RV camping near Reliance, Tennessee offers direct access to the Ocoee River watershed at 1,100 feet elevation. The area sits within Cherokee National Forest, where summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most campgrounds remain accessible from April through October, with some facilities closing during winter months due to mountain road conditions.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Chilhowee Recreation Area features a 3-mile round trip trail to Benton Falls with moderate difficulty. "We did the Benton Falls hike and it was lovely! Fall color was just peaking 🍂," notes one visitor at Chilhowee Recreation Area. For less trafficked options, "For a more secluded waterfall experience head to the Rainbow falls."
River activities: The Ocoee River offers class III-IV rapids during scheduled water releases from dams. "Great site. Easy to navigate around sites. Lots of shade. Close by Occoee White Water center where the Atlanta olympics took place. Plan your visit around the water release. There schedule is online," advises a camper from Parksville Lake RV Campground.
Mountain biking: Trail systems throughout Cherokee National Forest accommodate various skill levels. "25 miles of hiking and biking trails starting right from our campsite," reports one Chilhowee camper. Trails connect many campgrounds to larger forest networks, allowing for extended excursions.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Several sites at Parksville Lake follow natural waterways. "There are several sites along a beautiful little creek. It was peaceful, only the occasional car on the nearby road," according to one visitor. These sites fill quickly during peak season.
Spacious RV setups: Top of the World RV offers larger-than-average sites with mountain views. "HUGE spots, and that's even the 'small' ones. Great views. Great spot to wander a little with a pet & great WiFi," notes one camper at Top of the World RV. The campground sits at higher elevation, providing cooler temperatures in summer.
Fishing opportunities: Parksville Lake provides shore and boat fishing access. "The campground is also in close proximity to a lot of outdoor activities," mentions one reviewer. Bank fishing requires no additional permits beyond a Tennessee fishing license.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Mountain roads to campgrounds involve significant elevation changes. "To get to this campground you have to go up a steep narrow windy mountain road," warns a visitor at Chilhowee Recreation Area. Similarly, Top of the World RV has access considerations: "Getting to it can be tricky as TN-68 has steep grades and decent curves but is doable for all but the absolute longest of rigs."
Water hookup variations: Not all campgrounds offer direct water connections. At Overnite RV Park, "Water hook-up was a little wonky but the friendliness of the office staff made up for it." Chilhowee requires water tank filling: "No water hookups at the sites, only power (30A). You'll need to fill your fresh water tanks before you set up."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies by provider and elevation. "Cell service with T-Mobile not existent. They have WiFi but not very fast," reports one Top of the World RV guest. At Chilhowee: "There is no WiFi or AT&T cellular signal in this park. However, if you drive to any of the scenic overlooks just outside the park, you will get AT&T LTE signal."
Tips for camping with families
Campground loop selection: Different loops offer varying experiences for families. "Loops A&B are closest to the lake and looked great for groups, or folks with kids. Loops E&F were a bit more secluded, and better fit for couples, dogs that don't like a lot of passersby," explains a camper at Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Campfire regulations: Most established campgrounds permit fires in designated rings only. "Fire rings with grill grates" are standard at most facilities, though some may have seasonal restrictions during dry periods.
Bathroom facilities: Amenities vary significantly between campgrounds. "The bathroom and shower house is small and older, but very clean," notes a Parksville Lake visitor. Chilhowee offers "restroom for every 6-7 sites, so not too much traffic" and "showers were clean, hot and great water pressure."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. At Top of the World RV, "Because sites are loose gravel, leveling can be a challenge if your rig does not auto level." Bring additional leveling blocks for these situations.
Navigation timing: Plan arrivals during daylight hours when possible. "Overnite RV Park is one-lane dirt road leading in and out, sites aren't paved but it's a nice respite from I-75 and easy to find," notes a reviewer at Blue Moon RV Park.
Site selection for larger rigs: Research site dimensions before booking. "My friend who was there pulling a 5th wheel decided not to try it and opted to pay to dump somewhere else. I pull a 25ft travel trailer and had no problem, although it felt sketchy going into it," shares a Chilhowee camper regarding the campground's dump station access. At Whitewater RV Park - Ocoee TN, "The sites are level and concrete with a nice fire pit," making setup easier for larger vehicles.
