Best Tent Camping near Pennington Gap, VA

Looking for an adventure where you can explore Pennington Gap and then fall asleep in your tent? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Pennington Gap. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Pennington Gap campsites are perfect for tent campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Pennington Gap, VA (17)

    Camper-submitted photo from Kingdom Come State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kingdom Come State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kingdom Come State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kingdom Come State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kingdom Come State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Kingdom Come State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping — Natural Tunnel State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping — Natural Tunnel State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping — Natural Tunnel State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping — Natural Tunnel State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping — Natural Tunnel State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping — Natural Tunnel State Park

    2. Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping — Natural Tunnel State Park

    3 Reviews
    39 Photos
    2 Saves
    Duffield, Virginia

    Primitive Camping

    Natural Tunnel's primitive camping site is in a partially wooded area about half a mile from the main campgrounds and bathhouses. Parking is available at the site, but RV’s and camping units are not allowed. Reservations for Primitive Camping can be made by calling the park office at 276-940-2674.

    Amenities:

    Five 15 ft. x 15 ft. tent pads. Common area with fire ring. Covered eating area with four picnic tables. Utility building with electricity and lights suitable for storage or food prep (no cooking inside the shed).

    Parking for up to five vehicles. (Limited overflow parking available at the campground entrance). No RV or camping trailer parking is available. Potable water spigot at the entrance to the primitive camping area. Two portable toilets. (No showers on site.)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Misfit Farmz Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Misfit Farmz Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Misfit Farmz Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Misfit Farmz Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Misfit Farmz Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Misfit Farmz Campground

    3. Misfit Farmz Campground

    1 Review
    11 Photos
    5 Saves
    Pennington Gap, Virginia

    The campground is located in Jonesville Virginia on a large creek in the woods. We have unlimited camping spots and can accommodate large groups. Picnic tables available. All fires must be inside the campground an inside a fire pit. Fresh spring water is provide but necessary to treat if used for drinking. Firewood can be provided for a small fee. No cutting of live trees are allowed but you can pick up dead limbs. We live on sight so should you need anything just ask. Enjoy your stay!!!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group

    $15 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost
    Camper-submitted photo from Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost
    Camper-submitted photo from Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost
    Camper-submitted photo from Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost
    Camper-submitted photo from Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost
    Camper-submitted photo from Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost

    4. Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost

    2 Reviews
    19 Photos
    5 Saves
    Coeburn, Virginia

    Strategic Location for peaceful camping with lots of nearby options. Camping is very primitive and rustic as new amenities come online in planned future. The best time of booking is the weekend at present.

    We have:

    Wooded/Grassy hills with plenty of tree cover and open space to spread out . A uniquely positioned community fire pit is available with an impressive view. It is very rustic and primitive, but well kept, quiet, secluded, with developing surroundings.

    There is direct access to Jefferson National Forest and miles of hiking, biking and horseback trails. Equestrians encouraged, but is Bring your own horse and Tie Line.

    Nearby sites include Bark Camp Lake, Guest River Gorge, Bear Rock, Little Stony Falls, Chief Benge Trail, Devils Bath Tub, and High Knob. We are also located along several driving and scenic routes to include: Backroads of the Cumberland's, Appalachian Backroads, Virginia Wildlife and Birding Trail, and Thomas Jefferson Scenic Byway (Rt. 72). In addition, within a short drive there is an ATV trailhead in the local town. The Clinch River is not far at all as well.

    There is a small quaint downtown less than 5 miles with grocery, gas, supplies, and a few places to eat.

    Mission:

    The original idea for CR Adventure Outpost came many years ago. We grew up visiting "Grandma & Grandpa" in Wise County and developed a deep love for the area, the outdoors, and all it had to offer. There came a point, , when we realized that the amount of outdoor activities and authentic cultural experiences could indeed support visitors. It could also support many business opportunities once everyone became aware of what was all around them. At that point, a process began of research and planning on ideas some thought were pointless. People deeply want to get back to nature and withdrawal from a fast paced materialistic society, at least long enough to realize what is really important in life. There is a huge need and vast opportunity to take advantage of the many beautiful landscapes in Southwest Virginia.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian

    $20 - $35 / night

    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Phillip's Creek Group Picnic Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Phillip's Creek Group Picnic Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Phillip's Creek Group Picnic Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Phillip's Creek Group Picnic Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Phillip's Creek Group Picnic Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Phillip's Creek Group Picnic Area

      6. Phillip's Creek Group Picnic Area

      1 Review
      8 Photos
      1 Save
      Pound, Virginia

      Overview

      Phillips's Creek Group Picnic area is a secluded site surrounded by forest. It is a great facility for family reunions, organization activities and other group events.

      Recreation

      Open lawn areas are adjacent to the picnic area can be used for activities such as horseshoes, sports and games (bring your own game and sports equipment). Hiking trails are available within easy driving distance and include Pine Mountain and Red Fox Trails. The Phillip's Creek Trail is near the picnic area.

      Facilities

      Parking is adjacent to the picnic shelters and restroom facilities. The restrooms are pit toilets. The toilets are adjacent to shelter #1 but are a short walk (850 feet) from shelter #2. A large charcoal grill is available at both shelters. Picnic tables are located inside the shelters. There is no electricity or drinking water available.

      Natural Features

      The picnic area is surrounded by forest. The North Fork of Pound Reservoir is nearby and is a popular boating and fishing destination.

      Nearby Attractions

      The Pine Mountain and Red Fox Trails are within easy driving distance.

      • Tents
      • Group

      $25 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Rest & Ride Ranch
      Camper-submitted photo from Rest & Ride Ranch
      Camper-submitted photo from Rest & Ride Ranch
      Camper-submitted photo from Rest & Ride Ranch
      Camper-submitted photo from Rest & Ride Ranch

      7. Rest & Ride Ranch

      Be the first to review!
      5 Photos
      Eidson, Tennessee

      Discover the Unique Ranch Experience.

      Thank you for considering your next adventure with us. While we're still a work in progress, we're excited to offer a place for you to pitch your tent and enjoy the great outdoors. With a minimum stay of 2 nights, you'll have the opportunity to experience the beginnings of what will soon be a primitive lifestyle experience.

      Picture yourself horseback riding on our 11-acre property or taking a refreshing dip in one of our swimming holes. As night falls, enjoy the warmth of summer evenings while gazing at the stars above. Please note that at the moment, we're only offering dry camping, but rest assured, shower facilities and restrooms are in the works.

      It's important to mention that all proceeds from your stay will go towards our equine rescue efforts. Thank you for considering us for your outdoor getaway, and we look forward to welcoming you soon!

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Trash

      $25 - $45 / night

      • No image available

        8. Covered Bridge Campout

        Be the first to review!
        Bulls Gap, Tennessee
        • Pets
        • Phone Service
        • Reservable
        • ADA Access
        • Tents
        • Trash

        $30 - $120 / night

        • No image available
          Camper-submitted photo from Camping with the Cows
          Camper-submitted photo from Camping with the Cows
          Camper-submitted photo from Camping with the Cows
          Camper-submitted photo from Camping with the Cows
          Camper-submitted photo from Camping with the Cows
          Camper-submitted photo from Camping with the Cows

          10. Camping with the Cows

          Be the first to review!
          9 Photos
          Bean Station, Tennessee

          We are an established longhorn ranch, focusing on harvesting grass-fed longhorn beef. Our mountain property is bordered on the east end by a shady ravine with a spring-fed creek. This area is ripe with amazing forage and hiking opportunities or simply a quiet place to rest and rejuvenate. The relatively undisturbed area is perfect to unplug with yourself, your partner or your family. A great option for groups looking for prepper-ready practices as well. All sites have hiking access to see the cattle, the Shiloh Hill has direct access to the paddock fences.

          Each tent spot will sleep up to 6 people, and host 1 - 3 tents depending on your tent size. Some added amenities are firewood and fire ring provided, community shower room and composting toity. The spots are hike in only with transportation available to help assist your set up. Concierge services include tent/equipment rental, Sunday brunch at check out, snack shack on site and access to our fresh spring for drinking water. Farm tours and extended stays are also available upon request.

          We anticipate you arriving as guests and departing as friends.

          • Pets
          • Fires
          • Reservable
          • Tents
          • Group
          • Yurts

          $50 - $100 / night

        Show More
        Showing results 1-10 of 17 campgrounds

        Recent Tent Reviews in Pennington Gap

        308 Reviews of 17 Pennington Gap Campgrounds


        • AThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
          Oct. 7, 2024

          Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

          CLOSED.

          I rode all the way over here from Greeneville to check out the area in order to bring a group of friends camping next weekend.

          BUT the entire campground is closed. When I pulled up to the iron gate and saw the sign, it read "CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC DUE TO VANDALISM AND UNAUTHORIZED ACTIVITY"

        • Tripp A.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
          Oct. 5, 2024

          Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

          Closed to Public

          I drove over an hour to get here to find that it is “closed to public for vandalism”. I was very upset by this but obviously nothing I could do. Just wish I knew how to check before driving all the way. But the drive! Woah! So beautiful, I wish there was a way I could find out when it opens back up because I was very much looking forward to camping here.

        • Timothy  F.
          Camper-submitted photo from Bristol-Kingsport KOA
          Oct. 3, 2024

          Bristol-Kingsport KOA

          This is a very nice campground

          We arrive very late, after all day travels from Florida. My phone had three bars, Verizon 5G ultra wide signal.

        • TThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Buckhorn Dam Campground
          Sep. 19, 2024

          Buckhorn Dam Campground

          Ghost Town

          The map for this campground isn’t quite accurate. Also, the price is $24 p/ night not $14. Not quite what we were looking for.

        • J
          Camper-submitted photo from Copperhead Ridge Glamping & RV Park
          Sep. 1, 2024

          Copperhead Ridge Glamping & RV Park

          Cancelled my reservation less than a month out.

          Paid in full in 2023 for 2024. Checked in May 2024, all good on reservations, stated looking forward to seeing me in September. August 31, 2024, received an email stating they could not accommodate me for the agreed upon reservation. Tried to call, went straight to voicemail, mailbox full.

        • SThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping — Natural Tunnel State Park
          Aug. 4, 2024

          Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping — Natural Tunnel State Park

          Primitive at its finest

          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. Then there is a very large, communal fire pit, and an open but covered shelter with picnic tables and an outlet to charge your tech things. Water spigot at top, a little walk, uphill, for water. The camp store people said they are unable to use spigot nearby common shelter because it’s no good. 🤷🏻‍♀️ Glad we brought our large bladder so we weren’t constantly going up and down the hill for water. Camp store with some basics at entrance, and person on golf cart drives around checking on things. Trash dumpster, up the hill just past water spigot. Couldn’t have asked for a more peaceful place, especially for the price, $15/night. Took advantage of some of the hiking trails, which were well maintained and marked. Also, went and checked out the natural tunnel via chairlift. The other two campgrounds looked nice, with big, fancy bathhouses. And the cabins, wow, fancy! Hooray for Virginia State Parks!!

        • SThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground — Warriors' Path State Park
          Jul. 27, 2024

          Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground — Warriors' Path State Park

          Nice state park with lots of activities and options

          This is an enjoyable State Park with a lot to offer. The rangers and staff may be the nicest we’ve encountered. 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. It houses an acclaimed mountain bike trail area. Nearby you can golf and ride horses. Cell coverage varies from LTE to 5G all over the park.

           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!! Each site has a fire ring, and small grate grill and a picnic table. The sites up on the ridge are probably sized only for tents and Class B units; many are sloped. The newly updated section, Moody Bluff, has FHU and a number of pull-through sites. It only has trees around the edge of one side giving it an open field feeling. 

          The main campground has its own boat ramp for access to the reservoir. The camp store has a small offering of RV accessories and ice for$2.00. The main campground shower units are individual and separate from the bathrooms. There are ADA shower stalls, bathrooms, and ramps. While the bath house is older and could use fresh paint it was meticulously clean all week. 

          We spent a long weekend with several other RV couples. Nearby Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium provides engaging planetarium shows, a herpetarium, wildlife sections with bobcats, foxes, gray wolves, and raptors, as well as hiking trails. Restaurants, grocery stores and big box retail stores are 10 minutes away in Kingsport. 

          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. Our group host had enough room on their site(58) that they could erect two shelters for our meals. The forest was right up to our sides and we had lovely birdsong to awaken us every morning. I would definitely return, especially if the larger sites were available.

        • A
          Camper-submitted photo from Cherokee Lake Campground
          Jul. 19, 2024

          Cherokee Lake Campground

          Great deal for the money!

          Overall was impressed with the grounds! Well kept, and huge park. Only reason for 4 stars, is no sewer hookup on site. Several Dump stations on grounds, though they are free for guests. Very friendly Park Rangers at the check-in station. 30 amp hookups. Water hookup. Several Lake front spots. Shower and bathroom buildings on site. Several pavilions. Dumpsters, Lots of walking trails. As well as a boat ramp. For $25 a night, with my 28ft pull behind, I was very pleased with my stay! Will come back again!

        • J
          Camper-submitted photo from Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground
          Jul. 14, 2024

          Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park Campground

          Great campground.

          Very well kept campground. Staff were very nice. One of the cleanest parks I have visited. Lots of historical places to visit in the area. Slightly tough to get to, thats why only 4 stars. Don’t let that keep you from visiting.

        • janie B.
          Camper-submitted photo from Around Pond RV Park
          Jul. 10, 2024

          Around Pond RV Park

          July 4th 2024

          Did a couple of days at Around the Pond Campground in Greenville Tennessee.( mtns.) It was a awesome trip with our friends Ronni Herold& Dean. And our new friends we met Nancy Riegelsperger& her husband Herb.Campground was clean and the staff was very friendly.

        • kThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Thunder Mountain Campground
          Jun. 10, 2024

          Thunder Mountain Campground

          Outdated

          Their website is from 2018. They have new owners and have let transit stay there campers look terrible. The place is really went downhill. It used to be really nice. Beware if you have a new camper. Looks like that newest campers like a 2010.

        • hThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
          May. 13, 2024

          Palmers Junction Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

          Not too shabby for the south

          Lots of lil cozy pull offs on an easy gravel road. Lots of longer term people staying it seemed like (or just really full send camping friends lol). Many fire rings and spots by the lake. Unfortunately the other reviews are right - A decent amount of trash. There are trash cans and porta potties. I’ve seen worse porta potties at festivals but there were a few stinky ones.

        • Lucy P.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Wilderness Road State Park Campground
          May. 1, 2024

          Wilderness Road State Park Campground

          Very mixed bag

          This campground had some good features: hookups and bathhouse were good, location is very pretty, staff clearly take good care of things. Mostly older folks mid week so pretty quiet.

          But for some reason there is a path that goes through several campsites. We booked one of these sites without knowing (B12), which meant we had strangers walking through our campsite all the time. Our dogs hated it and so did we! Also sites are close together, most aren’t level, and some are in clear disrepair. They also do a good job cleaning the bathhouses, but they do it from 8-9am which is also when many people are trying to use them.

        • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
          Camper-submitted photo from Bellebrook Acres
          Apr. 9, 2024

          Bellebrook Acres

          New to the Dyrt!

          Jake from the Dyrt here! We're excited to have this campground on the Dyrt and ready for you to book, check them out and make sure to leave a review!

        • Copperhead Ridge Glamping & RV Park
          Camper-submitted photo from Copperhead Ridge Glamping & RV Park
          Feb. 26, 2024

          Copperhead Ridge Glamping & RV Park

          An amazing place to visit and make memories

          We stayed for the Bristol Rhythm & Roots festival in the glampers and loved the romantic atmosphere at night. The trees are lit up with a warm glowing light.  The pond fountain whispers you to sleep. The manager and staff were awesome and accommodating. They truly want you to make a lifetime of memories on your visit.

        • Andy J.
          Camper-submitted photo from Out on The Creek Campground
          Nov. 28, 2023

          Out on The Creek Campground

          Creekside camping mountain views

          Great place to camp along side the creek or rv lots with mountain views. Walking distance to Clinch River. Kayak, Hiking, Biking, spacious lots

        • Amethyst B.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Cove View Campground — Natural Tunnel State Park
          Nov. 3, 2023

          Cove View Campground — Natural Tunnel State Park

          Primitive Heaven.

          A “secret spot” that holds a special place in my heart.

          I spend on average 10 days at a time camping in the primitive grounds (April/May, Aug/Sep & end of October 2023 ) all five spaces are nicely kept and a large communal fire pit is wonderful. Even when all sites are full. There’s plenty of space. Porter Johns on site as well (and nicely maintained for what that’s worth! )

          By far - the best camp ground I’ve visited in terms of Hosts, rangers, amenities if needed, scenery and solitude.

          Take bear and coyote warnings SERIOUSLY my friends. I’ve seen plenty out there but never had a problem taking proper precautions. Also the crows - smarter than normal haha they WILL wake you up earlier than the other birds demanding you make breakfast and leave so they can then hop around your camp.

          Your cell service will be spotty / non existent on trails around the area… even when you see a road running parallel to your hike .. plan accordingly. (And bear spray people. Please. Just take it)

          Plenty of wood split ($4 a bundle. Ice $2 a bag) and hosts will graciously bring wood to your camp site <3

          The “trail” off the primitive site doesn’t seem to be on a map - and I heard many different variations of where it went. So I hiked the whole thing just for y’all! It’s an in and out(maybe a mile give or take total) that dead ends to PRIVATE property. (So obviously don’t proceed past gate) Lots of beautiful growth, cool in the summer with shade - nice quiet trail for dogs - half way is definitely less of a beaten path. Use caution.

          HIGHLY recommend getting in before last light. Especially if you’re towing anything, roads are steep and winding getting to and from camp/cabins. And lotssss of deer / rabbits at dawn and dusk jumping around.

          In a nutshell - this park gets a 10/10 from a solo female camper. Everyone is mindful of one another’s space and solitude - however in true Appalachian fashion everyone also looks out for you and always ready to lend a helping hand.

        • G
          Camper-submitted photo from Baileyton KOA Holiday
          Oct. 10, 2023

          Baileyton KOA Holiday

          We’ll kept KOA

          Very typical KOA. We’ll kept, sites are gravel, level and not too close. Bathhouses are new and clean. WiFi is so so. Convinient to I81.


        Drive Time


        Guide to Pennington Gap

        Tent camping near Pennington Gap, Virginia offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying a variety of outdoor activities. With several campgrounds in the area, you'll find options that cater to different preferences and needs.

        Tent campers should check out Kingdom Come State Park Campground

        • Kingdom Come State Park Campground features seven sites equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and food storage poles to keep your supplies safe from wildlife.
        • The campground is surrounded by hiking trails, including the popular Raven Rock trail, which provides stunning views of the mountains.
        • Enjoy fishing in the nearby stocked lake, where you can catch trout, bass, and sunfish, making it a great spot for anglers.

        Tips for tent camping near Pennington Gap

        • When visiting Natural Tunnel State Park Primitive Camping, be prepared for a peaceful experience with well-maintained tent pads and communal fire pits.
        • Make sure to bring a large water bladder if camping at Natural Tunnel, as the water spigot is a bit of a hike uphill.
        • At Misfit Farmz Campground, families can enjoy a welcoming atmosphere with the option for private events, making it a versatile choice for gatherings.

        Local activities to enjoy while camping

        • Explore the scenic trails at Jefferson National Forest High Knob Campground, where you can hike and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
        • Visit the nearby Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost for cozy accommodations and access to kayaking at Bark Camp Lake and hiking at Little Stoney Falls.
        • For a unique experience, check out the fishing opportunities at Phillip's Creek Group Picnic Area, which is close to a lake, perfect for a day of relaxation.

        Frequently Asked Questions

        • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Pennington Gap, VA?

          According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Pennington Gap, VA is Kingdom Come State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 6 reviews.

        • What is the best site to find tent camping near Pennington Gap, VA?

          TheDyrt.com has all 17 tent camping locations near Pennington Gap, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.