The eastern edge of Cleveland, Virginia sits where the Clinch River runs through Jefferson National Forest, with camping options ranging from primitive sites at 1,200 feet to lakeside spots along South Holston Lake at 1,700 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s, while spring and fall camping offers milder conditions with daytime temps in the 60s-70s.
What to do
Trout fishing at Rainbow Campground: Located on Big Tumbling Creek, a stocked trout stream, this pet-friendly location offers year-round fishing opportunities. "An amazing Campground, and area! This is early March with decent water levels, The Roar of the creek at the base of the campground is very therapeutic. They stock the creek twice a month with trout, it was stocked 80 ft from my tent 2 days ago," noted camper Zach P.
Lake activities at Little Oak Campground: This pet-friendly campground on South Holston Lake provides water recreation for dogs and owners. "Little oak offered a great place to stay for a week. With south Holston lake at your finger tips it offers a great area to fish, boat, kayak, paddle board and swim," writes Jayme G. The campground offers easy water access and clean facilities.
Mountain biking at Warriors' Path State Park: The park's acclaimed trail system welcomes pets and their owners. "This is an enjoyable State Park with a lot to offer. The rangers and staff may be the nicest we've encountered. It houses an acclaimed mountain bike trail area. Nearby you can golf and ride horses," reported Sara M. The park hosts regular ranger-led activities throughout the day.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing at Breaks Interstate Park Campground: Campers appreciate the abundant wildlife at this pet-friendly destination. "Very scenic place!! We spent 6 nights here, hiked & biked a lot. Off season, so some of the amenities were closed (pool looks awesome). We lucked out in the B loop, as a small trail (Grassy Overlook trail) took us to see the northern lights one evening," shared Bob M.
Clean facilities at Hungry Mother State Park: Many reviewers highlight the well-maintained campground areas. "We camped here over the weekend with our dogs. The campground was fantastic. All campsites are on platforms, which makes it very nice to set up your stuff. The bathhouse was very clean and taken care of. There are several spigots with drinking water through the campground. The bathhouse also has a dishwasher station," explained Katrin M.
Value for money at Sugar Hollow Campground: Campers appreciate the affordable pricing at this pet-friendly park. "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)," noted Catharina L. The location offers shaded spots, making hot summer days more comfortable for pets.
What you should know
Pet restrictions at specific locations: While most campgrounds allow pets, rules vary by site. Always check leash requirements and off-limits areas when planning your trip. Hungry Mother State Park requires pets to be leashed at all times on trails and in camping areas.
Seasonal changes affect experiences: Winter and early spring camping requires preparation. "This is early March with decent water levels," reports a Rainbow Campground visitor. During summer months, Sugar Hollow offers "all day shade" that's "great for high temperatures."
Campsite selection matters: At Observation Knob Park, "spacious, hilly sites with some tree coverage along lake with boat ramp and capacity to tie your boat up at your site." However, review notes "recommend a surge protector on your camper as there are no breakers on the electric hook up at the site (clustered elsewhere)."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Warriors' Path State Park, one visitor mentioned "my son and I enjoyed a round of disk golf while my wife and daughters made use of their awesome playground. We only did one hike, however, there are multiple trails to make use of in the park."
Educational opportunities: Look for ranger-led programs at state parks. Warriors' Path offers "a full docket of activities, ranger-led hikes, games, crafts and wildlife lectures offered throughout the day." One camper recalled, "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."
Swimming options: During warmer months, several locations offer swimming. At Riverside Campground, "There is a small pool, but very clean and nice. 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. Tent sites behind the pool have water and electric."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. At Warriors' Path, "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!!"
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups vary by location. At Observation Knob Park, there's "Large County campground with electric and water with two pump out stations." However, "there is no septic at each site" but "there is a honey wagon service that quite close and very reasonably priced."
Campground layout considerations: Pay attention to terrain when booking. "There are 3 campgrounds in Hungry Mother SP. Camp Burson is the easiest to get to and the one we stayed at. Creekside and Royal Oak campgrounds are further into the park up a windy narrow road. Camp Burson is flat and very well maintained gravel pads. Creekside is a little hilly with blacktop pads and Royal Oak is very steep with deck like structures at each site to set up on."
