Camping opportunities near Rutledge, Tennessee center around Cherokee Lake, the Clinch River, and nearby mountain terrain. The area sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation with humid summers reaching into the 90s and mild winters with occasional snow. Campers can access several water bodies including Cherokee Lake's 400 miles of shoreline, offering diverse accommodations from primitive tent sites to upscale glamping options.
What to do
Hiking trails: Big Ridge State Park Campground offers scenic trails for all skill levels. "I've stayed at this site a couple times now and I love the location. The site is a short and easy hike (under 2 miles) from the parking lot via the Lake Trail to the Dark Hollow Trail," notes one visitor who enjoyed the backcountry camping option.
Water activities: Lakeside Getaway on Douglas provides direct lake access with paddlesport launches. "There is a sitting area and a dock with paddle sport launches. There is a wash house with toilet and sink but no showers yet," explains a camper who appreciated the convenient waterfront location.
Historic sites: Elkmont Campground connects to the Daisy Town ghost town where you can explore historic vacation homes. "One of the more intriguing areas to explore at Elkmont is the Daisy Town ghost town. Some are open for exploration, others are cordoned off, and some are undergoing renovation," a camper notes about this unique feature.
Wildlife viewing: Cades Cove offers exceptional wildlife spotting opportunities along its scenic loop. "I have never seen more black bear. It was a very safe distance we watched them about a football field away across a field pretty amazing experience," reports one visitor who observed wildlife safely.
What campers like
River access: Greenbrier Campground features sites backing directly to the Little Pigeon River. "The Little Pigeon River was just steps off the back of our camper. My kids enjoyed the swimming hike as well although the water was freezing," shares a visitor who appreciated the waterfront location.
Private bathroom facilities: Several campgrounds provide upgraded bathroom facilities. "The bath house appeared to be newer, and will trump your home facilities in many cases! Within the bath house, there are several private doors leading to your own 3 piece bath with shelving and granite counters with outlets, and a stunning double shower," notes one impressed camper.
Yurt camping: Glamping on the Clinch River LLC offers yurt accommodations for those seeking yurt camping near Rutledge, Tennessee. Yurt camping provides a comfortable middle ground between tent camping and cabin rentals, with electric hookups and access to shower facilities.
Seasonal activities: Big Ridge State Park hosts special seasonal events throughout the year. "The history of the area is interesting, and the lake is quite peaceful," remarks a visitor who enjoyed the natural surroundings and historical elements.
What you should know
Tent site conditions: Not all campgrounds offer ideal tent camping surfaces. "The sites are small and close together. Not all of them have a suitable tent spot, and there were a lot of RVs. I wish there was a separate area for tents," explains a camper at Big Ridge State Park.
Off-season operation: Cades Cove Campground operates from March through October. "November is when the leaves are changing. Temps cool at night, moderately nice during the day...got snow at Clingman's Dome however during the day!" notes a visitor who camped during shoulder season.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly throughout the area. "Cell service wasn't great for me here, but then again in all the Smoky Mountains I cruised around with pretty much 1 bar or less," reports a camper who found connectivity challenging.
Bear safety requirements: Food storage regulations exist at most campgrounds. "It's bear country, so your food and toiletries need to be locked in a vehicle or hard-side camping unit; there are some food storage lockers provided for the walk-in sites," advises a visitor regarding mandatory safety measures.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: River Plantation RV Resort provides numerous family amenities. "Had a blast here! They have so much for the kids to do, full court basketball, tennis courts, battle ball, arcade room, and pool. Also next door to a ropes corse and close to pigeon forge," shares a parent who found the facility ideal for children.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming locations. "Great place to swim for the summer with the kids," notes a visitor to Big Ridge State Park who enjoyed the swimming facilities.
Bike rentals: Some locations offer bicycle rental services on site. "We rented bikes on site, perfect day. We also did longer hikes in the area. Stayed here for 4 days as a basecamp, just a great wooded site," shares a camper who appreciated the convenient rental options.
Noise considerations: Choose sites away from high-traffic areas for quieter family camping. "Despite being a very busy campground it was also very well maintained. Everything was in great condition from my table to the site itself, no stray weeds or anything," reports a visitor who found even busy locations could provide a quality experience.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA offers various site sizes with different privacy levels. "Campground is full of RVs that you can hear humming constantly. Decent location next to a river that you can tube in. Not secluded at all, but clean," notes an RVer who stayed at this popular location.
Leveling requirements: Some sites require minimal adjustments for RVs. "Site 43. Big site, fairly flat. Just have levelers on one side. Close to the bathhouse and a quick walk to the entrance to get to the store, swim area, etc," shares a camper who found the site workable with minor adjustments.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in width and quality. "Roads are a little narrow in the campground, made it a little hard to back trailer in- the front of the truck was the issue hitting rocks on the side of the road," cautions an RV owner about navigation challenges.
Reservation timing: Book well ahead for yurt camping near Rutledge, Tennessee, especially during peak seasons. "Make your reservations far in advance this is a destination!" advises a visitor who planned ahead for their stay.
