Located along the Ocoee River, RV camping near Mcdonald, Tennessee offers several options for outdoor enthusiasts. The area sits within the Cherokee National Forest at elevations ranging from 700-1,200 feet, creating varied camping experiences from riverside sites to mountain views. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with cooler nights in the mountains, while spring and fall bring more moderate conditions.
What to do
Whitewater adventures: Multiple campgrounds provide convenient access to the Ocoee River, known for its Olympic-caliber rapids. Parksville Lake RV Campground serves as a central hub for outdoor activities. As one camper notes, "Close by Occoee White Water center where the Atlanta olympics took place. Plan your visit around the water release. There schedule is online. Pretty cool to see the water trickle and then mass if water come at you."
Hiking trails: The Chilhowee Recreation Area offers extensive hiking options with 25 miles of trails. A visitor shared, "The trails are what really makes this an all around great campground. Several hikes for all levels. We did the Benton Falls hike and it was lovely! 3 miles RT."
Mountaintop excursions: Some campsites provide direct mountain access. A reviewer at Whitewater RV Park mentioned, "We spent the day hiking the mountain next to rv park. Then went kayaking down the river across the street. The sites are level and concrete with a nice fire pit."
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many visitors enjoy waterfront sites at Parksville Lake. One camper shared, "The small loop is perfect for a family get away. Close Creek and hiking provided plenty of activity for little ones and not overly crowded like bigger campgrounds."
Privacy between sites: River Life RV Resort earns praise for its scenic setting. A guest noted, "We absolutely loved our stay here! The most stunning views of the river gorge! The owners are amazing & so helpful!"
Clean facilities: Chilhowee Recreation Area maintains well-kept bathhouses. A visitor commented, "Bathhouse was clean and well lit. Roads around the loops were narrow but there were big 5th wheel rigs so its doable."
Waterfall access: Several campgrounds feature nearby waterfall hikes. According to one camper, "For a more secluded waterfall experience head to the Rainbow falls. We didn't go to the swimming beach, because dogs are not allowed."
What you should know
Mountain driving challenges: Some campgrounds require navigating steep roads. A Chilhowee visitor warned, "To get to this campground you have to go up a steep narrow windy mountain road. The camp sites are distanced well and the entire campground is in the shade."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically throughout the region. One camper at Chilhowee Recreation Area shared, "In the B loop there is NO AT&T in spite of what this site says. You may get a weak signal on the other side, but it's spotty at best. There appeared to be a Verizon tower on the mountain, so that will probably work."
Limited bathroom facilities: Some RV parks near Mcdonald lack full amenities. At Hawkins Pointe RV Park, a visitor noted, "No bathhouse, pool or other amenities. Does have very nice place to walk, dog park/wash, corn hole, fire pit with two chairs to use."
Reservation recommendations: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. A camper advised, "We were there in the middle of the week and it wasn't crowded at all. Plenty of FC FS sites even though the signage at the main turnoff to Oswald rd said no RV electric sites."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Deer Valley RV Park provides a peaceful setting for families. A recent visitor commented, "Stayed June 4th - 7th had a great stay and a great time great campground setup and convenient to town and stores."
Playground accessibility: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. A visitor to Battlefield Campground noted, "This campground does have some nice amenities like the pool, and playground, dog park, and the pavilion, which I'm not sure what this space is used for, but it was nicely furnished."
Kid-friendly hiking: Seek out waterfall trails with manageable distances. One visitor shared, "The campground is also in close proximity to a lot of outdoor activities. The bathroom and shower house is small and older, but very clean."
Lightning bug viewing: Summer visits may include spectacular natural light shows. A camper wrote, "The lightning bugs were breath taking! We stayed at site #39. Next to the trail that leads to the lake. Next to rest room, trash bin, and water spout."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Battlefield Campground & RV Park, a reviewer advised, "Most of the sites here are nicely wooded, and as the area is slightly hilly there are elevation changes between several rows of sites which allows for a little more privacy than many RV parks offer."
Dump station access: RVers should plan ahead for sanitation needs. A visitor noted, "There is only one dump station and it's on the other side of the campground. From the B loop, you have to traverse about a 120 degree switchback to get to it."
Big rig considerations: Some areas have challenging maneuverability. A camper warned, "Coming up the mountain has some steep grades and a few switch backs that you can't see around. There are often oncoming vehicles who are often driving too fast and not considering those of us in large vehicles."
Concrete pad availability: Hawkins Pointe RV Park offers well-maintained sites for larger RVs. A visitor mentioned, "Very nice camp ground right beside the interstate. On the TN/GA border. Easy to get to anything. Pull thru sites with picnic table."
