Places to Camp near Chattanooga, TN
Camping near Chattanooga, Tennessee
Camping near Chattanooga, Tennessee, offers a diverse range of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From the scenic vistas of Cloudland Canyon to the serene waters of Harrison Bay, there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly campground with plenty of amenities or a more rustic, back-to-nature experience, the campgrounds around Chattanooga have you covered.
Chattanooga's campgrounds are known for their beautiful settings, well-maintained facilities, and a variety of activities. However, it's important to know what to expect before you go. This guide will help you understand what to do, what campers like and dislike, and provide tips for families and RVers.
What to do
Chattanooga's campgrounds offer a plethora of activities to keep you entertained. From hiking and fishing to exploring caves and enjoying breathtaking views, there's no shortage of things to do.
At Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground, you can hike along the edge of a canyon with beautiful vistas or trek through the gulch with canyon walls towering overhead. As Jon L. mentioned in his review, "The hikes are diverse from walking along the edge of a canyon with beautiful vistas to trekking through the gulch with canyon walls towering overhead."
For those who enjoy water activities, Harrison Bay State Park Campground offers plenty of lake access for boating, kayaking, and swimming. Jean B. shared in her review, "There is plenty of lake access for boating, kayaking, and swimming."
If you're into exploring caves, Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground is a must-visit. Tiffany V. noted in her review, "The tour of the caverns was well worth the money spent and in much more of a natural state in comparison to Ruby Falls."
What campers like
Campers appreciate the well-maintained facilities, friendly staff, and beautiful natural settings of the campgrounds near Chattanooga. Many campgrounds offer amenities like clean bathrooms, hot showers, and convenient access to hiking trails and scenic views.
At Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground, Ransom J. praised the facilities in his review, "The bathroom and showers are very new and well-maintained. The views of the canyon below are breathtaking."
Harrison Bay State Park Campground also receives high marks for its cleanliness and amenities. Dennis S. mentioned in his review, "The bathrooms and showers get cleaned every afternoon and in campground D there isn’t many people using the bath houses so you have a clean bathroom with a hot shower every night or morning of your stay."
Campers at Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground appreciate the friendly staff and well-kept facilities. Gayle G. shared in her review, "The camp staffers are friendly and helpful. The facilities are clean and the park is well kept."
What you should know
While camping near Chattanooga offers many positives, there are a few things to keep in mind. Some campgrounds can get crowded, and sites may be close together. Additionally, certain campgrounds may have specific rules or lack certain amenities.
At Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground, Lucy P. noted in her review, "The sites are very close together here and you can expect it to usually be booked up."
Harrison Bay State Park Campground can also be busy, especially during peak seasons. Kevan R. mentioned in his review, "Campgrounds A, B and C are tight, limited space. Campground D is tent only - preferred for a camping experience."
At Chester Frost Park, DJody H. pointed out in his review, "Pretty view. Kind of a bad smell. Bath houses are hit or miss."
Tips for camping with families
Camping with families near Chattanooga can be a rewarding experience with the right preparation. Many campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities like playgrounds, swimming areas, and easy access to hiking trails.
At Lookout Mountain-Chattanooga West KOA, Carolin C. highlighted the family-friendly features in her review, "The campground is very well maintained, has a large pool, playground and giant in-ground bounce balloon for the kids, and a fenced-in dog park complete with slides and playground equipment for dogs!"
Harrison Bay State Park Campground also offers activities for kids. Dennis S. mentioned in his review, "There is also a 'beach' you can hang out and swim at which is beautiful and is great for kids."
For a more rustic experience, Prentice Cooper State Forest Dispersed offers a secluded setting. Cole T. shared in his review, "Prentice Cooper is an amazing place and offers two campgrounds and several backcountry camping spots."
Tips from RVers
RVers will find plenty of options near Chattanooga, with many campgrounds offering full hookups, level sites, and easy access to amenities. However, it's important to choose a campground that suits your needs and preferences.
At Holiday Travel Park, MickandKarla W. shared in their review, "Check-in was easy and we proceeded to pull through site 143 with FHUs. It was very easy to pull in and utilities were nicely placed in the middle of the pad."
Chattanooga North-Cleveland KOA offers well-maintained sites and amenities. Beverly A. noted in her review, "The sites are distributed within a landscape that allows them to be terraced and therefore nicely separated."
For those looking for a more scenic experience, Marion County Park offers beautiful views. David F. mentioned in his review, "COUNTY PARK campground surrounded by water with a 5th mountain view. Great travel stop off I-24 Interstate hwy."
Camping near Chattanooga, Tennessee, offers a variety of experiences for all types of campers. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly campground with plenty of amenities or a more rustic, back-to-nature experience, the campgrounds around Chattanooga have something for everyone.
