Bristol, Virginia sits along the Tennessee-Virginia border in the Appalachian Mountains at approximately 1,680 feet elevation. Campgrounds near Bristol VA offer access to South Holston Lake, which covers 7,580 acres and provides shoreline camping with mountain backdrops. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F while fall brings cooler 60-70°F days with colorful foliage.
What to do
Water activities at the lake: At Little Oak Campground, campers can fish, boat, kayak and swim in South Holston Lake. "There are few places that I've been to that top this location. Super easy camp ground to get to with excellent paved roads in very close to each of the Tri-Cities. The camp ground is well organized with many amenities including super easy access to the water on all sides," notes Nathan F.
Mountain biking trails: Warriors' Path State Park houses acclaimed mountain bike trails suitable for various skill levels. "This is an enjoyable State Park with a lot to offer. They have a full docket of activities, ranger-led hikes, games, crafts and wildlife lectures offered throughout the day. In addition to camping they have a full marina with canoe, kayak and paddle board rentals," explains Sara M.
Disc golf course: Warriors' Path State Park offers a free disc golf course for campers. "My son and I enjoyed a round of disk golf while my wife and daughters made use of their awesome playground," reports Jedidiah J.
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Many Cardens Bluff Campground sites provide direct lake access. "Situated on a peninsula, Cardens Bluff has great views and access to the lake for the outer campsites. The interior campsites are nice as well, with vegetation giving enough privacy between campsites," writes Blake E.
Proximity to town amenities: Sugar Hollow Campground combines nature with convenience. "Not too much space for RV's. Ground not always levelled. But beautifully sited in the woods. Great for high temperatures. And realy inexpensive (we payed $20 per night)," mentions Catharina L. Another camper adds, "Anyone local knows about this park, however, few take advantage of the camping aspect. Few neighbors, excellent staff, and a nice area to hang out with friends, family, or even yourself! As well as trails and parks nearby, you're close enough to a Target and Walmart shopping center."
Spacious sites: Little Oak Campground provides room to spread out. "Very kid-friendly super spacious campsites every site is right on the lake with amazing sunsets every night," shares Tiffany G. Another camper notes, "The campground has plenty of room and space for your truck/boat/trailer."
What you should know
Primitive vs. full hookup options: Not all camping areas around Bristol offer the same amenities. At Observation Knob Park, "Large County campground with electric and water with two pump out stations. spacious, hilly sites with some tree coverage along lake with boat ramp and capacity to tie your boat up at your site. Recommend a surge protector on your camper as there are no breakers on the electric hook up at the site (clustered elsewhere)."
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven terrain. At Warriors' Path, "Our site(62) was narrow and a little short for our 23' trailer. We had to park the truck sideways at the entrance. Our stairs opened right on the concrete pad for the table and we had very little room for our chairs."
Seasonal considerations: Local campgrounds have varying operating seasons. Cardens Bluff operates from "April 13 to November 7" while Sugar Hollow remains open "All year." Several sites fill quickly during peak periods, especially holiday weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Interactive ranger programs: Warriors' Path State Park offers educational activities for children. "In the warm seasons they have a ranger that comes around and even little events for kids. I remember picking apart an owl pellet with the ranger. Very outdoor educational," recalls Travis R.
Kid-friendly playgrounds: Warriors' Path features specialized playground facilities. "This amazing campground has spots for tent and rv camping, hiking trails, a beautiful lake for kayaking and fishing, and a Marina where rentals are available! Park also has a Boundless Playground!" notes Natalie A.
Safe swimming areas: Riverside Campground provides gentle water access. "The river is perfect! It's not too deep so the kids can play in it. Fairly easily accessed from many areas at the campground," explains Heather K.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: At Sugar Hollow, "Im in a 25ft class c, always looking for a more nature forward spot, trees out my door. There's phone service and Wi-Fi in some spots. A few will fit a larger rig, many will fit my size. A few are flat already and some will need leveling."
Campsite size limitations: Warriors' Path requires careful attention to site dimensions. "The main camping section was laid out long ago, with older style short sites and water/electric only. Many of the sites are narrow and some have challenging access. Be sure to read site descriptions and check the suggested trailer size- they seriously mean the max size!!"
Leveling requirements: Most campgrounds near Bristol VA require additional equipment for RVs. At Warriors' Path, "There are a lot of uneven campsites, so bring your leveling blocks. That said, great campground. The facilities were clean, the park was well kept and the train whistles were far enough away that they didn't interrupt your sleep!"
