The Oak Ridge area offers several camping options within a 30-mile radius, situated in the Tennessee Valley region where average summer temperatures reach 85°F and winter lows typically hover around 28°F. Most campgrounds stay open year-round, though water facilities at some locations close during winter months when overnight temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Water recreation access: Melton Hill Dam Campground provides direct access to the reservoir where visitors can fish and swim. "Nice walking trail, large RV sites, nice water area," notes Scott H. who stayed during an eclipse viewing.
Mountain biking opportunities: Windrock Campground connects to extensive trail systems for off-road enthusiasts. "Miles and miles of trails. General store, beautiful overlooks," says Nick C., who found it ideal for off-road experiences.
Hiking with waterfall views: Frozen Head State Park offers trails with varying difficulty levels leading to scenic waterfalls. "If you are able, make sure to hike to the Lookout Tower! This is a great park and campground if you want to experience the beauty of East Tennessee without the crowds of the Smoky Mountains," shares Jessica L.
What campers like
Lakefront camping spots: At Yarberry Campground, campers appreciate the water access. "The day use area is nice, with a roped off swimming area, kayak rentals, picnic tables, a basketball court, etc. there's also a boat launch for boats," mentions Lori H.
Clean facilities: Many visitors to Frozen Head State Park Campground comment on the well-maintained bathrooms. "Bathhouse is beautiful with cedar stalls. Lots to do with the hiking. Waterfalls were beautiful and everyone we talked to was super helpful and nice," writes Brittni F.
Secluded tent sites: For those seeking more primitive camping sites near Oak Ridge, Tennessee, certain areas offer greater privacy. "We stayed at campsite 8 (primitive section) we loved the site, it was huge, and we had a great time," shares Liz A. about her experience at Frozen Head State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: At some locations, water levels change dramatically through the seasons. "This was just an overnight passing-through stay. Water was way down this time," notes one camper at Yarberry Campground.
Highway noise considerations: Several camping areas near Oak Ridge sit close to major roads. At Soaring Eagle Campground, one visitor mentioned, "We were very close to I-40 and the road noise was extremely loud...all day and all night." Sites further from highways tend to be quieter.
Varying site layouts: West Campground at Norris Dam has particular site configurations to consider. "We stayed at site #2 which was nice but had soft ground from prior rain. There were a lot of headlights on us from traffic entering the campground, even up til MIDNIGHT on Saturday," reports Greg L.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: West Campground offers designated swimming spots suitable for children. "Swimming, fishing, hiking, and mtb," lists Mickey L. as available activities.
Playground access: Some camping locations around Oak Ridge offer better play facilities than others. "Nice swimming/beach area but lacking playground for kids is why I give it 3 stars," notes Tyler about Yarberry Campground.
Water recreation rentals: Families can take advantage of equipment rentals at certain sites. At Yarberry Campground, "They also rent all of those things, as well as paddle boats. They rent bikes too. The store has firewood, essentials, floats, ice cream, etc.," according to a reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: At Melton Hill Dam Campground, RVers should prepare for uneven terrain. "The parking area is an asphalt slab and many have a slant to them and will require leveling," reports Sara M.
Spacing between sites: RV campers note that some campgrounds offer more room than others. At Volunteer Park Family Campground, "The sites were level, the park was clean, and the owners were nice," reports Crystal H., though others mention "narrow RV spaces" with spots that are "narrow in between the trees and other spots."
Full hookup availability: Many campgrounds near Oak Ridge offer complete services. "We had water, electric, sewer, and cable," notes a reviewer at Volunteer Park, though availability varies by specific site and campground.
