Townsend, Tennessee sits at 1,070 feet elevation in a valley between the Great Smoky Mountains and Chilhowee Mountain. Often called the "quiet side of the Smokies," this area experiences moderate temperatures with summer highs around 85°F and winter lows typically staying above 20°F. RV camping near Townsend offers proximity to the less-crowded western entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park where black bears are commonly sighted.
What to do
Waterfront recreation: Little River Campground & RV Resort offers direct river access for fishing, swimming and tubing. "We stayed in the tent camping area. Absolutely beautiful site with a wonderful river view," notes one visitor at Little River Campground & RV Resort.
Hiking trail access: Campsites provide convenient access to multiple trail systems. "Close to Great Smoky Mountains. Very friendly hosts that keep the park in excellent condition," reports one camper at Up the Creek RV Camp.
Cycling opportunities: The 11-mile Townsend bike path passes near several campgrounds, allowing car-free exploration. "We rode bikes out to explore and get food in the evening," mentions one reviewer about Little River Campground.
Baseball tournaments: Kings Holly Haven RV Park sits adjacent to Wear Farm Park sports complex. "The park is next to Wear Farm Park, so if baseball/softball tournaments are going on the campground will be full of ball players."
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Many campgrounds balance natural settings with access to regional activities. "Easy access from the main town of pigeon forge. Sites on the back section near creek bed are beautiful," notes one visitor of Creekside RV Park.
Public transportation: Several RV parks offer trolley service to attractions. "Trolley stop directly by office so no need to drive down into Pigeon Forge," reports a camper at Riveredge RV Park.
Peaceful settings: Up the Creek RV Camp provides quieter alternatives to busier parks. "This is seriously the quietest campground I've ever been to... a very relaxing 'adult' campground."
Clean facilities: Cleanliness ranks high among camper priorities. "Bathhouse and laundromat were very clean," mentions a Kings Holly Haven visitor, while another camper noted Riveredge RV Park has "phenomenal restrooms."
What you should know
Site placement considerations: Request specific locations based on priorities. "Sites 14-18 seem to be a little more spaced out, with much better views of the creeks," advises a visitor at Up the Creek RV Camp.
Road noise variations: Some waterfront sites trade views for highway noise. "The tent spots towards the point are apparently very close to the hwy and morning commute traffic was pretty loud," warns a camper at Southlake RV Park.
Wi-Fi limitations: Internet connectivity varies dramatically between parks. "I only give it 3 stars because of their no streaming Wi-Fi policy. I'm fine with giving up technology for a week but camping with a 5 and 6yo is challenging without streaming capabilities," notes one Up the Creek visitor.
Seasonal timing: Campgrounds adjust operations seasonally. Anchor Down RV Resort operates March 1 to December 1, while Up the Creek RV Camp runs March 13 to December 2.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Several campgrounds feature pools with additional water features. "Great pool, hot tub and splash pad. Great location," mentions a visitor at Riveredge RV Park.
Indoor recreation options: Rainy day alternatives keep children entertained. "We went to the arcade and played... Our son had a ball playing in the pool and splash pad," reports a Riveredge RV Park camper.
Adventure activities: On-site and nearby activities provide entertainment. "This was our first time camping with our new travel trailer and we wanted to make sure we had an accommodating area. This ground was perfect! With a bath house, pool, laundry and PERFECT location near downtown," writes a Pigeon Forge RV Resort visitor.
Campground-hosted events: Special activities enhance seasonal stays. "Every Saturday in October, campers decorate their site and hand out candy to the costumed campers! My kids LOVED that," shares an Anchor Down RV Resort visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Site preparation varies between campgrounds. "Gravel spot needed 2 blocks to level. Nice view out our back window," notes a Kings Holly Haven camper.
Tight maneuvering areas: Some parks present navigation challenges. "The sites are very close together, so I would recommend arriving early before it gets crowded so you can have more room to back in," advises a Kings Holly Haven visitor.
Reservation strategies: High-demand parks require advance planning. "It is so hard to get a reservation here, so we decided to take what we could get so we could try it out! A tip to get reservations! Call and put your name on a waiting list for the dates you need. If they have cancellations, they call the people on the list instead of releasing the dates on the website!"
Pet accommodation: Policies vary regarding pet areas and restrictions. "The grounds are meticulous... Pet friendly - pick up stations and off leash area with activities for active breeds," describes one Anchor Down camper.
