The Cumberland Plateau near Rockwood, Tennessee averages 2,000 feet in elevation with dense forest cover and multiple water features across the region. Campgrounds typically offer access to interconnected trail systems ranging from beginner-friendly paths to advanced routes with significant elevation changes. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing while summer nights typically remain comfortable in the mid-60s even after hot days.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: Fall Creek Falls State Park features multiple waterfall destinations with varying difficulty levels. The cable trail provides a unique hiking experience, as noted by camper Tyler J.: "Plenty of hikes that lead to wonderful waterfalls and great scenery. My favorite is the cable trail. If I recall it's not far from the campsite."
Night sky observation: The region includes dark sky viewing areas where light pollution is minimal. At Bandy Creek Campground, Tyler J. reports: "Camped here a few years ago and got wonderful night sky shots. Definitely worth a stay if you're visiting Big South Fork." Bring a camera with manual settings to capture star trails.
River activities: Multiple water access points provide fishing and paddling opportunities throughout the warmer months. At Gee Creek Campground, Anna M. notes: "A trail runs the perimeter of the camp and the Hiwasee River runs next to the campground... I definitely recommend if you're looking for a place to stay near the Hiwasee River."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain high standards for bathroom and shower facilities. At Bandy Creek Campground, Carissa D. mentioned: "Paved spots with lots of shade. Bathrooms are clean. Bathhouse has an outside sink and a water bottle fountain to refill your bottles."
Multiple accommodation types: From primitive sites to full amenities, the area offers varied camping experiences. At Toqua Beach Campground, Timothy T. shares: "They have gravel lots that are somewhat level. We stayed at site 104... There is a Beach area with volleyball. We didn't have much luck fishing but we tried anyway."
Trail connectivity: Several campgrounds provide direct access to trail networks without driving. Rebecca P. from Fall Creek Falls State Park notes: "There is a great trail that connects the campgrounds with the Woodland Trail. Once you've parked at the campground, there's no need to get in your car until you leave!"
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping options exist but with reduced amenities. Byron R. advises about Gee Creek Campground: "During winter campground is very quiet, no power at sites, it does have hot showers."
Site selection importance: Some campground areas receive mixed reviews depending on site location. Andrea S. cautions about Fall Creek Falls: "Avoid area C at all costs... The camp slots on area C are so close to one another that most people couldn't use their fire pits for fear of burning their own tent, or their neighbor's."
Reservation planning: Popular weekends fill quickly, especially at established state parks. Jason W. from Anderson County Park notes: "I spent the long Thanksgiving weekend here. Other campgrounds in the area were closed, but this one is open year round. Bathrooms and showers remain open as well."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Some campgrounds specifically cater to newer campers. Sandra V. recommends Fall Creek Falls State Park: "We love to camp at Fall Creek Falls State Park and think this would be a great park for novice campers due to the fact that the facilities are very nice. Modern bathhouses located in each camping area, swimming pool, golf course and restaurant make roughing it easier for those who need more comfort while camping."
Age-appropriate campground selection: Not all campgrounds work equally well for all age groups. Chelsea D. cautions: "Not the best place for toddlers, but perfect for adults with older children! The sites are pretty private and mostly wooded. There were acorns everywhere that our littles kept getting ahold of, and most of the trails are much longer than 2 miles."
Activity variety: Campgrounds with diverse recreational options keep children engaged. Brandie D. shares about Fall Creek Falls: "The campgrounds are spacious and have great clean bathrooms. The park itself has a scenic loop drive of the gorge, multiple waterfalls to visit, miles on end of hiking trails in which some cross rope bridges, awesome swimming holes, and even an olympic pool with diving boards and a snack shack for the kiddos."
Tips for RVers
Site leveling: Some campgrounds require significant adjustment for RVs. Richard F. advises about Fall Creek Falls: "Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out. We are definitely going back in summer to get wet in the falls and creeks. Arrived in the dark, do not recommend as there are not much lighting to see especially if the sites is tight with others."
Equestrian camping near Rockwood, Tennessee: For those traveling with horses and RVs, specialized campgrounds offer dedicated facilities. At True West Campground & Stables, Heather S. reports: "Beautiful campground, nice level spots that are easy to get in and out of, dump station on site which was very easy to get to. Barns are well kept and clean... Free sawdust to campers for their stalls. Water all throughout the barn and easy to get to."
Horse trail accommodation: The region features several horse-friendly camping destinations with direct trail access. Jason M. from East Fork Stables mentions: "Campground has Cabins, Bunk house, full hook-ups and primitive spots. There are stalls and tie lines with round pens and paddocks scattered around. Trail system is wonderful with all the views anyone could ask for."
