The Turtletown area sits at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains in eastern Tennessee, with elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 feet creating varied terrain for camping experiences. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s during day with nighttime lows in the 60s, making it ideal for extended outdoor activities. Local campgrounds often feature creekside settings with water access that's particularly valuable during hot summer months.
What to Do
Whitewater recreation: The Hiwassee River area offers excellent paddling opportunities just a short drive from Turtletown. "We did the Hiwassee Outfitter camping area in Reliance, Tennessee. Most campsites have river view or stream view... We went fly fishing right from the campsite. The water gets released at 11am, so the current picks up and water levels will rise quickly," notes a camper at Hiwassee River Area.
Waterfall hiking: Multiple hiking trails with waterfall views are available within 30 minutes. "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," shares a visitor to Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Lake activities: Several area campgrounds feature swimming lakes. "The lake offers many recreation opportunities including swimming, boating, picnicking, fishing, camping, and hiking. Rentals are available from the store front in Morganton or the beachside location," reports a camper at Morganton Point Campground.
What Campers Like
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution makes for excellent night sky viewing in the area. "Camped on lot 14 which was quite spacious with easy access to the water. Tent was located away from the fire pit and picnic table... Campground is small and quiet; hardly any light pollution at my nonelectric site," notes a Morganton Point Campground visitor.
Mountain views: The higher elevation campsites provide scenic vistas. "Scenic views the whole drive up, followed by a safe, cozy campground with clean facilities and a great grouping of trails. Bonus: a lake on top of the mountain, where you can float surrounded by sky," explains a camper at Chilhowee.
Creekside camping: Many sites feature access to natural water features. "We camped at the pioneer camp site by the creek. It has a pavilion and a creek very close by. It was a hike in but it was simply amazing!" shares a visitor at Vogel State Park Campground.
What You Should Know
Road access considerations: Some glamping options near Turtletown require driving mountain roads. "There is definitely a long drive (7 Mile) uphill to the campground, but it is definitely worth the drive. The camp hosts (which have been there for 16+ years) were awesome and very friendly," notes a visitor to Chilhowee.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely across the region. "We had inconsistent cell coverage even with a Winegard booster with AT&T and Verizon. Mornings were best reception and evening were not so good," shares a camper at Fort Mountain State Park Campground.
Water level changes: Rivers in the area may change flow rates based on scheduled releases. "The river is smooth until 11am... The water gets released at 11am, so the current picks up and water levels will rise quickly. A nice place to camp if you come for water fun," explains a Hiwassee River Area camper.
Tips for Camping with Families
Wildlife education opportunities: The area offers chances to observe wildlife safely. "We had bear visitors, something they'll warn you about upon arrival. The bears just added to the appeal of this place though. The views here? Amazing," shares a visitor to Fort Mountain State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly water features: Several campgrounds include swimming areas designed for children. "Indian Boundary has a nice beach area and a beautiful mountain range to enjoy. It's my favorite camping spot!" notes a camper at Indian Boundary.
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "Two separate children's playgrounds exist, not too far from one another. One near a small kids ball field...the other near a very nice volleyball court, permanent corn hole pit and state of the art outdoor exercise machine area," explains a Vogel State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Be aware of size restrictions when planning a glamping experience near Turtletown with larger vehicles. "The roads in the campground are narrow and again, some of the turns are sharp when pulling a trailer. There is only one dump station and it's on the other side of the campground," notes a Chilhowee camper.
Weather preparation: The mountain elevation means temperatures can vary significantly. "My husband and I visited the first week in July. There was rain in the forecast everyday, but it only really rained one day. It was fairly humid the rest of the time, with a random sprinkle here and there," shares another Chilhowee Recreation Area visitor.
Hookup considerations: Water access varies by campground. "As I eluded to before, there are no water hookups at the sites, only power (30A). You'll need to fill your fresh water tanks before you set up," advises a Chilhowee camper.