Kingston, Tennessee provides access to several mixed-use campgrounds along the Tennessee River and nearby lakes. Riley Creek Campground, located directly in Kingston, offers waterfront sites with full hookups for both tent and RV camping from April through October. Nearby Melton Hill Dam Campground, operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), provides year-round camping with electric hookups, water access, and boat-in sites. The region includes a mix of state-managed facilities, TVA recreation areas, and private campgrounds that accommodate various camping styles from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks with amenities.
Road conditions throughout the area generally allow for standard vehicle access, though some waterfront sites may require careful navigation on gravel roads. Most campgrounds in the Kingston area feature relatively level sites suitable for both tents and recreational vehicles. The Tennessee River and its reservoir system create numerous waterfront camping opportunities, though water levels can fluctuate seasonally. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions ideal for outdoor activities. Winter camping is available at select locations like Melton Hill Dam, though fewer amenities may be operational. As one camper noted, "The campsite sits right beside the Tennessee river. There are 9 full hookup sites and many of the rest have power and water. Large river swimming area. Most sites are level with concrete tables, fire pits and grills."
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the Kingston area, with several campgrounds offering direct lake or river frontage. The TVA-managed properties provide swimming areas, boat launches, and fishing opportunities alongside camping facilities. Campers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere of lakeside sites, particularly during weekdays when the campgrounds are less crowded. Melton Hill Dam receives positive reviews for its scenic water views and clean facilities, though some visitors note the limited number of shower facilities relative to the campground size. Several campgrounds in the area feature camp stores selling basic supplies, firewood, and ice. The proximity to Knoxville, approximately 40 miles east, makes these campground options convenient for weekend getaways while still providing a sense of retreat from urban environments.
$18 - $31 / night
"We really enjoyed Milton Hill dam, very friendly people , well stocked store, easy access to swimming and fishing and full hook up sites if you want them."
"We made a last minute trip to Melton Hill that was very conveniently located just outside of Knoxville. The campsite offers several options for camping along the water or in the woods."
"The campground is in close proximity to many of the trailheads. There is a nice bathhouse, but all the sites are rustic (non electric)."
"It may be the loveliest campground in Tennessee. There’s only 20 spots, and they all seem to be shady and have trees between neighbors."
"We were in a pop-up camper and had a lakefront site, which was awesome, except for the highway noise."
"The primitive tent sites are amazing, I didn’t give it 5 stars only because you can hear a little bit of road noise, as the campground is near the interstate."
"Yarberry Campground is a gated lakefront campground and day use area located on Tellico Lake, not far from the Fort Loudon Dam."
"We rented a pontoon boat for four hours and had a great time exploring the lake. Highly recommend this campground if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the larger campgrounds."
"It's a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, especially in beautiful locations like The Crosseyed Cricket Campground in Tennessee."
"For amenities there is a bouncy blob (dry), small pond with fountain and memorial bench, large playground for the kids, volleyball, basketball, I’m not sure what the game is next to the blob."
"Very nice area, close to a historic area and site seeing underground lake."
"They brought my firewood everyday and even took all the kids for rides on the golf cart around the campground. We had 8 kids with is so that took a few trips."
"Amenities are nice, there is a pool and pavilion, paved walking trails, shuffle board, basketball court, and boat docks and fishing pier. Our loop didn’t have cable but I believe the others do."
"Caney Creek is right off the highway and offers a lot to do. We only passed through the area but wished we were staying there for longer."
$15 / night
"Site 1 is open so a small pull behind can fit in parking area. Tents only on sites. Lots of shade. Toilet is vaulted, no water. Easy access to Obed River and trails."
"Bearproof trashcans are located throughout the campground. A section of the Cumberland Trail begins at the campground. The Emory River runs right alongside the campground with easy access."
$18 - $300 / night
"Off roading, shooting range, mountain bike trails, atv rentals. Very close to town if needed. The serenity and peace we feel staying there makes us never want to leave."
"Great sites, cute cabins great location."
ScoutVery nice, peaceful campground along Little River. Well maintained and great launch point for Smoky Mountain exploring and the whole area. Be warned about heavy stink bug season in September/October
GuideThe sites are not very level. This is an old Campground and it doesn't look like it's been upgraded for a very long time. The bathrooms were clean but old. The first sight they gave me was extremely unlevel, so they moved me to a different site that still wasn't level but better than the first.
ScoutReally enjoyed the site very quite and peaceful
GuideThis is absolutely the best campground near Pigeon Forge. Very quiet. You feel as though your out in the middle of nowhere, but you are only 5 minutes away from all the action. Very large sites that are very well manicured. The staff here take pride in their work and it shows.
GuideWe have camped 6-7 times in the past 10 years. Gets better every time we go. Not the cheapest, but amenities, service, and quality are over the top. Our favorite sites are the river side with a pavilion at each site. Biking trail less than 100 yds away. Borders the National Park, Townsend is a Great place to stay, close to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg and even closer to Cades Cove.
TravelerVery friendly staff and well maintained grounds, showers and bathrooms are clean and have hot water
TravelerGot there on December 4th and it was closed. I checked the website and I found nothing that showed it was closed this time of year.
TravelerWe enjoyed our stay at this beautiful campground! Pool was pretty but we didn’t get to hop in during the November cold snap. Hot tub looked good! Good scenery, and location! We would book here again!
GuideYoung Branch Campground is a bit off the grid, no services cellular or TV. We camped mid November and had the whole place to ourselves. There are 8 back in gravel sites with fire pits, a vault toilet (very clean) and a short stroll down to Cherokee Creek. The terrain is hilly but plenty of places to hike, we found a nice trail that we followed to the top of the mountain that was gradual and an easy relaxing walk. There are many marked campsites along the creek for OTG camping. We spent 3 days here and I could count on one hand the amount of vehicles that passed on the road. It was a great escape to a peaceful wooded forest with the sound of the creek just yards away.
ADDITION: There is a paddock and horse stalls so I'm assuming that horses are welcomed at this location.
Kingston's camping spots offer a mixture of Tennessee Valley Authority managed areas and state parks set in the foothills of the Appalachians, with elevations ranging from 700-1,200 feet. Most campgrounds in the area sit on or near reservoirs created by the TVA dam system, which fluctuate seasonally based on power generation needs and rainfall patterns. Winter camping options remain limited with fewer than 30% of campgrounds operating year-round.
Hiking trails: Frozen Head State Park Campground features extensive trail options with varied difficulty levels. "Beautiful grounds and wonderful waterfalls!! A truly beautiful well kept secret of TN," notes one camper. The park's trails connect to waterfalls and scenic overlooks.
Off-road adventures: Windrock Campground provides direct access to extensive trail systems for ATVs and off-road vehicles. "Miles and miles of trails. General store, beautiful overlooks," reports a visitor. The park includes a shooting range and mountain bike trails for additional activities.
Fishing access: Multiple access points along the Tennessee River system provide fishing opportunities. "Most sites are nice. Close to the water and quiet," mentions one camper at Melton Hill Dam Campground. Bass and catfish remain common catches throughout the reservoir system.
Proximity to Knoxville: Several campgrounds serve as convenient bases for city excursions while maintaining a natural setting. "Easy access to my family in Knoxville Tennessee," comments one visitor to Melton Hill Dam. Most campgrounds sit within a 45-minute drive of urban amenities.
Quiet atmosphere: Rock Creek Campground offers a secluded experience despite its accessibility. "Comfy evening. Quiet even though it was full. Connected to good trails," notes a camper. Many sites feature sound buffers from surrounding forests.
Swimming areas: Yarberry Campground provides dedicated swimming facilities. "The swimming area is in a great spot with a sandy beach. There are also other areas around the campground where you could enter the water with floats, kayaks, paddle boards, etc," explains a regular visitor. Most swimming areas remain open from May through September.
Seasonal variations: Water levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year at reservoir campgrounds. "This trip was in January, and it was chilly, especially on the lake front site I stayed on," reports a Yarberry Campground visitor. Winter campers should check ahead for facility closures.
Access limitations: Some campgrounds restrict entry after hours. "The gates get locked so make sure you arrive early. We got locked out and couldn't contact anyone," warns a visitor to Frozen Head State Park. Many areas require gate codes or have unmanned entrances after dark.
Reservation systems: Campgrounds operate with varied booking procedures. "This campground is a first come first serve basis," explains a Riley Creek visitor. "The hosts are amazing!!! They brought my firewood everyday and even took all the kids for rides on the golf cart around the campground."
Plan for humidity: Summer camping requires additional preparation for the region's high humidity. "This management works hard to keep bathrooms clean and park clean," notes a Melton Hill Dam visitor. Consider camping spring or fall for more moderate conditions.
Kid-friendly facilities: Sweetwater KOA offers dedicated amenities for children. "Lots for kids to do, swimming pool, fishing pond, playground, jump pad," describes a visitor. The campground also features weekend activities programmed specifically for families.
Wildlife awareness: Snake sightings occur in warmer months. "Be advised, the last two years there's been baby copperhead snakes that hang around outside the bath house at night," warns a Frozen Head State Park camper. Proper footwear and flashlights after dark remain essential.
Site selection considerations: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. "The parking area is an asphalt slab and many have a slant to them and will require leveling," advises a Melton Hill Dam visitor about the terraced layout. Extra leveling blocks often prove useful.
Utility access: Water availability varies seasonally at some locations. "Taller rigs may see some low branches on the road in. Most sites 30 amp," notes a Riley Creek visitor, adding that "water gets turned off for the winter in November or whenever freezing begins." Most RV sites provide partial hookups with limited full-hookup options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Kingston, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Kingston, TN offers a wide range of camping options, with 295 campgrounds and RV parks near Kingston, TN and 12 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Kingston, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Kingston, TN is Melton Hill Dam Campground — Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) with a 4.2-star rating from 29 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Kingston, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 free dispersed camping spots near Kingston, TN.
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