This article about 7 great tri-cities campgrounds is brought to you by Midland — the best walkie talkies for the mountains & two-way radios.
Northeastern Tennessee is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in North America, from the Appalachian Mountain range to the gorgeous oak trees of the Cherokee National Forest. If you’re ready to explore this stunning natural area, begin with a stay at a high-quality and picturesque camping in Northeastern, Tennessee.
1. Roan Mountain
Image from The Dyrt camper Katrin M.
This scenic campground is less than an hour’s drive southeast of Kingsport, in the middle of the iconic Appalachian Mountain range in east Tennessee. The Roan Mountain State Park has rolling, forested hills and a wide variety of colorful, wild flora.
There are 86 RV sites, each with electric hookups, and 20 tent sites for solo hikers and trail walkers.
“Beautiful camping on top of the mountain balds! Watch the sunrise and sunset, but pack appropriately for the wind. The Appalachian Trail passes through this campsite!” – Jolie L.
Campground Details:
- Price: $15-35
- Number of sites: 106
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
2. Natural Tunnel
If you want to get out of Kingsport for a couple of days, head to the Natural Tunnel campground. It will only take you 30 minutes in the car to get there, and you’ll love exploring the 850’-long limestone ridge that gives this state park its name.
There’s a store on-site if you find yourself short on supplies, and your kids can spend hours playing in the nearby swimming pool, with its 100’-long water slide.
“The historical background of the state park is varied and extensive, so there are a lot of things to see within the park and surrounding the park.” –Myron C.
Campground Details:
- Price: $15-45
- Number of sites: 59
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
3. Warriors’ Path State Park
Image from The Dyrt camper Stephanie J.
If you’re searching for a camping experience closer to the big city, visit the Warriors’ Path State Park campground. This site lies along the banks of the Patrick Henry Reservoir in the southeast section of Kingsport.
Many of the campsites have full electrical hookups, and you can buy firewood from the nearby store. Each site has a picnic table where you can enjoy relaxing meals with friends and family.
“Our site was secluded, very clean, and quiet. In fact, all facilities were clean and well-maintained. Lots of trails to hike, nice camp store, friendly employees.” –Rosa S.
Campground Details:
- Price: $15-30
- Number of sites: 134
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
4. Cardens Bluff Campground
This campground lies at the foot of Watauga Lake, around 40 miles southeast of Kingsport. Watersport fans can relish the opportunities for boating, kayaking, and swimming on the nearby lake. Hikers enjoy exploring the surrounding Cherokee National Forest.
“Beautiful wooded campground with a few sites on the water. Perfect for canoeing.” – Roxanne R.
Campground Details:
- Price: $10-20
- Number of sites: 43
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
5. Little Oak Campground
Image from The Dyrt camper Daniel T.
It takes just over an hour in the car to get to this campsite from Kingsport, but the incredible stargazing opportunities and views of the Holston Mountain range make the longer journey worth it.
Kids and adults can take walks along the picturesque lakeshore. The site’s easy access ramp is great for boating.
“The campfire setup worked out well, and the view of the lake was unbeatable. The staff running the campground were incredible.” – Kace L.
Campground Details:
- Price: $10-20
- Number of sites: 69
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
6. Bristol/Kingsport KOA
This KOA-run campground is nestled between Bristol and Kingsport’s cities, about 6 miles north of the Tri-Cities Airport. The site is easy to reach from Interstate 81, and your kids will love playing in the on-site pool.
The sites are well-equipped, with full electrical hookups and 50-amp plugs. You can use the community campfires to roast marshmallows with friends and family.
“I’d never used a KOA before but was tremendously impressed with the serene beauty of this place situated well away from traffic in a bucolic setting.” – Susan E.
Campground Details:
- Price: $25-60
- Number of sites: 69
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
7. Dennis Cove Campground
Image from The Dyrt camper Jennie O.
This small and affordable campground is situated alongside a scenic creek, around 40 miles southeast of Kingsport. Kids can splash around in the stream’s refreshing waters during the summer months, while those seeking a cathartic, calming experience should spend some time exploring the surrounding forest.
“The sites are clean! Lots of exploring around and the short hike is great for kids.” – Jenni O.
Campground Details:
- Price: $10-20
- Number of sites: 15
- RV sites: No
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
There’s no better way to explore northeastern Tennessee than by staying at a picturesque and well-equipped campground in the Tri-Cities area. These campgrounds are just a few examples of the excellent options available. For more fantastic opportunities, look at The Dyrt’s comprehensive list of the best camping in Kingsport.
This article about camping near Kingsport was brought to you by Midland. Be sure to pack one of their weather radios in case of emergencies on your camping trip
