RV camping near Turtletown, Tennessee offers access to the Cherokee National Forest region with elevations ranging from 1,400-2,800 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer highs averaging 80-85°F while winter temperatures can drop below freezing. Many campgrounds in the Turtletown area sit along mountain streams or provide access to nearby lakes for fishing and recreation.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Chilhowee Recreation Area provides access to 25 miles of hiking and biking trails right from your campsite. "We did the Benton Falls hike and it was lovely! 3 miles RT. Fall color was just peaking," reports a visitor to Chilhowee Recreation Area.
Water activities: The Ocoee River offers whitewater rafting opportunities just minutes from several campgrounds. "We stayed here for the weekend when we were rafting the Ocoee. Small Campground but perfect if rafting," notes a camper at Parksville Lake RV Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Foxfire of Murphy RV Park provides walking paths through rolling pastures. "Campground is located at the base of beautiful rolling pastures with mowed paths to walk your dog. Also has fenced dog area," mentions one visitor.
What campers like
Creek-side campsites: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites available at several area campgrounds. "We had a great experience at this little campground. There are several sites along a beautiful little creek. It was peaceful, only the occasional car on the nearby road," shares a Parksville Lake camper.
Mountain views: Top of the World RV delivers on its name with panoramic vistas. "This place is exactly what we've been looking for. HUGE spots, and that's even the 'small' ones. Great views," writes one reviewer.
Site spacing: Peachtree Cove RV Park offers well-designed camping areas. "This is a beautiful, well maintained park with a very friendly and helpful staff. The sights are level and well spaced, and the creek is charming," notes a visitor to Peachtree Cove RV Park.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Internet connectivity varies significantly by carrier and location. At Top of the World RV, one camper noted: "Cell service with T-Mobile not existent. They have WiFi but not very fast."
Bathroom facilities: Campground shower and bathroom quality differs across the region. At Parksville Lake, a camper mentioned: "The bathroom and shower house is small and older, but very clean. The camp host was very helpful and friendly."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires navigating mountain roads. "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," warns a visitor to Chilhowee Campground.
Weather preparedness: The mountain climate can change quickly, especially in spring and fall. Bring layers and rain gear regardless of forecast.
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration: Streams provide natural play areas for children. "Very clean, decent sized lots. Clean bathroom and shower. Nice little creek flows nearby, had a great experience!" shares a Parksville Lake visitor.
Swimming options: Whispering Pines Campground offers recreational facilities for families. "This is a lovely little campground with lots of shade and a gurgling creek. They have nice tent sites and all the way up to fitting our 43' fifth wheel," mentions a camper.
Hiking difficulty: Assess trail difficulty before heading out with children. "Benton falls was great, but crowded. For a more secluded waterfall experience head to the Rainbow falls," advises a Chilhowee camper.
Campground selection: For families seeking activities, Parksville Lake offers convenience to recreation. "The campground is also in close proximity to a lot of outdoor activities," notes one reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Campground navigation: Many RV parks in the Turtletown region have space constraints. "Only issue with Parksville lake is that it is a tight drive into the sites. Otherwise nice and quiet campground," cautions a visitor.
Hookup variations: Valley River RV Resort offers full hookup sites. "Concrete RV pads with asphalt driveways. Private fishing pond with tranquil waterfall," describes one RVer.
Leveling challenges: Top of the World RV requires proper equipment for stabilization. "Because sites are loose gravel, leveling can be a challenge is your rig does not auto level."
Large rig considerations: For those with bigger RVs, advance research is essential. One Peachtree Cove visitor with a 43' fifth wheel reported: "Length wise I fit with room to spare. However I am 13'6" in hight and there is a cable/power line over this site and site 16 that hangs a bit too low and my AC unit got acquainted with it."
