37 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Tent campgrounds around Oliver Springs, Tennessee include both primitive and developed options, from backcountry sites to wooded tent campsites with amenities. Windrock Ridge Campground provides wooded tent sites with fire rings and picnic tables, while Rock Creek Campground in the Obed Wild and Scenic River area offers 11 primitive tent-only sites along the river. The North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area's Royal Blue Unit also provides backcountry tent camping opportunities approximately 25 miles north of Oliver Springs.
Most tent sites in this region feature basic amenities with varying levels of development. Rock Creek Campground includes vault toilets, bear-proof food lockers, and lantern hooks, but no potable water. Windrock Ridge offers more facilities including a bath house at some sites. Sites throughout the area typically include fire rings where fires are permitted. The terrain varies significantly, with some tent pads requiring careful site selection. According to feedback on The Dyrt, "Not all sites are level so ask to drive through and preview available spots before booking." Many backcountry tent sites require hikers to bring all necessary supplies including water treatment equipment.
The camping experience near Oliver Springs provides ready access to outdoor recreation. The Cumberland Trail passes directly through Rock Creek Campground, offering hiking opportunities right from tent sites. Burnt Mill Bridge Loop, rated highly by tent campers, features riverside camping with proximity to scenic rock formations and small waterfalls. Tent sites along waterways provide fishing access and swimming opportunities during warmer months. The Obed area is particularly noted for rock climbing and paddling opportunities. One reviewer noted that "The trail is not super crowded and definitely worth seeing," highlighting the relative solitude available in many camping areas. Most primitive tent sites offer good separation from neighboring campers, though established campgrounds can become crowded during peak seasons.
"After checking it out and realizing we were unprepared to set up a tent in a gravel mud puddle we checked out frozen head's campground and it was so nice."
"There is a primitive tent area along a creek branch and there are some primitive hike-in areas) Tennessee seems to have a thing for larger rock pieces in their gravel on tent platforms... otherwise no"
"Site 26 is good for rooftop tent camping. Shade in afternoon and plenty of room for additional vehicles. Fire ring has a movable grate that is good to cook on."
"I’m in a truck camper with a rooftop tent."
from $20 - $49 / night
Check Availability"Great campground with very friendly and helpful rangers. Was pretty empty the night we were there."
"The ranger was very friendly when we checked in. The site was a great site for winter camping, since the loop beside it was closed for the season (so there was only one neighbor)."
"The campsites have a fire ring, picnic bench, and lantern pole. Each campsite has their little parking space except site 9, 10, and 11."
"It's a primitive campground with 11 sites for tents only. RVs are not allowed. There is a restroom for campers with pit style toilets."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"I went backpacking with a friend and our dogs. We decided to camp out at Burnt Mill Loop. The trail goes mostly along the water. You will see stunning Rock formations and some smaller waterfalls."
"But there’s several campsites around the area, and you can choose one that’s easier to access if you’d like. We went down near the river, and camped and did some fishing."
"I recently learned that TVA land is free to camp on, so I sought out some close to me and found Fork Bend. If you want to get away from people, this place is for you."
"Disclaimer: I pack heat whenever I am alone.)
The site was pretty much shaded by the forest canopy throughout the day, with full sun toward the edge of the water."
"This spot is kid and tent friendly with a boat ramp and beautiful small lake with lots of fishing opportunities."
"This is a medium size campground which offers both RV and tent camping. There is a recreational facility which can be used for day use as well. Overall everything is grassy green and beautiful."
"We were limited on site selection with our rooftop tent, and I saw a couple teardrop campers, but you can’t take anything larger."
"Big bundles of good firewood. Wifi only at the brewery area which is perfectly fine for my camping style. They even had a band Friday night. I’ll definitely be back."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"I just did an overnighter here but it was quiet, good space between spots,access to bathhouse and good fire rings. Nothing bad to say about it."
"My site was covered in dried mud, cigarette butts all over. They don't seem to clean the sites much. Showers/restrooms need better cleaning."
"Dog friendly, quiet and patrolled by state park rangers, and Jellico police. The picnic tables and fire rings are oddly placed at some campsites. Camp store was only open Sat & Sun."
TravelerBeautiful spot in the smoky mountains. State park style amenities, no showers. No hookups. Very busy very open campground. Nice that some trails are walking distance from campground. I would not camp here again. No cell service.
GuideDrove 5 hrs from our last campground to here for event Campground was very well maintained and liked the site. Wasn’t overly crazy about the event not a lot of vendors mainly jeeps went to a few local shops in town had a great lunch at the cookie dough monster.
TravelerFantastic National Park! Elkmont is really nice but lacking in hookups and there are no showers. Hard to stay too long without power, water, sewer and showers. Still, an amazing site along the river!
TravelerThis worked well for us while we were visiting Dollywood in our trailer, but we wouldn't stay here if we had been in a different type of site. Cons: Unless you have a site up against the river or on patriot park, you are packed in VERY TIGHT with other people, sometimes with your sliders only a foot or two away from your neighbor's sliders. We were in a site that was "on patriot park", but the few first sites of that type are really just behind the trolley parking lot and pick up with a path behind you (including ours). People are on the other side of the fence walking about two feet behind you all day and pretty late in to the night. Pros: There are lot of trees and campground is very pretty. Super close to Dollywood and other Pigeon Forge points of interest.
ScoutThis was a very nice campground! The tent areas are partially gravel so it helped the area be less muddy after rain. Beautiful view of the river and would be a great place to fish! Bathrooms are very nice! Comes with a nice fire pit and didn’t have to use own grate! Pet friendly! Staff was very nice and helpful!
Only complaint was some of their quiet hours were confusing. The quiet hours on the email said 10pm to 7am but then sign posted at bathroom was 11pm-7am for quiet hours.
GuideThis is our number one favorite place to camp. We are from Knoxville, TN and if we are wanting to camp for the weekend but avoid the drive, this is where we come! Area 1 site 25 is our favorite and we are super excited to stay at 108 and 109 in the future. The campground is beautiful. Area 1 is shaded with plenty of trees around making it feel like you're in a little forest, and of course fall is wonderful. Some sites have sewer. I have T-mobile cell phone and I have 3 bars at 5g and my husband has xfinity and has 2 bars at 4G.
Love this campground!
ScoutIt was such a great weekend getaway!! The bathrooms were nice and clean. We stayed in spot 20 and it was perfect! The staff were so kind and helpful. Overall great campsite
GuideWe really enjoyed our stay at Gateway RV Campground! After spending plenty of time on the road, it’s always nice to find somewhere you can park up, relax, and feel at home.
The campground has a lovely, relaxed atmosphere and was a great place to unwind.
One of the real bonuses is the trolley that stops right outside the campground office. What a fantastic convenience! It makes getting out and exploring the local area so much easier without having to pack everything up and take the RV. Such a simple touch, but one that makes a big difference when you’re traveling.
We’ve stayed at plenty of RV parks during our travels, and it’s often the little things that make a place stand out.
All in all, a very enjoyable stay, and we’d happily return if we’re passing through the area again. Definitely worth a stop!
TravelerI had a brain fart and screwed up our dates and needed just one night last minute. Their online booking won’t take reservations less than 24 hours in advance. Quick call and they had us a spot and even offered early check in if we wanted it.
I appreciated a table and chairs instead of a picnic table. We had a little shade. Hookups were middle of the pad… super easy.
Lots to do right in the park. Well maintained and good location. We will try to stay longer next time.
Tent camping options surrounding Oliver Springs, Tennessee include primitive sites along mountain ridges and waterfront locations with variable accessibility. The area sits at the edge of the Cumberland Plateau with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,500 feet, creating diverse camping conditions. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall offer milder camping weather with temperatures between 55-75°F.
Kayaking and water sports: Access the Obed River directly from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River, which features 11 primitive tent sites. "The Obed area is very inviting for fishing, hiking, and rock climbing. There are trails that start right from the campground," reports camper Katrin M.
Dark sky stargazing: The Obed area offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. "This is a dark sky park, a neat thing to experience," notes Larry in his review of Rock Creek Campground. Pack a star chart or astronomy app to identify constellations visible from your tent.
Off-road adventures: The North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area provides terrain for ATVs and hiking. "The area is large, so you can definitely find a great spot to camp. We chose a spot that someone had used previously and made a fire pit. We were on top of a ridge," shares Nate H. from his experience at North Cumberland WMA- Royal Blue Unit.
Secluded waterfront sites: Many campers praise the shoreline locations. "We found a great spot right on the lake. It was very peaceful and perfect for the dogs to swim," wrote Katrin M. about Burnt Mill Bridge Loop. This area features multiple riverside camping options with swimming access.
Fishing access: Norris Lake and nearby rivers provide fishing opportunities directly from campsites. "We're going back out again next weekend and this time we're bringing the fishing rods," mentioned Pinky S. about her experience at TVA Public Land- Fork Bend.
Brewery camping experience: Unique to the area, the Lilly Pad Campground combines tent camping with an on-site brewery. "You can't beat a campsite with a brewery attached. Wonderful climbing spots only a short jot away. My favorite spots are along the bluff," reports Tyler J. This combines two popular activities for many adult campers.
Variable road conditions: Many of the best tent camping near Oliver Springs, Tennessee requires navigating unpaved roads. "The road was pretty rough in some places so I would recommend having 4wd just to be safe," advises Lori H. about accessing campsites at North Cumberland WMA.
Limited facilities: Most tent sites offer minimal amenities. "There is no electricity or water at the campground. The vault toilet had no flushing water but was clean and didn't have a smell," notes Katrin M. about Rock Creek. Pack accordingly with sufficient water or treatment equipment.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat and humidity can be challenging. "The mosquitoes were BAD. I sprayed down in deet multiple times and still had at least a dozen bites," reports Holly about Lilly Pad Campground. Spring and fall typically offer more comfortable camping conditions.
Site selection: When tent camping with children, consider established campgrounds with basic facilities. "The campsites have a fire ring, picnic bench, and lantern pole. Each campsite has their little parking space except site 9, 10, and 11," notes Katrin M. about Rock Creek Campground.
Water activities: Riverside camping provides entertainment for children. "It was very peaceful and perfect for the dogs to swim," shares Katrin M. about Burnt Mill Loop. Most waterfront sites offer shallow entry points, but always supervise children near water.
Terrain challenges: Some trails may be difficult for younger children. "The terrain is ROUGH! Especially with a pack. There are ladders, stairs, scrambling, rocks, and steep terrain," warns Lori H. about Burnt Mill Bridge Loop Backcountry. Research trail difficulty before planning hikes with small children.
Access limitations: Most primitive tent sites near Oliver Springs cannot accommodate RVs. "It's perfect for tents. We were limited on site selection with our rooftop tent, and I saw a couple teardrop campers, but you can't take anything larger," explains Lori H. about Lilly Pad Campground.
Alternative RV options: For those with RVs seeking the best camping near Oliver Springs, consider established campgrounds slightly farther away. "Not all sites are level so ask to drive through and preview available spots before booking," advises a camper about Windrock Ridge Campground.
Hookup availability: Most camping areas near Oliver Springs lack hookups for RVs. Even at campgrounds that accept small RVs, come prepared for boondocking. "There are open sky spots around the bathhouse if you need solar or satellite. Those are all flat," notes Stoked C. about Windrock Ridge Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Oliver Springs, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Oliver Springs, TN is Frozen Head State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 32 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Oliver Springs, TN?
TheDyrt.com has all 37 tent camping locations near Oliver Springs, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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