Natural Tunnel State Park camping cabins offer rustic to modern accommodations in Virginia's Ridge and Valley province at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,700 feet. The area features limestone geology with the namesake 850-foot natural tunnel carved by Stock Creek through Purchase Ridge. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while spring and fall can see 30-50 degree temperature swings between day and night.
What to do
Fishing at Little Oak Campground: Fish directly from shoreline camping spots on South Holston Lake. "Great place to camp and fish," notes Bill T., who frequently visits Little Oak Campground. The campground sits on peninsulas with water access from most sites.
Horseback riding: Explore nearby stables within a short drive of camping areas. "There are stables nearby where you can hire horses," mentions Lynn G. from Little Oak Campground, adding to the land-based recreation options beyond hiking.
Chairlift viewing: Take the scenic chairlift down to view the Natural Tunnel. "The chairlift is only open on weekends," notes Myron C. from Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping, so plan accordingly if this activity interests you.
Clinch River canoeing: Paddle the Clinch River for a day trip. "We drove 2 hours to canoe the Clinch River which was great fun and we got to see a lot of the area," shares Kim A., who stayed at Natural Tunnel State Park.
What campers like
Private primitive camping: Natural Tunnel Primitive area offers secluded spots with basic amenities. "Booked a 3 night stay over the weekend and had the primitive camping area to ourselves. 5 spots with tent pads, picnic tables, fire pit, hanging poles, and bear box," reports Sarah C. who appreciates the Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping area's setup.
Lakeside camping: Sites directly on South Holston Lake provide water access and scenic views. "Very kid-friendly super spacious campsites every site is right on the lake with amazing sunsets every night," explains Tiffany G. about Little Oak Campground's waterfront locations.
Pool and water activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming options beyond natural water bodies. "This campground is so well thought out, maintained, and clean. The staff members are kind," notes Casey G. about Crossville KOA, which includes pool facilities among its amenities.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain exceptional bathroom and shower facilities. "Each bathroom is a private toilet and shower, very clean, nicely tiled and plenty of hot water," shares Karen about Crossville KOA's facilities.
What you should know
Temperature considerations: Yurts can become extremely hot in summer months. "The temperatures were in the lower 90s outside, and once we walked inside the yurt, it was like walking into an oven. The temperature had to be somewhere around 110 degrees inside," warns Myron C. about his experience at Natural Tunnel State Park.
Elevation changes: Many campgrounds feature hilly terrain requiring some physical exertion. "Water spigot at top, a little walk, uphill, for water," notes Sarah C. about Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping, highlighting the need to plan for carrying supplies up and down hills.
Accessibility issues: Some sites have limited facilities for those with mobility concerns. "There were handrails along the three steps to the deck around the yurt, but there were no handrails beside the rougher steps leading to the yurt," Myron C. points out about Natural Tunnel State Park's accessibility limitations.
Seasonal activities: Many attractions operate on limited schedules. "Although there are playgrounds, a swimming complex, an amphitheater, and much more, some of these venues are closed for the season due to the pandemic," reports one camper, noting the importance of checking current operating status.
Tips for camping with families
Trail accessibility: Choose hiking trails appropriate for children's abilities. "Great park! It's got all you need from camping to trails to swimming to even learning history about the area and the park itself! Great for the family!" recommends Jaren E. from Natural Tunnel State Park.
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of ranger programs and historical sites. "There are many educational activities," notes Teresa K., highlighting the learning opportunities at Natural Tunnel State Park Campground.
Swimming options: Cool off in pools or lake swimming areas during hot months. "Swim at sunset when the boats go quiet," suggests Van M. from Little Oak Campground, identifying the best times for family swimming.
Weekend activities: Plan your stay around scheduled events for kids. "They have activities planned lots on the weekend," says D.S. about Baileyton KOA Holiday, noting the additional programming available for families.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Check ahead about site grading when making reservations. "We stayed in a pull through site and it was not very level (we had planned to not even unhook from the truck but had too bc of this)," advises Beth H. about her stay at Baileyton KOA Holiday.
Road conditions: Consider vehicle limitations for accessing remote campgrounds. "Long dirt road not necessarily accessible to all cars if it's been raining," warns Lynn G. about access to Little Oak Campground during wet conditions.
Campsite spacing: Research site dimensions and proximity to neighbors before booking. "The campground has plenty of room and space for your truck/boat/trailer," notes Kace L. about Little Oak Campground, highlighting the generous spacing that makes it suitable for larger setups.
