The best cave campgrounds near Johnson City, Tennessee

Looking to explore the great outdoors near Johnson City, Tennessee? With over 147 camping options specifically tailored to cave enthusiasts, Hipcamp has got you covered. Whether you're spelunking or just looking to immerse yourself in the unique terrain, you'll find plenty of options to suit your needs. Check out top campsites like Dark Ridge Hide Out (422 reviews), The River Life (138 reviews), and The Waldhaus Resort (103 reviews) for a truly memorable experience. Plus, enjoy popular amenities like cooking equipment, campfires, and toilets, and indulge in activities such as hiking, biking, and climbing. With an average price per night of $35 and options as low as $20, you can embark on your cave adventure without breaking the bank.

98% (339)

Top-rated campgrounds near Johnson City

Looking to explore the great outdoors near Johnson City, Tennessee? With over 147 camping options specifically tailored to cave enthusiasts, Hipcamp has got you covered. Whether you're spelunking or just looking to immerse yourself in the unique terrain, you'll find plenty of options to suit your needs. Check out top campsites like Dark Ridge Hide Out (422 reviews), The River Life (138 reviews), and The Waldhaus Resort (103 reviews) for a truly memorable experience. Plus, enjoy popular amenities like cooking equipment, campfires, and toilets, and indulge in activities such as hiking, biking, and climbing. With an average price per night of $35 and options as low as $20, you can embark on your cave adventure without breaking the bank.

98% (339)

Top-rated campgrounds near Johnson City

1. Raven Ridge

99%

(269)

43mi from Johnson City · 2 sites · Lodging

Raven ridge is a 5.0 acre property with plenty of botanical appeal, Appalachian charm and mountain views. James landed on the property in 2009, built a small dairy barn and milked 3 cows for a couple years before building the two cabins. In 2015 he was joined by Sofi, originally from Sweden and together they have three daughters. Together they manage a botanically interesting hobby hill farm and are happy to host travelers and seekers in their cabins. Hilltop was a joint project that James built in 2012 with a talented woodworker and friend in 6 months. We have maintained the original vibe of the place, rustic simplicity and elegance a notch or two above glamping, well-described by the zen koan, "chop wood, carry water" Orchard House was built entirely by James from the block up to the roof, averaging 1 hour/day for 3 years or 1,000 hours. Some of the Hilltop photos are a bit dated, we have a more private outhouse behind the cabin, and have made a few improvements here and there. Reach out anytime for any reason. We love hosting and nearly everyone enjoys their stay.

2. Kennedy Historic Appalachian Farm

98%

(25)

45mi from Johnson City · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

This camping experience takes place on a 200+ year old farm. We currently offer multiple camping options, most of which are only accessible by either all-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive vehicles.  The first location (along the main road) is solely for RVs or travel trailers (TT). The other camping locations are for tent camping, and much smaller/narrower and rugged RV/TT with a 4-wheel drive towing vehicle. Daniel and Cherith Kennedy purchased this 164-acre farm in 2014, and Daniel's parents, Brent Rita Kennedy, purchased the 1800's era farmhouse from Daniel and Cherith a couple years later. Together, we have transformed this farm back into a working farm with hay fields, cattle, donkeys, goats, sheep, chickens and any other critters we buy or rescue. We are currently rehabilitating the 1700's era one room schoolhouse at the front corner of our land as well. This farm is full of memories, hard work, and is absolutely stunning. Your hosts on-site are Brent and Rita Kennedy, and they are famous for spoiling our guests rotten. They can give you tours of the farm, some in-season eggs and veggies as they have available, and even throw in some petting opportunities. They love having visitors and are sure to make your trip memorable. If you're interested in using our farm as a launching camp to see all the wonderful places that SW Virginia has to offer, we are very well located to many sites within an hour drive. - Pinnacle Area Reserve (https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/natural-heritage/natural-area-preserves/pinnacle) - Barren Fall/Tank Hollow Falls of Cleveland(https://www.virginia.org/listing/tank-hollow-falls-of-cleveland/7223/) - The Channels (https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/natural-heritage/natural-area-preserves/thechannels) - Virginia Creeper Trail (https://www.vacreepertrail.org/) - Explore Damascus (https://www.damascus.org/) - Explore St. Paul (https://www.stpaulva.org/community/page/playing-st-paul) and stop by our favorite, Mamaw's Cafe. Let her know we sent you!!! - Explore Abingdon (https://visitabingdonvirginia.com/). - Scenic Driving...seriously, this region has some amazing scenic roads that are off the beaten path and will WOW you. Ask our hosts for their suggestions and they'll point you in the right directions after gauging your interests.

3. Rose Creek Retreat

96%

(127)

48mi from Johnson City · 3 sites · RVs

In 2018 we purchased this property to enjoy a little freedom, privacy and relaxation. We have slowly been updating the property over the years and in the end of 2019 we decided to create the site and share it with everyone. After beginning to camp ourselves, a year later. we realized that so many campgrounds resembled the HOA like atmosphere our guests want to escape. We then decided to start our own and we hope you enjoy it!

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. 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

6. Grandfather Mountain State Park

100%

(7)

1 site · Seven Devils, North Carolina

This park has sweeping views, challenging trails, and a mile-high swinging bridge.

Pets

Campfires

Potable water

7. Pisgah National Forest

97%

(156)

251 sites · Burnsville, North Carolina

One of Pisgah's gems is Richland Balsam, the highest peak on the Blue Ridge Parkway at 6,410 feet.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

8. Mount Mitchell State Park

95%

(11)

9 sites · Montreat, North Carolina

Sweeping views and challenging hikes define North Carolina’s first state park.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

Public campgrounds near Johnson City

Rock Creek Recreation Area and Campground

14mi from Johnson City · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cherokee National Forest

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

100%

(2)

Cardens Bluff Campground

15mi from Johnson City · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cherokee National Forest

Dennis Cove Campground

16mi from Johnson City · 1 site · in Cherokee National Forest

100%

(1)

Little Oak Campground

22mi from Johnson City · 42 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cherokee National Forest

Horse Creek, which runs through the area, offers a nice, soothing background.

Horse Creek Recreation Area

22mi from Johnson City · 15 sites · in Cherokee National Forest

100%

(3)

Old Forge Recreation Area

24mi from Johnson City · 10 sites · in Cherokee National Forest

Jacobs Creek Recreation Area

26mi from Johnson City · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cherokee National Forest

100%

(2)

Natural Tunnel Campground

32mi from Johnson City · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Natural Tunnel State Park

100%

(7)

Grandfather Mountain Campground

36mi from Johnson City · 1 site · in Grandfather Mountain State Park

100%

(2)

Backbone Rock Campground

36mi from Johnson City · 1 site · in Cherokee National Forest

100%

(2)

Paint Creek Campground

36mi from Johnson City · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cherokee National Forest

Paint Creek Corridor

38mi from Johnson City · 1 site · in Cherokee National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

S

Stephanie

November 2025

32 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Rose Creek Retreat

Rose Creek was a great spot on the creek, which included the perfect balance of seclusion and civilization. It was a great spot for my toddler and two dogs to explore. Thomas was a great host and had little odds and ends to make the trip easier, including a heated hose as temps dipped into the teens at night. Would definitely recommend and plan to come back!

C

Catherine

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Raven Ridge

Talk about a slice of heaven! James was so accommodating and gave great directions and fast communication. The cabin is so magical, clean, and has the best books! Would recommend for anyone looking to unwind or find creative inspiration. We only got to stay one magical night but will be back for a long weekend retreat! Also birding paradise

K

Kristine

November 2025

24 ft Class B

With pets

6 nights at Rose Creek Retreat

Felt very secluded and private. Gorgeous wooded area surrounding the campsite. Everything I needed and close proximity to a lot of amazing hikes!

D

Dee

October 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Rose Creek Retreat

What a wonderful place to unplug and relax! We had just enough internet to stay in touch and be online when we needed to but it also helped us read and relax more. Plenty of space to let our dog off leash. We’ve never done that before. Thankful though she was inside the camper the morning I saw a beautiful fox come trotting down the road. Be aware there are pickups etc. traveling this road in the daytime but it was very quiet and silent at night. Thomas was an exceptional host and has thought of everything. So nice to have firewood (good wood too) at the ready. We’re already talking about when to return.

Looking east toward the blue ridge parkway and Mt Mitchell

S

Shea

October 2025

3 nights at Raven Ridge

Ravens Ridge was a beautiful getaway. With rustic charms and spectacular views.... Even from bed! Cantral to places to explore. Went to Bryson City for the train ride through the mountains. Gatlinburg is so close as well to find fun to get into. Definitely be prepared for the walk up to the cabin but it was a beautiful and well needed retreat.

A

Approved

October 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rose Creek Retreat

This was an absolute paradise for our anniversary. Remote, quiet and peaceful. The water and sewer hookups were a huge plus! Our 2 dogs thought they had discovered heaven, and the trickle of the water sang us to sleep each night. Just hoping we didn’t get spoiled on one of our first adventures. Never seen anything like this place. We will definitely be back! A special thanks to Thomas, who kept us excited about the trip and set our expectations completely.

J

Julien

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Raven Ridge

The cabin was delightful and the property was beautiful. Pretty easy to find if you follow the directions. Very close to plenty to do in downtown Marshall. We had a good time making breakfast with the wood fired stove!

S

Stacy

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Raven Ridge

A beautiful and peaceful cabin. Wake up in the clouds and enjoy the silence.

Hanna

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Raven Ridge

Beautiful property. The cabin was so unique and comfortable. I especially enjoyed sitting out on the deck and watching the birds flutter about. Thanks for your hospitality!

M

Michelle

September 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rose Creek Retreat

Very nice, spacious spot. Thomas was responsive and helpful. People in the community were very friendly. We enjoyed our trip and would definitely return.

J

Joann

September 2025

28 ft travel trailer

With pets

5 nights at Rose Creek Retreat

The view of chimney rock was spectacular not too mention the deer that I saw. I would definitely recommend this place.

B

Brian

September 2025

27 ft fifth wheel

With pets

3 nights at Rose Creek Retreat

We loved camping at Rose Creek Retreat. It was my wife and I and our dog Bella. It is a very peaceful spot with the sounds of the creek in the background. Bella loved playing in the creek. The camping area is shaded which was nice since it was warm when we were there. The spot is level and all of the hookups are easily accessible. The site is about 30 minutes from Linville Gorge which has some great hiking and views. We will definitely be back in the future.

C

Cyndi

September 2025

17 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Rose Creek Retreat

We had a great time camping at Rose Creek Retreat. Quiet spot with full hookups next to a babbling creek with plenty of room to spread out. We had fun exploring and relaxing in the creek. Our dog enjoyed being off leash and chasing her ball. The wifi worked great - were able to watch college football all weekend. We enjoyed cooking our meals over the fire and making s’mores. Thomas was a great host and responded promptly when I had a question. We loved this camping spot and would definitely come back again.

J

Joann

August 2025

31 ft travel trailer

With pets

6 nights at Rose Creek Retreat

The view was beautiful. While I was there saw 2 deer. Could see chimney rock which was beautiful

T

Tanner

August 2025

2 nights at Raven Ridge

I truly enjoyed staying in James’ Hilltop Cabin. The cabin itself was cozy and charming. There is another cabin close by but it still felt private. The land that the cabin is on has some great trails with beautiful views. James was incredibly responsive and helpful and accommodated me on short notice. I definitely plan on staying again next time I’m in the area! 10/10

T

Tanner

August 2025

34 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rose Creek Retreat

This spot was the perfect retreat for my family. The location was secluded, allowing my kids and dogs to run around freely, and neither one hesitated in jumping in the creek. I did not have any issue getting my 34 ft travel trailer into or out of the spot in a 2wd truck. There are plenty of activities to do in the area with kids ( 5,3,1). However, if looking up the Hawksbill trail. Despite the Google review, toddlers can do just include a few meltdowns along the way. Overall, it's a great site and I would highly recommend this location over a large campground.

T

Travis

August 2025

21 ft travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Rose Creek Retreat

Our second time back, all utilities worked perfectly. Quiet, lots of privacy, great for our dog to run around with no restrictions. Great section of creek to relax in, close to all things fun in the Gorge/Morganton/Linville Falls. WIll be back, thanks Thomas

T

Tressa G.

July 2025

18 ft toy hauler

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rose Creek Retreat

HIGHLY RECOMMEND! We have been looking for our”go to” place for a while and this is it! Single site, nice creek, perfect shade, full hookups, plenty of space for dogs/kids to play, great fire pit with tools for cooking and not too far from Morganton if you want to go out for dinner. Thomas was a great host as well. WIFI was a little bit weak at times, but we never reached out to Thomas about it so not sure if that could have been resolved. Everything else was so wonderful that it didn’t really matter.

T

Theresa

July 2025

40 ft travel trailer

With pets

6 nights at Rose Creek Retreat

This was our 3rd time staying at Rose Creek Retreat...Great host and the peacefulness of the creek and wildlife in the early morning is like no other. Totally recommend.