Tent camping opportunities near Ewing, Virginia extend beyond established campgrounds into Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia's public lands. The region sits at the confluence of the Cumberland Mountains and Powell River Valley, with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,200 feet creating diverse microclimates for campers. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F during the day, dropping to 60-65°F at night, while spring and fall offer cooler temperatures with occasional fog in low-lying areas.
What to do
Fishing at stocked lakes: Kingdom Come State Park Campground features a small lake regularly stocked with trout, bass, bluegill, and sunfish within walking distance of the campsites. A camper noted, "If you like fishing there is a small lake which is regularly stocked with Trout, Bass, Blue Gill, Sunfish, and a few others. It's just a short walk from the campsites."
Explore local caves and historic sites: Chuck Swan State Forest offers unique exploration opportunities beyond typical hiking. "Lots to explore here, beaches, hi clearance roads(Jeep roads), caves, old cemeteries, rocks to jump off into the lake, and an old fire tower you can climb for what I would expect is a great view," explains one visitor who recommends allowing more than a day to explore properly.
Paddling on Norris Lake: TVA Public Land- Fork Bend provides direct waterfront access for kayaking and canoeing on Norris Lake. "My daughter and I went out for an overnight camping trip. We took our dogs with us. It was beautiful and rustic! We brought everything we needed with us. Norris lake is so beautiful," reports one camper who planned to return with fishing gear.
Rock climbing: The Raven Rock trail at Kingdom Come State Park leads to a challenging 450-foot granite rock face at a 40-degree angle that visitors can climb for mountain views. "Our favorite is the Raven Rock trail which leads to a 450 foot 40 degree angle granite rock facing that you can climb to get an amazing view of the surrounding mountains," shares a repeat visitor.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet camping: The best tent camping near Ewing, Virginia consistently offers privacy away from crowds. One camper at Kingdom Come State Park Campground reported, "I've been camping at this state park since the early 2000's and am pleased to say not much has changed... It is very quiet and remote."
Lakefront sites with views: Many primitive sites offer direct water access. "We found a great spot right on the lake," shares one TVA Public Land camper, while another describes their experience: "There was a tiny beach about 100 yards east of my site for wading — manageable rock ledges and muddy banks everywhere else."
Free camping options: TVA Public Land offers no-cost camping with waterfront access. A camper explains, "Completely free primitive camping... The sites are all close to the water with beautiful sunsets on the west side and gorgeous sunrises on the east sites."
Limited light pollution for stargazing: Chuck Swan State Forest's remote location creates excellent night sky viewing. "If you like the night sky and quiet, alone time, this place is perfect," reports one visitor who appreciated the lack of development in this forestry-managed area.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles, especially in wet conditions. At Chuck Swan State Forest, "The main forest road is a gravel road that anything minus a sports car can handle. All other roads are not as well managed, and some are just double track dirt roads that you'll need 4WD and possibly a winch if it's muddy or rainy."
Bear safety precautions required: Misfit Farmz Campground and Kingdom Come State Park both have active bear populations. Kingdom Come provides food-hanging poles at each site, and campers should secure all food. "The area is known for bear activity... We saw a bear across the valley, so take the warnings seriously and follow the instructions," advises one visitor.
Primitive facilities demand preparation: Most tent sites require bringing your own water and supplies. "Bring your bug spray, flashlight and TP," recommends a Chuck Swan visitor, while another adds, "Don't follow the directions from the link on the site. It will take you to a bible camp. From Demory Rd., take a right on Jim Lee rd, then take the second road on the left to head back to the public land area."
Variable cell service: Coverage can be unreliable, particularly in valleys. A TVA Public Land camper reports, "There were generally 2 bars of Verizon 4G, which sometimes increased to 3 bars or dropped down to 1X. I was able to text fine but sending/receiving pictures was hit or miss."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites for amenities: Cedar Grove Marina & Campground provides more facilities than primitive sites, including showers and electric hookups. "This is a very nice place to stay in. It has everything you need to enjoy your stay," notes one visitor.
Look for shallow swimming areas: Several TVA Public Land sites feature kid-friendly water access. "There is a nice rocky/sandy beach to play in and it stays shallow for a ways out so it would probably be nice for the kids," suggests one camper who was impressed by the cleanliness of the picnic area.
Reserve sites early at peak times: Popular locations like Kingdom Come fill quickly in summer months. A camper describes the layout: "There are 6 tent sites (7 if they allow you to reserve the one next to the duck pond), each with a gravel drive, mulch tent pad big enough for two smallish tents, fire ring, and picnic table."
Pack for wildlife encounters: Children should be prepared for and educated about bears and snakes. "Lots of snakes hiding under rocks on the beach," reports a TVA Public Land camper who spent a week at the site.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options near Ewing: Most sites are tent-focused with few accommodations for larger vehicles. A Kingdom Come State Park camper notes, "6 sites that are tent-centric but doable with a small trailer, there are two additional sites that can be accessed if you ask the ranger to open the gate."
Check road gradients before arrival: Lakeside Getaway on Douglas provides better RV access than mountain locations. "This is brand new lakefront campground with tent and RV sites. Currently there are no hookups, conveniently located off I40 and a perfect place to overnight for us," explains a visitor to this developing campground.
Prepare for tight access roads: Kingdom Come has particularly challenging approaches. "No dump station, and the road in from Cumberland is STEEP! We made it in a mini van pulling a scamp, so you'll probably be fine," shares an RVer who successfully navigated the terrain with a small trailer.
Consider seasonal closures: Many forest service and TVA roads close during winter or after heavy rains. RVers should call ahead to verify access, as one camper observed at Cedar Grove: "This spot is Awesome. Stayed a week, enjoyed the falling leaves, the sunny sky, the beach and many fire rings."
