State Park. Early risers might spot deer, wild turkey, and various bird species across area campgrounds.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the area have spotty cell coverage due to the mountainous terrain. "Cell service wasn't great for me here, but then again in all the Smoky Mountains I cruised around with pretty much 1 bar or less," mentions Crystal C. about Elkmont Campground.
TVA campground shower limitations: The Tennessee Valley Authority campgrounds like Cherokee Dam Campground often have limited shower facilities. "I've noticed the TVA campgrounds don't have many showers, so I was glad to have that in our camper, just be aware, you might have to wait for one if you are tent camping," cautions Lori H.
Environmental conditions: Weather and insects require preparation. "Though if you come in the summer look out for ticks. Panther Creek is notorious for ticks. I pulled 6 off of me in one day," warns Dusty W. Insect repellent and proper clothing become essential during warmer months.
Seasonal availability: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. Elkmont typically closes from November through March, while Douglas Dam campgrounds operate from mid-April to October. Some private campgrounds like Anchor Down RV Resort maintain a March through December season.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Douglas Dam Tailwater Campground features swimming areas ideal for families with children. "There is a playground and a swimming area, lots of picnic spots, kayak rentals, etc. Several people were walking/running across the dam," shares Lori H. The designated swimming areas provide safer alternatives to open lake swimming.
Kid-friendly activities: Parks offer structured recreation beyond camping. "In the summer with the lake and the private beach. People are so nice!! Every Saturday in October, campers decorate their site and hand out candy to the costumed campers! My kids LOVED that," explains Becca O. about Anchor Down RV Resort.
Playground accessibility: Many campgrounds feature updated playground equipment. "Great campground for families to spend time at. For a lesser known state park, they have a lot of amenities. Playgrounds, hiking, horseback trails, mountain bike trails, tennis courts, disc golf, baseball field, volleyball, lake access, swimming pool," notes Dusty W. about Panther Creek.
Food storage protocols: Families should prepare for strict food storage rules in bear country. All food items must be secured in vehicles or hard-sided containers when not in use. Some walk-in tent sites at Elkmont provide food storage lockers, but these are limited in number.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for size constraints: Douglas Dam Headwater Campground accommodates larger RVs with level sites. "We have stayed here multiple times. It's about 15 minutes from pigeon forge. Great prices and nice clean spots with lot of room," reports Sarah F. Most sites feature water and electric hookups with select locations offering full hookups.
Campground accessibility: Consider road conditions when planning routes to campgrounds. "There is a railroad tunnel on the route our GPS took us, so if you are pulling a camper, you will be able to take a side road and go around the tunnel," advises Nate H. about accessing Cherokee Dam campground.
Hookup availability: Full hookup options vary significantly between campgrounds. Panther Creek offers 50 full-hookup sites while others provide only partial connections. "Panther creek has great hiking trails, pool, playground fire pits and so much more! The campground tends to be quiet and relaxed and has full hookups on some of the sites along with a nice little store and the dump station," notes Bill P.
Reservation requirements: Most RV-friendly campgrounds require advance reservations, especially during peak seasons from May through October. Private campgrounds like Anchor Down RV Resort often book months in advance. "It is so hard to get a reservation here, so we decided to take what we could get so we could try it out!" shares Beth H.
Legend
