The best campgrounds near Bristol, Tennessee with hiking

Welcome to Hipcamp, the go-to website for camping enthusiasts in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Bristol, Tennessee, with a focus on hiking, you're in luck. We have over 2700 options available for you to choose from. Whether you prefer a rustic campsite or a cozy cabin, we've got you covered. Some of our top campsites near Bristol, Tennessee, include Starlight Hills (627 reviews), Dark Ridge Hide Out (422 reviews), and Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Farm (388 reviews). With amenities like potable water, toilets, and pet-friendly sites, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. And if you're feeling adventurous, popular activities in the area include climbing, snow sports, and off-roading (OHV). So pack your hiking boots and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

97% (2.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Bristol

Welcome to Hipcamp, the go-to website for camping enthusiasts in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Bristol, Tennessee, with a focus on hiking, you're in luck. We have over 2700 options available for you to choose from. Whether you prefer a rustic campsite or a cozy cabin, we've got you covered. Some of our top campsites near Bristol, Tennessee, include Starlight Hills (627 reviews), Dark Ridge Hide Out (422 reviews), and Smoky Mountain Mangalitsa Farm (388 reviews). With amenities like potable water, toilets, and pet-friendly sites, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. And if you're feeling adventurous, popular activities in the area include climbing, snow sports, and off-roading (OHV). So pack your hiking boots and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

97% (2.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Bristol

1. Romantic, hot tub, pet friendly

99%

(97)

38mi from Bristol · 5 sites · Lodging

(HELP IN PLANNING THE BEST HIKES IN WESTERN NC (SUNRISE, SUNSET, 6000FT PEAKS, BIRD WATCHING, ETC! INCLUDED) Escape to the serene beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains at our unique retreat in Bakersville, NC. Nestled on over 60 private acres amid some of the highest peaks east of the Mississippi—including nearby Mount Mitchell (6,684 ft)—our five distinctive arched cabins offer the perfect blend of modern comfort, privacy, and breathtaking views. Each fully equipped cabin is a cozy tiny home featuring: A comfortable queen bedroom Private full bathroom with shower Well-appointed kitchenette (sink, microwave, mini-fridge, coffee maker, and essentials) Spacious living area with sofa and Roku smart TV Step outside to your private deck with a bubbling hot tub—ideal for stargazing or soaking in panoramic mountain vistas. Gather around your personal campfire pit (firewood provided) for cozy evenings under the clear Appalachian skies. Cabins are thoughtfully spaced for romantic seclusion while close enough to share the magic with friends or family. Adventure awaits right on the property with miles of private hiking trails winding through forested ridges and scenic overlooks. As local hiking experts, we're passionate about guiding you to the best trails—easy strolls, moderate paths, or challenging hikes reaching elevations over 6,000 feet on the iconic Appalachian Trail (just minutes away at Carver's Gap or Roan Mountain). Explore nearby gems like the sparkling North Toe River for fishing or tubing, world-famous Mitchell County gem mines, and the stunning Roan Mountain balds (famous for June rhododendron blooms). Our historic land adds a touch of intrigue—once part of the area's colorful past. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, outdoor adventure, or peaceful relaxation, our arched cabins provide an unforgettable mountain escape. Book your slice of Blue Ridge paradise today!

2. Plumtree Campground Tents & Cabins

98%

(172)

38mi from Bristol · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Plumtree Campground and Retreat is an off-the-beaten-path property for hikers, bikers (both pedal and motor), campers, adventurers, parkway goers, mountain lovers, fisherman, and skiers/snowboarders.Learn more about this land:Plumtree Campground and Retreat is an off-the-beaten-path property for hikers, bikers (both pedal and motor), campers, adventurers, parkway goers, mountain lovers, fisherman, and skiers/snowboarders.The property is the former Blind Squirrel Campground which included a zip line recreation area. Relics remain, with zip lines and bridges still running through the tree canopy and an old climbing wall. These aren’t currently in use, and cannot be explored, but they add a wonderland-like quality to the land. Other features also remain that can be used: a sliding rock waterfall which is a short hike within the campground property, moderate trails for hiking, and mountain biking running from the waterfall through the back of the property (these trails are mountainous, so please enter at your own risk), fruit trees, blueberry bushes, small trout pond, a playground, an open meadow for star gazing, and our friendly neighborhood duck, Howard. (He hangs by the pond and accepts treats!) You are welcome to explore all these features, but please be mindful and respectful of residents and guests, do not enter or explore the greenhouses or gardens, and remain aware that this is mountainous terrain with inherent risks.This is a rustic property in the forest, centrally located to all the area has to offer. Privately run, we offer a variety of lodging options:- Seasonal and daily camping with full hook up RV sites- Popup sites, tent sites with water and electric- Group tent site with pavilion- Primitive tent sites- Primitive cabins (no electricity/water)- Lodge with four bedrooms/bath- Cabin with a two-bedroom/bath among the trees- Cabin with a one-bedroom/bath pond side- Studio apartments. Four available. Includes one bedroom/bath Campsites include a fire pit, picnic table, and electric/water/sewer depending on the site. There are 5 tent sites boasting elevated tent platforms nestled against the mountain. Sites are generally mossy, treed (think hammocks!), and have gravel parking. There are 3 his and her bathhouses on the property with the largest within walking distance of the tent loop, with 2 toilets and 3 stall showers each.This corner of the world has so much to offer and we are close, but just far away enough from it all. The scenic drives alone are worth venturing out:- Blue Ridge Parkway- Linville Falls- Linville Caverns- Grandfather Mountain- Beech Mt Ski Slope/Rec area- Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing Park- Sugar Mt Ski Slope/Rec area- Roan Mt State Park- Appalachian Trail- Yellow Mountain Gap Trail Head- North Toe River- Banner Elk- Little Switzerland- Mayland Dark Sky Observatory- Brown Mountain OHV Trail SystemAll these adventures within a 20-40-minute drive. Boone is only 50 minutes away, and Asheville 1 hr. 20 minutes.Off HWY 19-E is Spears Country Store, about 5 minutes from here, where you can get basic supplies, propane, and gas. We can also provide firewood for a fee. Ingles grocery stores in both Newland and Spruce Pine are just 20 minutes away. In Spruce Pine you will also find a Walmart, historic downtown with many shops and restaurants. Be aware cell service can be spotty in the area depending on your carrier. WIFI is offered, but not guaranteed due to the mountainous terrain. One of the joys of being deep in the mountains, true disconnection from the everyday!3 night minimum required for holiday weekends.Plumtree Campground & Retreat913 Big Plumtree Creek RoadNewland, NC 28657

3. Loafers Joy Meadow

98%

(254)

33mi from Bristol · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

10/9/2024 NOTICE: We had some damage to our road due to Hurricane Helene that made it impassable. It has since been repaired and is opened to traffic. There are still some remaining rough areas, but the road is easily passable by passenger vehicles and RV's up to 28ft. Our site was once part of a much larger farm growing tobacco and raising cattle and other farm animals. The existing tobacco barn was built in the early 1960's. The concrete pad used for RV camping was used to store silage for the cows. The non-potable water source is a mountain spring that has been used on the farm since the 1930's. While many tobacco barns in the area have been torn down for their rusted tin roofing and rustic siding, we have worked to restore the barn and preserve its history.

4. Cherokee National Forest

96%

(48)

625 sites · Mountain City, Tennessee

Follow us to Tennessee and dive into the grandeur of the Cherokee National Forest! It’s filled to the brim with scenic forested trails, rushing rivers, and rainbow trout. During the day you can go rafting, and at night you can bask yourself in moonshine (of various sorts) and brush up on your constellations. If you are in pursuit of some Appalachian Mountain bliss, this is the right place to start. Don’t forget your camera, you're going to want to show these vistas off!

5. Warriors’ Path State Park

100%

(1)

134 sites · Colonial Heights, Tennessee

Discover Warriors’ Path State Park: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

6. Cook Property RV

100%

(1)

23mi from Bristol · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging

Learn more about this land: Come and park your RV and enjoy tons of activities in and around Mountain City and the surrounding area. On the property you can walk through the woods, sit by the stream and listen to the water rushing downstream or trickling if we haven’t had rain. We accommodate one RV at a time and provide water and hookups in a circle drive through on private property. The owner's house and two outbuildings are on the property. A future cabin and pottery shop are in the works. If you like the privacy and quiet away from other camper then you will enjoy your stay with us. Pets are welcome! WI-FI is available. Campfires allowed in designated area if permitted by Fire Dept. Between October 15 to May 15 a burn permit is required. Permits are free, Owner can obtain for you. Located 1/2 mile down the road is an entrance to Doe Mountain Recreation Area. ATV rentals available or bring your own. UTV and dirt bikes also allowed. ATV tours available at the entrance. Other nearby activities and amenities include: Johnson County TN County Airport - 10 minutes away Enterprise car rental in Boone NC. 26 miles away Lake Watauga boat ramp 10 miles away rentals at Lake Shore Marina Damascus Virginia 20 mile scenic drive from our property following Laurel Creek where you can find bike rentals and a shuttle for the Virginia Creeper Trail. Damascus is also an Appalachian Trail destination for supplies. “The snake” motorcycle road trip Day trips to Gatlinburg, Dollywood, Asheville, and Bristol where country music began Blue Ridge Parkway is accessible from Blowing Rock NC. and pass Boone NC. which would make a nice Day trip Boone NC 24 miles away offers a Quaint downtown with Shops and restaurants Tweetsie Railroad Park between Boone and Blowing Rock NC. Grandfather Mountain State Park located an hour away featuring the Mile High Swinging Bridge located two miles north of Linville, North Carolina, and one mile south of the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 305. This year the Grandfather Mountains Scottish Highland Games will be July 7-10, 2022. Their website https://gmhg.org/ If you watched the “Outlander” series Grandfather’s Mountain is the area where Jamie and Claire settled in North Carolina Continue 15 minutes from Linville NC. To Linville Falls hiking trails with 4 overlooks for the falls and Duggers Creek Falls a smaller falls located in the same park. Other State Parks nearby: Roan Mountain State Park Elk Knob State Park Grayson Highlands State Park Hungry Mother State Park Warrior’s Path State Park Sycamore Shoals State Park Bristol Motor speedway NASCAR races April and September- 49 miles away Fall foliage peak mid October spectacular color 3 mountains to ski in nearby North Carolina Sugar Mountain, Appalachian Ski Mountain, and Beech Mountain Skiing, snowboarding, tubing Wine tour, for the wine enthusiast there are 10 wineries within 1 1/2 hours from Mountain City. Taste what Tennesee, North Carolina and Virginia have to offer. Watauga Winery 20 minutes away from our property Banner Elk Winery & Villa Grandfather Vineyard and Winery Linville Falls winery Corey Ippolito Winery Thistle Meadow Winery Abingdon Vineyards Vincent’s Vineyard MountainRose Vineyards Little Switzerland Orchard and Winery Hiking trails and waterfalls Kayak and canoeing Zip lines Antiquing, auctions, and flea markets Covered Bridges Civil war sites Restaurants in or nearby Mountain City. *Suba’s *La Cucina Italian Kitchen The Pickled Beet Monsoon Thai Poblanos Mexican Grill Panda Garden Teammates Pizza Farmers Barbecue and Grill Taco Bell KFC Little Caesar’s Burger King And many more *Reservation Required Family owned restaurants close for the winter from October through February and some longer but we have chain restaurants that stay open year round. Farmer’s Market on Saturday year round Site information: Asphalt driveway 15’ wide at entrance 11 1/2’ wide at exit Narrowest width of driveway 9 1/2’ To 10 1/2’ 2 1/2” or less drop from asphalt to grass Outer curve approximately 103’ Electrical box 38’ from drive but I have 50’ extension cords for 20, 30, and 50 amp Dump station nearby

7. Farmhouse Gallery & Gardens

100%

(161)

23mi from Bristol · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Learn more about this land:You’ll cross the covered bridge (clearance 11’6” ) as you enter our farm, a 73 acre small family farm, nestled in the Buffalo Valley of Northeast TN, and featuring a down home country atmosphere. What makes our farm special are all of the unique extras: a working log cabin blacksmith shop, log cabin art gallery, certified commercial kitchen, lots of watchable wildlife, and walking trails. We have a one acre wildlife pond and a smaller pond fed by springs and Buffalo Creek, which runs through the farm. Our small buffalo herd is pastured not far from the campsites and our friendly peacocks and chickens roam the grounds. We also offer classes in blacksmithing, art, foraging and cooking periodically. We are rural but not remote and are minutes away from state parks, fishing, hiking, rafting and other recreational activities as well as downtown Johnson City and Historic Jonesborough with breweries, shops, and many restaurants. As purveyors of Appalachian culture and cuisine, we invite you to stay a day , or longer, to share our friendly and relaxing small farm atmosphere in the mountains.

8. Mountain Haven

92%

(25)

37mi from Bristol · 1 site · Tent, RV

Glamping doesn’t get better than this! Perfectly situated location. 5 mins from Sugar Mtn Ski Area. 10 mins from Banner Elk. 15 mins to Grandfather Mtn and Boone/App State. 20 mins to Beech Mtn and Blowing Rock. PLEASE NOTE: There is a slight slope to the property. Tents/Campers are best located at the top/top left of the property for flattest ground. Secluded paved lot in Banner Elk. PLEASE NOTE: it is best suited for 4x4 vehicles in Winter Months. Do not recommend tow campers, nor Class A or Class C vehicles due to skinny roads and significant elevation changes. Additionally, there is a slight slope to the property (which can be seen in the pics). Tents/Campervans are best located at the top/top left of the property for flattest ground. ). Easy access to the ski slopes, dining, shopping, App State College, Boone and Blowing Rock.

9. Rocky Face Camp

100%

(20)

33mi from Bristol · 1 site · Lodging

Nature lover’s paradise, song birds, wildlife, creek side, at the pastoral base of Rocky Face Mountain. Creek stocked for 800 feet of private fishing. Quick access to Ski Slopes and hiking trails. Plenty of room to pitch a tent to add extra guests. This is a functioning farm with horses, pigs and chickens as well as agriculture. Tiny house has WiFi, covered porch, attached bathroom- hot shower and sink, port-a-potty, kitchenette, grill and fire pit. Central to Sugar and Beech Ski Mtns, Valle Crucis and Banner Elk 10 minutes, Boone is 25 minutes away.

10. Jefferson National Forest

98%

(27)

488 sites · Bluefield, Virginia

Literally thousands of miles of hiking trails can take you anywhere you want to go.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

11. Roan Mountain State Park

97%

(15)

141 sites · Roan Mountain, Tennessee

A forested setting for hiking and wildlife watching, Roan Mountain is a Tennessee gem.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

12. Natural Tunnel State Park

100%

(2)

12 sites · Clinchport, Virginia

As tall as a city high rise, this natural cave has been attracting sightseers for over 100 years.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

13. Elk Knob State Park

100%

(2)

13 sites · Cove Creek, North Carolina

Elk Knob State Park: A Haven for Hikers and Nature Lovers.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

14. Tri Mountain View

96%

(139)

17mi from Bristol · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Tri Mountain View Campground is located in the Northeast corner of Tennessee in the town of Shady Valley. With an elevation of 2,800 feet, Shady Valley is the second highest town in Tennessee. It is just 26 miles from the Bristol Raceway and the Bristol Caverns. It is just a 15 minute drive to Backbone rock and a short drive to the Appalachian Trail. The property was a Dairy Farm and went out of business in the late 90’s and since then there has been over 3,000 trees planted. Some of these trees include the rare Butternut and Hazelnut, but mostly White Pine, Walnut and Oaks. The property has approximately 1,000 feet of fishing on Beaver dam creek, so we recommend bringing waders. There is also a shower house, washer and dryer.

15. The Corner at Spencers' Highland

97%

(107)

42mi from Bristol · 1 site · Tent, RV

Learn more about this land: 1/8 acre opening in the corner of our 10 acre property. This opening is surrounded by tall white pines on the border of Grayson Highlands State Park. 100 ft behind the opening is Mill Creek, a spring fed tributary of Wilson Creek, where Rainbow Trout can be found. There are no hookups available at this primitive campsite. Generators are allowed and RV's may dump their grey water.

16. Gusher Knob

97%

(56)

42mi from Bristol · 2 sites · Tents

Gusher Knob is a 220+ acre forested mountain near Spruce Pine, NC. One of the campsites has a 12 x 12 raised platform for your tent (we don't recommend pitching a tent anywhere other than the platform), picnic table, fire pit, and a hook to hold a lantern. This first campsite on the property has a spectacular view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A second campsite is more primitive (no picnic table or platform yet) is in a forested section with access to the Toe River. It is available now, but improvements are planned such as building a platform, adding a picnic bench and expanding the current fire pit. Please stay on the trails and the campsite areas as the surrounding land is private and monitored. Cell coverage is ok. Nearby hiking, climbing, and fly fishing are a few activities you will enjoy when visiting this lovely area of western NC. One campsite is a short 7-minute easy hike along a well-marked clear trail from the parking spot. The trail is non-technical and will mostly accommodate camping gear with wheels, such as a cooler. The other campsite takes a little longer hike to reach (10-minutes). Since it's situated in the woods, please be aware that you may encounter any number of nature's residents such as deer, squirrels, box turtles, wild turkeys, and bears. Please do not feed them and make sure to protect any food items appropriately. None of the natural residents has any interest in you personally, but they are known to be drawn to available food items.

17. Buck Ridge Resort

100%

(29)

25mi from Bristol · 1 site · Lodging

We offer primitive tent sites and two glamping cabins, one with Queen size bed and the other with two twins and a 50 Amp RV concrete slab. Separate bath house with his/her toilets and showers. Surrounded by nature and hiking trails on the property along with a creek, come stay for a night or for a week. Waterfalls are close by, Lake Watuga, ATV trails, horseback riding trails, and very private, quiet and wild.

18. Campgrounds at Little Switzerland

98%

(225)

49mi from Bristol · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina! At approximately 3,455 feet elevation we enjoy mountain breezes all summer PLEASE DO NOT ‘photo book’! We ask guests to please read through the details BEFORE booking a site. For example: not all tent sites are park at sites. Some of our more secluded sites in the woods are far from bathrooms etc. Sites near the winery/bathrooms are not secluded and you can see/hear ‘people’. The ‘wildlife’ sites require parking in guest parking and a 5 minute walk. As of Jan 2025 we change to an age 13+ campground. No one under the age of thirteen years old is permitted to camp overnight. Younger children will still be permitted to visit the winery next door to the campground during open hours but must have an adult (18 years plus) with them at ALL times! Due to an incident that could have ended in tragedy we have a zero tolerance policy of unsupervised children. You will be asked to leave if your young child is unattended by an adult. During the summer months we often have free range chicken eggs and organic produce and herbs available for our campers. We are next to our own winery/cidery that features home brew wines and beer. We also offer sodas. Firewood is for sale. You may bring your own firewood as long as it’s not from out of state. We have a few primitive sites in our woods for those who love more seclusion and places to hang hammocks. Again, PLEASE read through all the descriptions of each particular site to make certain you choose the right fit for your camping needs. We offer Hiking/jogging trails at the campground with more trails on the nearby blue ridge parkway. We are just around the corner from the famous Emerald Village Mines and only a 5 minute drive to downtown Little Switzerland. We are also only a 5 minutes drive to the famous Diamondback scenic mountain road. Approximately 20 minutes drive to Crabtree Falls on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Our cantina next door at 539 blue ridge gem mine road is open for the season and serving home brew beers and small batch ciders for ages 21 and older. Photo ID required. Sodas available for purchase as well. We now have a well lit covered porch area and club house with free WiFi and available 24 hours to our campers. Note: absolutely no outside alcohol or underage alcohol consumption permitted on premises. Anyone not in compliance with North Carolina state laws and federal laws will be evicted from campgrounds without refunds. If the campgrounds happen to be under a burn ban please understand that we can’t and will not break the law for you! All campers must obey the burn ban if in effect or face possible penalties under state law! This is for your own safety as well. Anything sold by us may be legally consumed at your campsite and is covered under our winery ABC permit. Camp host can’t go to bed until all campers are checked in so no late night arrivals please! Thank you for your understanding. Adult horseback trail rides are available at nearby Springmaid Mountain Retreat. Maps provided to Springmaid Mountain. All minors must have ADULT supervision at all times at the winery next door (older siblings do not qualify as adult supervision). With farm animals and 140 acres of woods nearby and three deep ponds in those woods it can be a dangerous situation for young, unsupervised children. If we are babysitting your children to keep them out of danger or from damaging our property you’ll be asked to leave. We want everyone to be safe. Up to 2 dogs are allowed per campsite. Dogs Must remain on leash at all times and have proof of up to date rabies vaccination. We have chickens and horses on our mini farm so please keep dogs under control at all times. Also, please do not feed our chickens, horses or any of the wildlife on our property. It is the responsibility of our campers to check the weather conditions, noting any burn bans for the area or rain etc, looking at all the rules and property details, before booking is the campers responsibility. Please do not blame the host! HipCamp now offers rainy day insurance Watch for our special events like ghost story campfire tales/walk with local guest authors, mountain yoga, herbal remedies classes, trail treasure hunts with prizes, mushroom identification classes etc. Additional parking is available for added cars in the guest parking lot area if campers have no more room at their campsite for visitors or any extra cars. We have a hot/cold shower and modern style flush toilets available in large cargo container. We also now have free Starlink WiFi in the Cantina/clubhouse area and some of the closer tent sites. Our clubhouse stays open for campers 24/7 with a microwave available, games, television and comfortable seating areas. Note: The quarter mile of gravel drive is steep but I drive my two wheel drive car up and down it every day. However, if you have a vehicle that chugs and struggles up hills (older RV etc) you may find it a challenge. We are working on getting that section paved to help out the older RVs and buses. Note: The gray building and pond area is NOT our property. Please be respectful of our neighbors and the family that lives there. Do not wander around our neighbors pond /barn area. Thank you! All campers are expected to read and follow the HipCamp guidelines. This is not just a ‘business’, it is also a family home that we are graciously sharing with you for a small fee so we expect campers to respectful of our land, our neighbors and your fellow campers. Anyone who can’t show integrity, maturity and be responsible and respectful of this will be asked to leave and/or permanently banned from both the winery and our campgrounds. No fighting! This includes couples fighting. Settle it 'off property'. We are pretty mellow, yet take bad behavior and disrespect for others very seriously. Unsupervised children has been a huge problem lately and we simply won’t tolerate very young children wandering the woods, running across other folks campsites, deliberately damaging our property etc. It is up to the parents to fully supervise their children and keep them safe! Caught without a last minute hotel room and rather not park your family in Walmart lot? We offer car camping in our parking lot for $15.00 a night. You’ll have access to bathrooms and a hot shower! We also have tents, sleeping bags and camping mats for rent. Summer of 2025 will be our third year open and there have been many wonderful improvements! ❤️ We made it through Hurricane Helene with minimal damage and with the help of some kind volunteers we have some great updates!

19. Blue Ridge Camping

100%

(126)

45mi from Bristol · 10 sites · Tents

Get away from the crowds. On 300 beautiful acres once operated as a children's summer adventure camp, this property has a house with a dormitory style bathroom for camper use. There are 3 primitive campsites, 2 cottages, and a horse sanctuary. The campsites are spaced out around the property for privacy. Ask about bathroom use depending on the season. 4WD or AWD is recommended for all sites due to 1/2 mile gravel road and then completely off road for a short distance. Or, if you are bringing 2WD, there is plenty of parking and then walk to your campsite. We don't recommend trying to bring large RV's due to the access. We have not had a problem with Black Bears on the property. Help us keep it that way. Do not store or keep food in your tent. Don't sleep with food. Keep in mind bears are omnivores much like us. They eat mostly plants but also eat meat. For more info on bear safety, visit www.bearwise.org Winter camping is encouraged with free firewood. However, you will probably need to park on the gravel and walk to your campsite to limit soil erosion of the off-road trail. Pets are welcome only at some sites, but please please let us know you are bringing them and they will need to be leashed due to other animals. A large part of the property is forest with hiking trails, creeks, and wildlife. You can see wildflowers and lightning bugs in season along with deer, turkey, and horses. And all of our spots have a great view of the sky! We're not far from the Bare Dark Sky Observatory. The grass horse arena and the pond were originally built for the summer camp. The pond is stocked with bass and bluegill and has a chorus of bullfrogs in summer. The arena is flat and has a long range mountain view all the way to Mt. Mitchell (highest peak east of the Mississippi). There are also a meadow spot encircled by trees.

20. Beech Grove River Spot

97%

(167)

27mi from Bristol · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

In addition to using this land as our camping/fishing get-a-way, it is also used for hay! Our 5th generation farm and home are just a few miles away, where we raise sheep, cattle, goats and chickens. Learn more about this land:Spend the night along the river in a 14 acre field. We have a picnic table, fire pit and grill in place! This site is easily accessible and along a road. The Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail are a few miles away in Damascus, Va, where you can bike, hike, shop or eat. Just a 45 minute drive away is Grayson Highlands, where you can hike and see the wild ponies! Abingdon, VA is 20 minutes away. Hang out around a fire, fish (if you have your fishing license), or just relax by the river! We are excited to share our favorite camping spot. We live just a few miles away on our farm and are happy to help in any way we can. Happy Camping!

Camper favorites near Bristol

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Blue Ridge Camping

100%

(126)

45mi from Bristol · 10 sites · Tents

Get away from the crowds. On 300 beautiful acres once operated as a children's summer adventure camp, this property has a house with a dormitory style bathroom for camper use. There are 3 primitive campsites, 2 cottages, and a horse sanctuary. The campsites are spaced out around the property for privacy. Ask about bathroom use depending on the season. 4WD or AWD is recommended for all sites due to 1/2 mile gravel road and then completely off road for a short distance. Or, if you are bringing 2WD, there is plenty of parking and then walk to your campsite. We don't recommend trying to bring large RV's due to the access. We have not had a problem with Black Bears on the property. Help us keep it that way. Do not store or keep food in your tent. Don't sleep with food. Keep in mind bears are omnivores much like us. They eat mostly plants but also eat meat. For more info on bear safety, visit www.bearwise.org Winter camping is encouraged with free firewood. However, you will probably need to park on the gravel and walk to your campsite to limit soil erosion of the off-road trail. Pets are welcome only at some sites, but please please let us know you are bringing them and they will need to be leashed due to other animals. A large part of the property is forest with hiking trails, creeks, and wildlife. You can see wildflowers and lightning bugs in season along with deer, turkey, and horses. And all of our spots have a great view of the sky! We're not far from the Bare Dark Sky Observatory. The grass horse arena and the pond were originally built for the summer camp. The pond is stocked with bass and bluegill and has a chorus of bullfrogs in summer. The arena is flat and has a long range mountain view all the way to Mt. Mitchell (highest peak east of the Mississippi). There are also a meadow spot encircled by trees.

Beech Grove River Spot

97%

(167)

27mi from Bristol · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

In addition to using this land as our camping/fishing get-a-way, it is also used for hay! Our 5th generation farm and home are just a few miles away, where we raise sheep, cattle, goats and chickens. Learn more about this land:Spend the night along the river in a 14 acre field. We have a picnic table, fire pit and grill in place! This site is easily accessible and along a road. The Appalachian Trail and Virginia Creeper Trail are a few miles away in Damascus, Va, where you can bike, hike, shop or eat. Just a 45 minute drive away is Grayson Highlands, where you can hike and see the wild ponies! Abingdon, VA is 20 minutes away. Hang out around a fire, fish (if you have your fishing license), or just relax by the river! We are excited to share our favorite camping spot. We live just a few miles away on our farm and are happy to help in any way we can. Happy Camping!

Hemlock Hill Hideaway

91%

(11)

41mi from Bristol · 1 site · Lodging

Learn more about this land: Welcome to Hemlock Hill Hideaway - a unique glamping experience while being minutes from Boone city limits!! A perfect place to relax and enjoy the trees! The treehouse is approximately 10'x10'. There is a loft consisting of a brand new foam full-size mattress while facing a clear semi-see-through roof. A futon sits below it. The bathroom consists of a portable toilet and sink in a tent off the treehouse. A shower station sits on the other side of the treehouse. Although there is no plumbing, both have water. (You only need to bring drinking water for yourselves.) There is electricity and WiFi. There is a cooler and an electric kettle available for you to use. Outside of the treehouse, there is a fire pit, a grill, a hammock, and a slide - plenty to do while relaxing in nature! Please bring blankets/sleeping bags and pillows to sleep. (Both the foam mattress and the futon will have freshly laundered sheets.) If you plan to use the grill, please bring your own charcoal. Grilling utensils are provided. Firewood is provided for the fire pit. Although smoking is allowed on the premises, we ask that you do not smoke inside the treehouse. If you decide to smoke, please clean up after yourselves. Checking out is easy! We ask that you throw away your trash & recycles and return the key to the lockbox. We take care of the rest! There is no need to refill the water or take the sheets off of the mattresses. The hideaway is behind our backyard so you may see/hear us from time to time. There may be a cat or a dog running around although we find that they do not go out there as much without us. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask. Thank you!

Wiseman Ridge Boutique RV Park

99%

(51)

44mi from Bristol · 7 sites · RVs

Wiseman Ridge is a boutique micro campground for RVs only, first opened in July of 2022. Our property adjoins the Blue Ridge Parkway in Linville Falls NC with easy access off NC 221. We offer 5 full hook up RV sites with views of Hawksbill, Table Rock and Humpback Mountains. Micro means we have only a handful of sites but that is where micro ends. Each site is expansive, with large areas to spread out and enjoy the views or play yard games. Unlike typical RV parks our sites are spread out on the ridge top and offer great views and lots of space. Our campground offers a unique camping experience for the RV and outdoors enthusiast. All of our RV sites feature views of the surrounding peaks and have full hook ups with, water, septic and 30 or 50 amp power access, high speed wi-fi access at each site as well as a picnic table and in ground fire pits. Wiseman Ridge provides the peace and quiet of nature at its finest, with easy direct access to the Blue Ridge Parkway by foot or by road. We are just a mile down the parkway from the entrance to the Linville Falls parking lot and picnic area, and 2 miles from Kistler Memorial Highway (Old NC 105) that provides access to the western rim of Linville Gorge and multiple trailheads. Our campground is for conventional travel trailers and motorhomes only. We do not have bathroom or bathhouse facilities so we cannot allow campers that do not have a self contained bathroom that can hook up to a conventional RV sewer drain and no human waste is allowed in our trash receptacles. Book direct with us and save - just visit us at wisemanridge dot com

Mystic Pass

98%

(63)

39mi from Bristol · 1 site · Tent, RV

Ultimate privacy. Gorgeous, long range views and incredible sunsets in the Blue Ridge mountains! Located one hour from Asheville, NC and Johnson City, TN. Twenty-five minutes from Burnsville, Bakersville and Spruce Pine. Enjoy the serenity of nature with an unobstructed, ever-changing view of clouds, beautiful mountains and the most incredible sunset in 5 counties! Take a walk along the ridge, with 360-degree long-range mountain views. Many unique art galleries nearby, plus river tubing, hiking, biking, kayaking etc. The South Toe River has put-ins within five minutes drive. Restaurants, breweries and shops within 25 minutes. Campsite includes a large, smokeless Solo Stove fire pit to cozy up to, as the stars fill the evening sky!

The North Star Dome at Compass Rose

96%

(13)

26mi from Bristol · 1 site · Lodging

1302 Greer Branch Rd, Laurel Bloomery, TN 37680 ----Amenities---- - Glamping Dome Tent set in a butterfly preserve at the back of our farm, with breathtaking mountain views! - Queen bed, blankets, 2 pillows - HEAT in the dome via indoor-safe propane heater -air conditioning in the warmer months -Gas griddle -Solar power battery (for charging your devices, powering the lights, etc) -Outhouse -Outdoor shower -Basic kitchen & bath supplies Towels (kitchen & bath) Silverware Paper plates and cups Mugs Tea pot and french press Some cooking utensils and pots/pans Lighters feminine hygiene products Bug spray, bear spray -Outdoor Hot shower! ----NOT CURRENTLY PROVIDED---- -Firewood (available at local dollar store 5 minutes away) -Ice -BYOB ----RULES AND THINGS TO BE AWARE OF---- This is a smoke free facility. NO SMOKING indoors or outdoors!!! -This glamping site is unfortunately NOT adequate for handicap accessibility, as it is on a slope with steps and some uneven ground. It is also not suitable for long vehicles, such as towing big trailers, or RVs/campers. Single cars, trucks, vans or SUVs only, at a 2 vehicle maximum, please. -No disruptive behavior, such as loud music, big parties, heavy drinking, or use of substances. This is a quiet, rustic retreat on a family farm designed to reconnect with nature and find peace. -No littering -Do not feed the wildlife OR the farm animals (except if participating in provided petting zoo) -Never let pets off leash. Tie out is provided near the dome. ----Activities---- - On the farm: Nature trails, animal feeding experience, telescope rental, canoe rental (for lake 40 minutes away). Seasonal produce picking. -Nearby: Gentry Creek Falls, Wataugua Lake, Damascus VA and the Creeper Trail, Doe Mountain Recreation, Skydiving, Fishing & hunting, horseback riding, local eateries and coffee shops....the list goes on! You may wish to interact with our farm menagerie during your stay. We have supplied a self-service animal feed dispenser by the "barnyard" sign, just beside our tiny house. Feel free to come down between 9AM-8PM to give chickens, geese, ducks, and possibly the goats some treats. NO PETS ALLOWED TO BE WITH YOU WHEN YOU FEED THE ANIMALS, please! Feed is available by donation. Note: Only feed the provided treats, do not feed anything else! Please do not exceed two refills per person! Be aware that animals can bite, kick, scratch, bonk, and poo. You are your own responsibility when interacting with the animals! ----CHECK-IN INSTRUCTIONS---- -Drive up to our farm gate and TAKE THE GUEST FOLDER from the box, clearly marked. Don't mind the barking of our big white livestock guardian dogs from within the nearby pastures, they are just doing their job. Open the gate and CLOSE IT behind you, please :) -Follow driveway up to the top of the hill. Please do not allow any pets out of your vehicle down at our farmyard. Be careful as you pass through this area as we do have children and livestock possibly crossing the road. -Park wherever you feel your vehicle can best manage the sloped driveway. -Open the dome's zipper door and let it air out. Follow the guest folder's instructions for further climate control needs. There will be most of the information you need in the guest folder, as well as in pamphlets and notes around the site. You can also contact us at any time, but the WIFI is sometimes spotty, so it may be necessary to come knock on our door for additional inquiries. (Don't be shy! While we will not invade your privacy, we always enjoy meeting our guests, and will gladly help any way we can). Thank you for checking us out, and we hope to have the joy of being your hosts soon!

OnTop.camp - NW NC Ashe Co

99%

(820)

46mi from Bristol · 5 sites · Tents

STATUS of OT DOT CAMP 5.29.25 Welcome! Fireflies are now popping and the locust blossoms, wild rose and blackberries have just finished up. Milk weed and butterfly attractants will bloom in the coming month on sunrise mountain and it’s looking good! Our farm is vast and sparse, focusing on sustainability while giving back to the community. We are a safe haven for animals and humans alike. Situated on and between two peaks of Little Phoenix Mountain range in Jefferson Ashe County. Our sites’ altitudes range from 3100 feet to over 3600 feet, which is a lot of slope and hillside to say the least. As a guest you will be offered insane long views and limited exposure to the oldest registered breed of bovine in the world. Our Scottish Highland Cattle are majestic and fit in quite well in the NC mountainside. Located in the Blue Ridge mountains, we have natural water springs popping out, some of which are tapped to drink from. (10.1.23 currently farm springs are not accessible to guests, shatley springs up the road approx 4miles north has a public spring that we highly recommend) If you are looking for a camping spot that is only 5-10 minutes from town (Jefferson NC or the quaint Downtown West Jefferson) but feels like you're in the middle of no where, then we have it! The Blue Ridge Parkway is less than 20 minutes away and the New River equally close. Looking Forward: July update. We are currently working on provided an all downhill mountain bike trail from 3600 to 3150ft. This path will be double wide for the most part and wide open at first to soak in the se view. Will update when completed! *a ride back up for your bike and yourself will be scheduled if requested OnTopOfTheWorld.camp *firewood is available if you pay on site you will have to use Venmo/Paypal *We do not allow any harvesting of campfire wood or burning of our property outside of the designated fire ring. We use any downed wood on our property for our family to keep warm and to cut and split ourselves to sell to our guest. A “full nights worth” of campfire wood is roughly a 3 x 2 stacked pile of wood keeping you warm all night. Please let us know ahead so we can prepare it for you

Camp Faith

100%

(69)

22mi from Bristol · 23 sites · Tents, Lodging

Camp Faith is a new Faith-based campground located in Northeast Tennessee, in a small town called Butler. There are 81 acres to explore during your stay. So far, there are 5 primitive cabins as well as a 2 bedroom 1-1/2 bath cottage. We plan on building more as the campground grows. There will be 11 rv sites with full hook-ups very soon. There are several primitive tent sites thru out, most of which are creek side. Only 5 minutes from Sugar Hollow Retreat. Amenities include: Outdoor- Axe throwing, disc golf, tetherball, horseshoes, cornhole, darts, ring & hook games, board games, firepits (firewood included), walking trails, kayaks, and more... Bathhouse- Full-size bathrooms, fully stocked common kitchen, indoor/outdoor seating, coin operated laundry, ping pong, board games, stocked bookshelf, tv's w/dvd's, free ice (ice machine on bathhouse deck), event-sized grill, pizza oven, gas fireplace, and more... Free Starlink high speed internet

Public campgrounds near Bristol

100%

(1)

Little Oak Campground

9.1mi from Bristol · 42 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cherokee National Forest

Jacobs Creek Recreation Area

12mi from Bristol · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cherokee National Forest

100%

(1)

Warriors’ Path Campground

15mi from Bristol · 134 sites · Tents, RVs · in Warriors’ Path State Park

The view from Wautuga Dam, looking towards Carden Bluff Campground.

100%

(2)

Cardens Bluff Campground

18mi from Bristol · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cherokee National Forest

Dennis Cove Campground

22mi from Bristol · 1 site · in Cherokee National Forest

100%

(2)

Backbone Rock Campground

22mi from Bristol · 1 site · in Cherokee National Forest

Bark Camp Recreation Area

27mi from Bristol · 34 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

Hiking down Roan mountain on foggy morning.

97%

(15)

Roan Mountain Campground

28mi from Bristol · 141 sites · Tents, RVs · in Roan Mountain State Park

Rock Creek Recreation Area and Campground

30mi from Bristol · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cherokee National Forest

100%

(2)

Natural Tunnel Campground

31mi from Bristol · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Natural Tunnel State Park

100%

(2)

Beartree Campground

31mi from Bristol · 38 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

High Knob Recreation Area

32mi from Bristol · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

S

Siddarth

1 week ago

16 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Farmhouse Gallery & Gardens

Delightful stay. The property is incredible the hosts even more so!

D

Devyn

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to OnTop.camp - NW NC Ashe Co

Beautiful property. Host was excellent at giving directions to the site. We will be back next year for sure!

C

Connor

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Gusher Knob

We loved our stay! William has a beautiful campsite and beautiful property that he let us explore. We saw wild deer, wild geese, and signs of some bobcats, even got to hear a pack of coyotes each night! We felt incredibly safe and it was a very private area. We met one of the neighbors when unloading our gear who was incredibly helpful and nice, and everyone we drove by waved as well so it was a nice welcoming stay which was one of our concerns when coming from 6 hours away. Our car was safe the entire time and no signs of anyone messing with anything around it which is a huge plus! The sunrise and sunset are beautiful, especially with a mountain backdrop, and the drive up there was also nice. We stopped at one of the overlooks about 20-30 minutes away from the site and just took in the scenery. The hike has some pretty steep parts. We made 4 full trips with gear, food, and wood. I feel like some of the other reviews don’t touch on it as much, but with just two of us it absolutely wore us out. I believe we took 4 breaks along the trail (even though it’s a fairly short hike) just because of the elevation and how steep it was in some parts. While we are both 5-6 days a week in the gym, carrying everything was still a challenge that we will not forget. Very thankful there were two of us. William let us explore the side trails but remember to still ask for permission for yourself as this is still someone else’s property and should be treated as such. Thank you again William!!

Matthew

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

With kids

Weekend Trip to Farmhouse Gallery & Gardens

We stayed at site 6. Before we booked they showed us the property so we could decide where we wanted to stay. They were very hospitable and it was a nice quiet stay. Will definitely stay again!!

A sturdy and large platform for your tent or sleeping setup.

J

Jason

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Gusher Knob

Nice and secluded. Evening sky looking over the mountains was beautiful. Be prepared for a couple small hills on the trail in but well worth it.

B

Brittany

3 weeks ago

1 night at Farmhouse Gallery & Gardens

The Artist Studio was the perfect spot to stay on a solo road trip from Eastern Virginia to Nashville. The property was stunning and the studio was clean & cozy. Outstanding location 10 min from downtown Johnson City. The host, Pat, left delicious baked goods in the fridge of the studio. My highlight of the stay was enjoying a fresh baked good & coffee in the sun room overlooking the pond. Highly recommend!

C

Charlotte

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Gusher Knob

We had the best time camping at Hummingbird Overlook! The view was absolutely beautiful and the host, William, was very helpful and responded very quickly to any questions we had.

A

Amy

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Blue Ridge Camping

The site has beautiful views. It is private even though the house is right up the hill you can’t see it over a berm. It was a bonus to have access to a bathroom toilet and hot shower. It is a bit of steep walk up to it but still nice to have. We saw deer and heard owls. Would definitely go again. Thank you Rebecca!

C

Camden

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Loafers Joy Meadow

We loved our stay here. We plan on making this trip a tradition we enjoyed it so much! Great hosts and a wonderful view.

Stephanie

November 2025

Tent

1 night at OnTop.camp - NW NC Ashe Co

Very pretty and quiet spot! Instructions were very clear and jon was very responsive made everything quick and easy. I will definitely be coming back for another stay here.

Bruna

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to OnTop.camp - NW NC Ashe Co

Great place for camping, peaceful and with a great view of the mountains.

Stephanie

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mystic Pass

We loved the site! Absolutely stunning sunset and it was quite easy access. I would 100% stay here again!

C

Chase

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Blue Ridge Camping

Rebecca was wonderful, and the space was convenient and cool. The pond spot was very nice.

Tyler

November 2025

14 ft toy hauler

With pets

Weekend Trip to Farmhouse Gallery & Gardens

Great spot easy to get to off the highway but quiet once you get there. Artsy outbuildings, goats, buffalo and peacocks on the property which was super cool. Beautiful views of the mountains and nice secluded spots to camp, flush toilets and running water just a little walk away. . A+, would visit again!!

L

Liz

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Plumtree Campground Tents & Cabins

Wonderful location and great views. Super clean bathhouse and very accommodating hosts. Definitely would visit againb

J

John

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to OnTop.camp - NW NC Ashe Co

Beautiful views, quiet, and a really relaxing place to stay. I enjoyed the privacy and the open space, and the sunrise and sunset were both worth the trip. Had a great time overall and would definitely stay again.

T

Thadeus

November 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Mountain Haven

Great experience camping at the hidden haven! Loved getting to use the fire pit they provided too 🙂

C

Caleb

November 2025

16 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Loafers Joy Meadow

Easy to get to and great views! Fire and porta potty are great.

N

Nathan

November 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Mountain Haven

Site was clean and had great camping amenities. Had a picnic table, a camp fire pit and lots of pretty decorations

M

Madelyn

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to OnTop.camp - NW NC Ashe Co

The view was absolutely amazing, and I highly recommend site 5!!!! We had a great time. We pre ordered fire wood at the end of our purchase to add on to our stay, Jon ended up bringing it a day later than expected. It was figured out and was all good, but other than that our trip was great.