Harrison Bay State Park sits on the shores of Chickamauga Lake, part of the Tennessee River system, with over 40 miles of shoreline in the camping area. The elevation ranges from 700-800 feet, creating moderate temperature fluctuations between day and night, even in summer months. Camping conditions remain relatively stable year-round with the exception of spring thunderstorms that can develop quickly over the lake.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 4-mile round trip at Cloudland Canyon State Park: "A very picturesque and cool area. A lot of scrambling over rocks and high water debris, a lot of picture taking opportunities." The metal grate steps leading down to Hemlock Falls provide a challenging workout with substantial elevation change.
Fishing: Bass opportunities at Skull Island: "My husband caught several large mouth bass in the pond too (catch and release)." The small island setting creates sheltered fishing spots around the perimeter that work well for shoreline casting.
Primitive camping: Secluded sites at Prentice Cooper State Forest: "If you want to stay here you have to be there before dark as they close the gates at dark. It's basically like having your own small park in the middle of the mountains on a small bass pond." Gates typically close at sunset, so plan arrival accordingly.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Air-conditioned bathrooms at Harrison Bay State Park: "Spacious sites in D. AC bath houses!" The tent-only loop features modern washrooms with four separate shower/restroom combinations maintained throughout the day.
Easy water access: Lakefront sites at Chester Frost Park: "Love staying on the lake front and watching the sun set." Multiple sites provide direct water access where campers can launch kayaks directly from their campsite.
Wildlife viewing: Daily deer sightings at dog friendly campgrounds near Harrison like Fall Creek Falls State Park: "Add to this several beautiful waterfalls, daily deer sightings, a lovely fishing lake and bike trails and you have a park that appeals to many!" Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Chattanooga North-Cleveland KOA, "Sites are very close together so there is not much room to move around or have pets outside." Premium sites at the edges of loops typically offer more privacy.
Seasonal hazards: The mayfly season at Chester Frost Park can be intense, as one camper noted, "Quiet and peaceful, just stay away during mayfly spawning." May through early June typically sees the heaviest insect activity.
Weather preparedness: At Holiday Travel Park, "Many had standing water on a lot of sites, ours included. For one night it was manageable. Major drainage problem." Sites numbered in the 100s tend to drain better after heavy rain.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Man-made swimming area at Chester Frost Park: "This place is definitely somewhere you wanna bring your kids they would love it! There is a man made beach with a playground and loads of camping lots next to the river!" The beach area includes a roped-off swimming section with gradual depth changes.
Multiple playgrounds: Central location at pet friendly campgrounds near Harrison Bay: "Loop A is an RV loop with very little shade, and is closest to the playgrounds and picnic pavilions." Playground equipment suitable for ages 3-12, with separate areas for younger children.
Activity options: Rainy day alternatives at Fall Creek Falls State Park: "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." The nature center offers scheduled programs on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Tips from RVers
Level considerations: At Raccoon Mountain, "Site 212 was not level." Many campers recommend bringing extra leveling blocks for the hillside sites.
Hookup variations: At Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground, "Site 203 was not ideal for an RV our size. We weren't able to put our awnings out or comfortably sit outside. Next time, we'll see if it's possible to stay in site 226." Sites numbered in the 200s work better for larger rigs with slide-outs.
Ease of access: Holiday Travel Park offers "Clean and well maintained. Free WiFi, not all that good. Contactless check in. Online reservation." The pull-through sites can accommodate RVs up to 44 feet without disconnecting tow vehicles.
