326 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The Clinton, Tennessee area contains multiple campground options within a 30-mile radius, ranging from state parks to privately-owned RV resorts. Campers can find established sites at West Campground in Norris Dam State Park, Loyston Point Campground, and Clinton-Knoxville North KOA. Most camping areas offer a mix of tent and RV accommodations, with some locations like Big Ridge State Park providing cabin options as well. The surrounding landscape features lakes, rivers, and forested terrain that creates diverse camping environments. Several campgrounds feature waterfront sites along area lakes and reservoirs, including Melton Hill Dam, operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority.
Seasonal considerations impact campground accessibility, with many sites operating from March through October. Frozen Head State Park Campground, located about 40 miles west of Clinton, maintains a shorter season from March 15 to November 1. Full hookup sites for RVs are available at multiple locations, while tent-only areas typically provide more primitive amenities. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holiday periods. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with several campgrounds having limited or no coverage. One camper noted, "The only issue that we had with this site was the fact that there was no cell service at all. You have to drive outside of the park into Gatlinburg to find service."
Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews from visitors to the Clinton area. Melton Hill Dam Campground offers swimming access that appeals to families, while Loyston Point Campground provides boat-in sites for those arriving by water. Several campers mention the convenience of Clinton's camping options for exploring nearby attractions. According to one visitor, "When passing through this area going to the Smoky Mountains I made a pit stop in Clinton, TN, just a few short miles away from one of the entrances to Smoky Mountain National Park." The region's mixed-use campgrounds accommodate various camping styles, with some locations like TVA Public Land-Fork Bend offering free primitive camping. Visitors particularly appreciate campgrounds that provide a combination of natural settings with reasonable proximity to area attractions.
"We stayed at the main area but not much space or privacy so we put up a tent out side our door, but then moved to the tent camping site area the second night which was more secluded and private, but still"
"There is a lake, so naturally that means there is boating, jet skiing, canoeing and of course fishing."
"Great location just off I75, close to easy shopping (Walmart), Urgent Care facility just minutes away, nice BBQ place right in the park, local eatery’s just up the way (less than 2 miles)."
"Our site is nice and right on the lake but it’s a little odd the way the sites are. Our neighbors site is next to us but there table and fire pit are behind our rig."
"I’ve stayed at this site a couple times now and I love the location. The site is a short and easy hike (under 2 miles) from the parking lot via the Lake Trail to the Dark Hollow Trail."
"Close to the bathhouse and a quick walk to the entrance to get to the store, swim area, etc."
"Bathrooms and Showers with hot water. 20 minutes outside Knoxville and extremely quiet."
"The campsite is nestled in trees and conveniently located to the Knoxville area. They have a small store for small forgotten items as well as a place to fill propane."
from $30 - $65 / night
Check Availability"The staff is warm and helpful, it’s incredibly clean, and the surroundings really allow you to feel the love of East Tennessee’s beauty."
"Stayed at a premium lakeshore site on Norris Lake. Advertised as a pull through, but that must be for travel trailers, as I have an RV."
"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."
from $18 - $31 / night
Check Availability"When passing through this area going to the Smoky Mountains I made a pit stop in Clinton, TN, just a few short miles away from one of the entrances to Smoky Mountain National Park."
"A great stop right off the highway. Super nice staff, easy in and out (make sure you pay attention to the left turn in past the gas station). Not the roomiest of sites, but fine for what we needed."
"Easy access to the highway."
from $23 - $30 / night
Check Availability"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."
"I recently learned that TVA land is free to camp on, so I sought out some close to me and found Fork Bend. If you want to get away from people, this place is for you."
"Reminder the lake is really low all fall/winter before Memorial Day. It was quiet and serene and you could hear the fish jumping all evening."
ScoutIf you’re looking for chill sights with minimal needs and no electric this place has been lovely. Creek access with some sites. Not all for direct creek. Lake access to entire campground tho! Will be back for us !!!
GuideThe Smoker Holler campground has convenient access off of hwy 321 in Wears Valley. Close to the Smoky Mountain national park. It's a decent place for an overnight stop but not a destination campground. The good points: The sites are level and we'll graveled. There are full hookups. The restroom/shower facilities are well kept. The not so good: not a lot of shaded sites so summer is hot. Sites are very close together and the campground is small o there is not a lot of area to walk dogs. (The qualifier is that I walk my dogs 4-6 miles most days) There is a field adjacent to the campground that is fine for potty walks but not big enough for exercise. We were just passing through on a covered bridge tour so we only stayed one night and it was ok.
ScoutLovely camping site employees are courteous and helpful the area is super neat and clean. Very pretty and borders a lake
GuideNicely laid out but little shade. Nice bathhouse.
TravelerCrowded with small sites. Saturated grassy and muddy area all around our site. Way over priced! Staff was polite and helpful with replacing 50amp breaker at the shore connection.
TravelerThis top of the mountain campground is amazing. There was barely anyone here and just a short/walk drive down the road are tons of overlooks and a short hike to a watch tower. I definitely recommend this place.
ScoutThey have a pool, a lake with boat ramp and dock, and picnic tables at all spots. There are a few rows of permanent spots but didn't seem ran down. The office workers were nice and easy to communicate with.
ScoutCabins and Campgrounds are very clean
GuideEverything is new after Helene came through. I liked the park, and the staff was very helpful. Sometimes vehicles on the bridge near the dam could be noisy. After exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park each day, I was too tired to care. It's conveniently located and I'd stay here again when I'm in the area. There were Canadian geese, otters, and nesting bald eagles in the area.
Camping options near Clinton, Tennessee span several state parks and privately-owned facilities within a 30-minute drive radius. The region sits at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet. Most campgrounds in this area are open year-round, though winter camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop below freezing from December through February.
Hiking trails and mountain biking: Frozen Head State Park offers challenging hiking with multiple trail options. "There is excellent and serious hiking and backpacking here. The campground is rustic but taken care of and I'm told it was renovated recently. Like most of this area it's very wooded, green, and lovely with streams, waterfalls, etc. Park rangers were particularly helpful choosing hikes," notes Dan N. from Frozen Head State Park Campground.
Water activities on Norris Lake: Fork Bend provides direct water access for swimming and paddling. "Norris lake is so beautiful. We drove a car and took our time going down the dirt road. There were no problems going in or out. There were some deep ruts but it was easy to avoid them. We're going back out again next weekend and this time we're bringing the fishing rods," reports Pinky S. from TVA Public Land- Fork Bend.
Historical sites and museums: Big Ridge State Park offers cultural sites beyond camping. "The park is beautiful! Views of the lake and dam are breathtaking! Just don't plan to swim, as there is no lake access point for swimming. You can rent kayaks, boats, paddleboards, etc at the marina, but if you were planning to bring a float and get in the lake, you'll be disappointed. There's lots of hiking trails," writes Lori H.
Lakefront camping experiences: Loyston Point provides direct water access. "Loyston Point is remarkable in its beauty and simplicity. The staff is warm and helpful, it's incredibly clean, and the surroundings really allow you to feel the love of East Tennessee's beauty. It is a bit sandy on some water front sites, so be mindful of that for your gear," explains Michael M. from Loyston Point Campground.
Clean facilities and amenities: Cove Lake State Park maintains well-kept restrooms and camping areas. "Nice State Park Campground. Easy access, one mile off I-75. Sites were fairly close but still a nice experience. Along the lake. Clean bathrooms, showers, elec hook ups, water hook ups and dump station available and all working well. We enjoyed it as a quick stop," shares Michael S. from Cove Lake State Park Campground.
Free camping options: Some TVA lands offer no-cost camping. "Completely free primitive camping. Me and my boyfriend had a difficult time finding the place at first. The coordinates took us to a Bible school. To get to the right place, start on Demory Road take a right onto Jim Lee Road then take the second left to get back into the public land area, follow the dirt road all the way down to the water front where you'll find numerous campsites all spread out perfectly," advises Tamara.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Clinton, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Clinton, TN offers a wide range of camping options, with 326 campgrounds and RV parks near Clinton, TN and 10 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Clinton, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Clinton, TN is West Campground — Norris Dam State Park with a 4.2-star rating from 29 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Clinton, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near Clinton, TN.
What parks are near Clinton, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 32 parks near Clinton, TN that allow camping, notably Cumberland Gap National Historic Park and Croatan National Forest.
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