Ooltewah is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Ooltewah, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Ooltewah camping trip.
Resting on the western edge of northwest Georgia’s Lookout Mountain, Cloudland Canyon State Park is more than 3,000 acres—one of the state’s largest parks—of rugged geology, and offers visitors hiking, camping, rock climbing and more along the park’s most iconic feature: the deep gorge cut through the mountain (elevation varies from 800 to more than 1,800 feet!) by the Sitton Gulch Creek. Multiple waterfalls and cascades, including the uber-popular Hemlock Falls, can be found throughout the gorge, making this park feel like a hidden gem around Lookout Mountain.
Staring at the geographic anomaly isn’t the only thing to do at this park, however. Beyond the countless miles of hiking, biking and horse riding trails, geology fanatics can find rock climbing, rappelling and spelunking across the park—cave tours are even offered for beginning cave explorers at Sitton’s Cave.
The park holds a massive variety of camping options, including 72 spots suitable for both tent and RV campers, 30 walk-in sites, 13 dispersed sites, 16 cottages and 10 yurts, each in a different area of the park. With this many options, campers can find seclusion all around.
$65 / night
$21 - $30 / night
Fall Creek Falls State Park is one of Tennessee’s largest and most visited state parks. The park encompasses more than 29,800 acres sprawled across the eastern top of the rugged Cumberland Plateau. Laced with cascades, gorges, waterfalls, streams and lush stands of virgin hardwood timber, the park beckons those who enjoy nature at her finest. Fall Creek Falls, at 256 feet, is one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States. Other waterfalls within the park include Piney Falls, Cane Creek Falls, and Cane Creek Cascades. The park is located in Bledsoe and Van Buren counties, 11 miles east of Spencer and 18 miles west of Pikeville. It may be entered from Highway 111 or Highway 30.
In 1937, the federal government began purchasing the badly eroded land around Fall Creek Falls. The following year, the Works Progress Administration and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) began restoring the forest and constructing park facilities. A few years later in 1944, the National Park Service transferred ownership of the park to the State of Tennessee.
Fall Creek Falls features 30 cabins, 222 campsites, and the 85-room Lodge Fall Creek Falls. Backcountry camping is also available with a permit.
The park is home to a variety of activities suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities. Hikers can opt for short or long walks around the lake and to the base of Fall Creek Falls. There are two long-distance overnight trails for adventure-seeking visitors while the day-use trails are designed to accommodate recreational and educational activities for all ages. More than 56 miles of trails can be explored.
$8 - $32 / night
Fort Mountain State Park is a place of legends. Literally! Home to an mysterious, ancient, rock wall at the peak of a mountain, Fort Mountain’s associated legends include the construction of a Welsh military fort, a honeymoon destination for native newlyweds, and a relation to “moon-eyed people” of Cherokee folklore. Whatever the truth may be, there is no denying that this park’s unique features have made it one of the major draws within the Chattahoochee National Forest.
Located just a short scenic drive off of Highway 52 near the Cohuatta Wilderness, the campground at Fort Mountain State Park hosts 70 campsites for tents and RVs. Campers can bring their paddles to take advantage of all 17 acres of Fort Mountain Lake, or take part in the local rental program for easier travels.
While there is no need to leave the park to find adventure, many campers take a short drive east to a historic site featuring the Chief Vann House. This well-preserved structure was the first Cherokee brick residence and is often referred to as the “showplace” of the Cherokee Nation. Continue your travels to the peak of Fort Mountain where you can take a tour of a stone fire tower built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression. Enjoy panoramic views and marvel at the legendary beauty of Fort Mountain State Park.
$8 - $110 / night
$55 / night
Located in the Chilhowee Recreation Area, Chilhowee Campground offers a multitude of camping opportunities for both RV and tent sites, many with electric hookups. The day-use area includes McKamy Lake, a swim area with sand beach, picnic sites, a group picnic area, and a bathhouse.__ Be Aware; Do not use GPS directions: GPS coordinates will direct you up Benton Springs Rd. This route is not recommended. We recommend using Forest Service Road 77 to reach the recreation area. It's important to note, this facility requires driving 7 miles up to Chilhowee Campground on a narrow, winding road. Do not use the Benton Springs Access Road to the campground as this is an unpaved and dangerous road for RVs. Inexperienced RV drivers may have difficulties getting to and around the site.
Chilhowee Recreation Area is an excellent hub for hiking and mountain biking in the Chilhowee Trails System, fishing in McKamy Lake, and wildlife viewing without having to get in your car. The 7-acre McKamy Lake offers a swim area with a sand beach, and fishing from the bank. Boats are allowed, but gasoline motors are not. Within the recreation area are approximately 25 miles of hiking and biking trails, and a scenic waterfall. The views and lake are beautiful, especially hiking to Benton Falls via a 1.5 mile in and out moderate trail. On the drive up to the campground, stop at one of the many observation overlooks to see beautiful mountain settings. Wildlife is abundant in this area, so have your camera ready and tread lightly.__ Chilhowee Recreation Area Map and Guide____
Chilhowee Recreation Area is an excellent hub for hiking and mountain biking in the Chilhowee Trails System, fishing in McKamy Lake, and wildlife viewing without having to get in your car. The 7-acre McKamy Lake offers a swim area with a sand beach, and fishing from the bank. Boats are allowed, but gasoline motors are not. Within the recreation area are approximately 25 miles of hiking and biking trails, and a scenic waterfall. The views and lake are beautiful, especially hiking to Benton Falls via a 1.5 mile in and out moderate trail. On the drive up to the campground, stop at one of the many observation overlooks to see beautiful mountain settings. Wildlife is abundant in this area, so have your camera ready and tread lightly.__ Chilhowee Recreation Area Map and Guide____
The Cherokee National Forest is located in eastern Tennessee and stretches from Chattanooga to Bristol along the North Carolina border. The 650,000-acre swath of land is Tennessee's only national forest. It lies in the heart of the Southern Appalachians and is home to more than 20,000 species of plants and animals, as well as many rivers, creeks and lakes.__
In addition to the immediate local activities, world class whitewater rafting opportunities are nearby on the Ocoee and Hiwassee Rivers.
$20 / night
Our wooded campground encompasses our 30-acre resort; it’s large and spacious with level sites to accommodate groups of any size. We provide the campsite while you bring your own equipment. Tent camping is primitive; there is no running water or electricity on site. However, the bath house is open 24 hours a day and is equipped with restrooms and hot showers.
Also, we have full hookup RV sites for the more civilized campers. We have 30 and 50 amp hookups to provide electricity and water for each site that can house different types of RVs. We have sites of all sizes to accommodate everyone from the tiny popup camper to the large motorhome. For your convenience, there is a dump station located near the campground for easy disposal.
The Adventures Unlimited campground offers guests the privacy of a secluded area and the convenience of walking to our office and retail shop for whitewater rafting and bath house. We are also located right next to The Bus Bar and Grill which hosts delicious eats, craft beers and cocktails and live music on the weekends.
The Cherokee National Forest is right up the road from us and offers everything from whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River, hiking and mountain bike trails and the beautiful Parksville Lake to explore and enjoy
$10 - $45 / night
We arrived and we got to pick out our own campsite. Thanks to the friendly and helpful staff. Bathrooms were clean and the showers were warm water beautiful tall trees provided shade. Scenic Drive was stunning.
Beautiful peaceful camping ground. Walking distance to Sitton Gulch. Campground was clean and the staff is very friendly. Waterfalls were dry at the time of our visit, but it was still a beautiful site.
We loved this State Park. The campsites were pristine, spacious, and well-planned. We enjoyed the hiking trails and reconnecting with nature. There was an on-site camp store with everything we needed.
I didn’t get the chance to have an experience because they would not even rent to me because I have mixed breed rescue dogs.
Great location near I-75. Just stayed for a quick overnight.
Plenty of spacious campsites, an easy hike (almost too short!) from the visitor center. Rustic, dispersed, but close enough to other people so you don’t feel absolutely stranded!
Great place to camp near the cloudland canyon. The campsite 8 that we camped on was far from parking and restroom, so you might wanna choose the sites near to parking. Be prepared to carry things for quite a walk. Bring something to carry water to your site from water filling station near the restrooms. But, the campsites are well spaced so you will have the privacy you need. There are lots of beautiful hiking places nearby.
The sites are very close together here and you can expect it to usually be booked up. However, the facilities are in great condition and there are lots of short trails to amazing vistas.
They also sell $6 firewood, which is the cheapest I’ve seen in a while. Checking in is confusing because they don’t send you any info on what to do or how to get to your site (there’s two campgrounds, don’t go to the wrong one). You are supposed to stop at the visitor center to check in.
The park is beautiful with a nice modern campground. The sites are very nice. The bathroom and showers are very new and well-maintained. The views of the canyon below are breathtaking. There are wonderful trails leading down tobthr valley the views of waterfalls.
The name has changed to Smitty's Lodge & CG. I found this awesome campground close to the beginning of the Cherohala skyway in Tellico Plains. Includes picnic table, fire pit and some chairs (they also sell firewood), clean restrooms and showers, use of refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, and super nice hosts. I highly recommend visiting this campground. I stayed in a tent, but they do have cabins for rent also. Campsites are level and spacious.
Quiet campground tucked away on Lookout Mountain, with super friendly and helpful staff. The campground is very well maintained, has a large pool, playground and giant in-ground bounce ballon for the kids, and a fenced in dog park complete with slides and playground equipment for dogs! There is a walking trails around the campground. The bathroom\shower house was impressive to say the least, very clean and renovated.
We’ve stayed at this campground several times over the past 20 years. It has actually improved since our last visit 7-8 years ago. Bathrooms/showers are very nice…each guest gets a private room with shower, sink and toilet. Dog park is very nice, and trails are good. Campground is quite hilly but our site (15 pull through) was level. Only suggestion would be a better stocked store.
This place may be seasonal and have limited hours but oh what a treat it is to make this part of your boating experience on Watts Bar Lake. They feature Monkey Towns local brews out of Dayton,TN. The view is worth the climb up the stairs from the lake to the dining area.
We stayed in the West Rim Campground and i love the way it's laid out. Site 34 has multi levels, one for the camper, one which could be a sitting or tent area, and one for the firepit. It backs up to woods but also has an open area that you could play numerous games(cornhole, football, frisbee etc) It also has a picnic table, grill and fire ring(all were in amazing shape). We purchased firewood from the visitor center but you can also purchase from camp host. Currently it's$6 a bundle and they keep it in a cute little outhouse looking storage building lol. It is a very clean, well maintained and quiet(while we were there) campground. If you are even slightly considering staying here, just go ahead and book it. It's an amazing campground surrounded by an equally amazing State Park.
Great experience! Our first time out in new to us RV. Went over President’s Day weekend. Myself, Husband & our four boys (5, 16, 19, 21) had a great time relaxing by the fire, jumping on inflatables at playground and gathering firewood in the woods. Site was roomy and very clean. Great crew in the office helpful & super nice. Would recommend!
First time to this State Park, but won’t be the last. Large pull through sites with fire pits, grills, picnic tables, and lantern poles. Close proximity to several hiking trails with sweeping vistas and gorgeous waterfalls. Clean and warm bathrooms/shower house. Friendly hosts.
Our spot was near bathroom and the area was clean. Good hikes nearby. I had good cell reception as well with Verizon so was able to watch a little college football on Saturday.m
COUNTY PARK campground surrounded by water with a 5thmountain view. Great travel stop off I-24 Interstate hwy. Call and tell them your coming they will save a spot for you. I've always called weeks ahead to reserve a spotthey just write down your name and planned nights to stay with assigned site number. Very friendly. ELECTRIC and WATER w/dump station in park. Shower house has key pad entry lock for campers.
Good site. Ground is slanted but the walk was easy. Our 4 year old had no issue and neither did I even with a pack and being 4 months pregnant
This place seems to have it all. The hikes are diverse from walking along the edge of a canyon with beautiful vistas to trekking through the gulch with canyon walls towering overhead. The waterfalls are beautiful too although they were all but non-existent after the recent dry weather. The campsites offer good privacy with clean facilities.
I gave my transmission a work out climbing up the mountain to get here. Site 49 was a beautiful lakefront site with the lake trail conveniently next to my site. W/E only, dumpsite outside the campground. Hiking trails accessible from the campground. Bears were active in the area. Lots to do nearby, but the surroundings were so beautiful, we really enjoyed just being in the campground.
The last time I camped at Pocket Rec Area was a few years ago. Since then, they've added picnic tables, metal fire rings with grill grates, and lantern poles at the campsites, as well as bear-proof trash bins and water spigots scattered throughout the campground. There's a centrally-located bathroom, no showers. The driveways are asphalt now, used to just be dirt. A ranger came by and told us they plan to add electric hookups in 2025. In 2024, reservations will be made online through Recreation.gov, but the ranger told us they would still allow same-day reservations.
We stayed for two nights in October and felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. There were only a few other campers, none near us. With ATB senior pass, we paid $7.50/night.
All the sites are heavily wooded and most have trees or large rocks very close on both sides of the driveway. The driveways are not straight, so you have to jog to one side halfway through backing in. It's tricky to make that slight turn while avoiding the trees and rocks. We weren't able to extend our awning all the way because of the trees. If you have slides, you may not be able to put them out.
There is an easy trail inside the campground and several more not far from the entrance.
Recent updates, nice pads, full hookups, good cell service
Pretty view. Kind of a bad smell. Bath houses are hit or miss
We came in late one night the staff is super friendly. Clean bath house too
Wonderful place, hot water, clean sites. They have a daily trash service and several stores to visit
Alum Gap campground, situated in the backcountry of Tennessee, is not only a hidden gem but also a perfect choice for those new to backpacking. Accessible via a straightforward hike of just a little over one mile from the Greeter Falls parking area, this primitive camping site offers an inviting introduction to the world of wilderness adventures. Each campsite provides a generously sized designated area, offering ample space for multiple tents and featuring an established fire ring. However, be prepared for a rustic experience, as there are no bathroom facilities or other man-made structures in sight.
During my visit over Labor Day weekend, I found the campground to be remarkably uncrowded, indicating that it is less frequented by campers. Most of the campsites are surrounded by trees and offer a serene woodland setting. However, a mere half-mile down the trail, the landscape opens up to reveal a breathtaking viewpoint that offers a stunning look out at the canyon. On my hike there, I encountered a small creek, which served as a sufficient water source. Depending on recent rainfall, you might need to collect water back at the Greeter Falls area. One noteworthy aspect is that there aren't any clear distinctions between the different available sites; they all offer a satisfying camping experience.
Exploring the waterfalls in the area is an absolute must. These natural wonders, especially on a scorching hot day, offer the perfect opportunity to cool off with a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear pools at their base. Furthermore, you'll be pleased to know that cell phone service is excellent, thanks to the location atop the plateau. To ensure a smooth camping experience, make sure to reserve a site in advance.
In summary, Alum Gap campground provides a remote and tranquil wilderness camping experience in Tennessee, with an easy access trail that makes it an ideal introductory backpacking option. While amenities are minimal, the campground's seclusion, beautiful surroundings, and nearby attractions, including scenic viewpoints and waterfalls, make it a remarkable destination for nature enthusiasts. Don't forget to plan ahead and secure your reservation for an unforgettable backcountry adventure.
Camping near Ooltewah, Tennessee, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.
Camping near Ooltewah, Tennessee, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's a spot waiting for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Ooltewah, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Ooltewah, TN is Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 126 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Ooltewah, TN?
TheDyrt.com has all 40 glamping camping locations near Ooltewah, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
