Private Camping in Norris Lake, Tennessee: Best Norris Lake Private Campsites 2026

A 34,000-acre reservoir on the Powell and Clinch rivers, Norris Lake is 30 miles northwest of Knoxville. Campgrounds and marinas surround the lake, so access to watersports and fantastic bass fishing is a breeze for campers, while surrounding state parks spotlight East Tennessee’s mountain-and-river terrain and its Appalachian culture. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) developed several of these state parks during the Great Depression, and CCC-built facilities are still in use today. Glamping options include farm sites, canvas tents, and tiny homes—and birdwatching and hiking are popular no matter where you stay nearby.

95% (41) • 91 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Norris Lake

A 34,000-acre reservoir on the Powell and Clinch rivers, Norris Lake is 30 miles northwest of Knoxville. Campgrounds and marinas surround the lake, so access to watersports and fantastic bass fishing is a breeze for campers, while surrounding state parks spotlight East Tennessee’s mountain-and-river terrain and its Appalachian culture. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) developed several of these state parks during the Great Depression, and CCC-built facilities are still in use today. Glamping options include farm sites, canvas tents, and tiny homes—and birdwatching and hiking are popular no matter where you stay nearby.

95% (41) • 91 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Norris Lake

1. Twin Valley Horse Ranch

98%

(133)

5 sites · Lodging · Walland, TN

My late husband and myself bought the property in 1983 and it was all just overgrown land!We worked, cleared, built horse shelters/barns, cabins, cut trails, built the outdoor chapel for our wedding and of course fenced it all in for the horses! Started sharing with guests in 1993, so we have met so many amazing folks from all over the world!  Pass thru our gate into another world and leave all your worries and tensions behind. We are all about getting back to what is real -- nature, animals/horses and each other. Complete privacy!There are many mountain trails leaving right from our property! Lots to explore. You can even hike to the outdoor chapel with the pretty view of the Chilhowee Mountain range.  It is a short hike to the barn area for those who want to spend time rubbing the pot belly pigs' tummy, walk the mini horses, groom the love bug~Junebug (donkey), pet horses, cuddle with bunnies and feed chickens!  Every morning and night we set a time for all those who want to become involved with the care/feeding of petting animals and horses! 

2. The Legacy At BeeRidges Farm

100%

(38)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Powell, TN

Escape to 25 Acres of Scenic Serenity on Our Family Farm Welcome to our family-run farm nestled in the rolling hills of East Tennessee! Set on 25 peaceful acres with panoramic views, wooded hiking trails, and open skies, our land is a true hidden gem. Whether you're looking for a quiet weekend retreat or a unique farmstay experience, we’ve got you covered. This is a working farm with friendly animals including goats, chickens, ducks, geese, and heritage turkeys. Wake up to birdsong, watch the animals roam, and enjoy the slower rhythm of life. Our trails wind through the hills, offering peaceful hikes and beautiful overlooks—perfect for morning coffee or sunset views. Bring your tent, and yourself. Whether you want to relax in nature, stargaze under wide open skies, or get hands-on with farm life, this is the perfect place to unplug and unwind. Highlights: 25 private acres with room to roam Peaceful, rural setting only 30 minutes from Downtown Knoxville! Farm-fresh eggs available seasonally Hiking trails, wooded areas, and scenic overlooks Friendly animals and optional farm experiences Come stay with us and experience the charm, simplicity, and beauty of farm life. We can’t wait to welcome you!

3. Floras Retreats (29 Sites)

97%

(44)

28 sites · Tents, Lodging · Jonesville, VA

About this space Enjoy amped up camping at this at this posh mountain escape! Here you can reconnect with nature outdoors while luxury furnishings and full amenities provide all the comforts of home inside a spacious, pet-friendly camper. Add in an epic outdoor entertaining area featuring a theater with 120” screen, hot tub, griddle, firepit, and deck and you have the ultimate camping adventure. Bonus – the site is located on 25 acres in the VA mountains with views of KY and TN! The space This pet-friendly, luxury camping experience is ideal for everything from weekend getaways to extended mountain sojourns. The camper’s interior is packed with all the necessities required for a comfortable stay: a full kitchen with Keurig coffee machine, hot and cold-water sink, microwave, refrigerator, stove, oven; large dining booth; comfy seating area; full bathroom with shower tub combo; 2 private bedrooms; A/C, heat; a flat screen Smart TV with streaming capabilities; and expansive windows that fill the interior with natural light. Outdoors is the ultimate entertainer’s paradise. Relax in the hot tub and enjoy theatre under the stars on the 120” elevated screen that can be seen from the entire site. Start mornings off with coffee and the smell of bacon sizzling on the outdoor griddle and end the days with a cold one from the kegerator. Every guest receives all the fixings needed for S’mores to roast on the firepit, and complimentary wood is provided that can also be used to cook up delicious meals on the classic campsite grill. With views for miles, wildlife sightings, and proximity to major area attractions, a stay here is without a doubt the best way to effortlessly experience the exciting world of “camping with benefits”! IMPORTANT: Once You have booked a reservation with us, immediately call our our receptionist Tammi at 812.381.4355 because our system does not integrate with our property management software. This is especially important if you are booking last minute or late in the evening. We may not get your reservation until the next morning and you will be locked out of the space. So immediately after booking a reservation, call Tammi so we can ensure it is accessible.

4. Panther Creek Hideaway

96%

(56)

3 sites · Tents · Sevierville, TN

Learn more about this land:Enjoy the quiet at our 35 acre cozy secluded hideaway with a pond. Surrounded by a mature wooded forrest and rolling hills with multiple locations at each sites to pitch a tent.. Close to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg attractions. Note: Pappas Peak is a secluded hilltop and will not accommodate trailers due to the turning radius on the hilltop.

5. Vee Hollow Campground

100%

(5)

73 sites · RVs, Lodging · Townsend, TN

Welcome to Vee Hollow Campground in Townsend, TN Located in Townsend, Tennessee, Vee Hollow Campground is nestled in the beautiful Smoky Mountains. Our 3.5 acre campground offers 72 RV camp sites, including full hook ups and amenities such as 14 miles of mountain bike trails, river access, and pool to name a few. We’re convenient to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Highway 129 (The Dragon). We’re also pet friendly! Whether you’re looking for adventure by mountain biking and hiking, or if you just looking to relax by the water, Vee Hollow Campground offers the comfort, beauty, and convenience you’re looking for.

6. Powell River Camp & Retreat

100%

(8)

7 sites · Tents · Harrogate, TN

Riverside Camping on the Powell River in Northeast Tennessee, near the Cumberland Gap where TN, KY, and VA meet. Our campsites sit along the Powell River, offering a peaceful retreat in the early stages of development. We are dedicated to restoring and enhancing the land through ongoing projects such as clearing overgrowth, planting native species, and practicing responsible riverfront stewardship. You may see us working on-site—feel free to say hi! We offer 6 individual campsites with access to a shared riverfront. Private Booking: If you are interested in reserving the entire property for a private experience or group-camp, please contact us for availability. Toilets: There is a composting outhouse near the barn - guests have shared access. Water: There is no potable water on-site. We recommend bringing your own. Pets: Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome. Please clean up after them. Alcohol: Adults of legal drinking age may consume alcohol responsibly. No glass bottles are permitted. Firewood: Available for as add on/extra when booking. Location: The property is approximately five minutes from Pump Springs on Powell River Road. Parking: The gravel driveway leads into to a grass field with a designated parking area. Gate: Our entrance has a well-loved farm gate, and we are working on building a new one. Please close the gate behind you upon entering to help maintain privacy during your stay. Footwear: While the riverfront is glass-free, we recommend wearing river shoes or sandals for safety. Lifejackets are not required, please swim and float at your own risk. Fishing is permitted; however, proper licensure is required. For the safety of all guests, fishing is not allowed in the beachfront area where guests swim and walk. Please walk upstream or downstream before casting. Looking to add some excitement to your stay? Hiking, tubing, and shuttle services are available through Cumberland Gap Adventure Company. Message us if you're interested in turning your camping trip into an unforgettable outdoor experience!

7. Mountainfire!

100%

(35)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · London, KY

This area is an old tobacco and cattle farm on a point above Laurel Lake. We do a bit of farming and crafting when we can and thought we’d try and share our lovely spot! Much of the timber on the place is nearly 100 years old hardwoods, with a couple of fields throughout. I camp here myself too, and can recommend it for privacy! Learn more about this land: You can park an RV or trailer on these private sites within a 10min drive or short walk to Laurel Lake! Gravel roads to a field capable of holding up to two trailers with more planned in time! Primitive sites, Quiet n private. These sites are also within 10 mi of both London and Corbin Ky, with services available at both. Scenic Cumberland Falls is a short 25 min drive, and this place is adjacent to the Daniel Boone National Forest with plenty of hiking nearby.

8. Secluded Black Fox Camping/Camper

99%

(53)

3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Luttrell, TN

Firewood is provided at no additional charge. We are gladly sharing our 25 acres of land with two campsites and one vintage camper for others to enjoy. There are two remote camping areas with plenty of space between them for privacy. They both have access to a cleared field with plenty of space to relax and unwind. This is a beautiful place for stargazing away from the city lights. Wildlife sightings may include deer, turkey and a wide variety of birds. We welcome families; kids 15 yrs and under are free. Two composting toilets are available for your use, each located in a simple, enclosed structure and stocked with all the basic essentials for a comfortable experience.

9. GlampVentures | river + hike +kayak

100%

(57)

5 sites · Lodging · White Pine, TN

🌄🌿 Your Ultimate Mountain Escape Awaits! 🚣‍♀️🐟🥾 Welcome to our secluded slice of mountain paradise, tucked away at the end of the road on the breathtaking Nolichucky River, right near the majestic Smoky Mountains. 🏞️✨ 🏕️ Your Adventure Haven: Choose from four unique off-grid accommodations, each thoughtfully furnished for your comfort and relaxation during your next thrilling escapade! All built by us with the help of family and using lumber milled by us from our property.🌳🏕️ 🚣‍♀️ Set your sights on an abundance of on-site activities, including kayaking, fishing, hiking, and bird/wildlife watching. Nature's playground awaits you right at your doorstep! 🛶🎣🚶‍♀️ 🌟 Unleash Your Inner Explorer: Venture beyond our property to a world of wonder! Experience the thrill of a Drive Thru Safari Park, enjoy tastings at a charming vineyard, embark on an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip, get lost in the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains or never leave the property and unplug!! 🐆🍷🚣‍♂️🏔️ 🎢 Adventure Around Every Corner: The excitement doesn't end there! Discover the magic of Dollywood, explore nearby State Parks, and uncover even more hidden gems in the vicinity. 🎡🌳 Your mountain getaway dreams are about to come true! Book now and let the adventure begin! 🌄🏕️

10. The Meadows at Poplar Creek

100%

(5)

7 sites · Tents, RVs · Oliver Springs, TN

This tranquil acreage is situated next to the popular Creek, offering a peaceful retreat while being conveniently close to Windrock Off-Road Park. The property provides a perfect blend of seclusion and accessibility, making it an ideal location for those looking to enjoy both nature and outdoor adventures. Please note, however, that the access roads are not suitable for large motor homes, ensuring an undisturbed and intimate environment.

11. Love Our Soil Farms- on the River

100%

(8)

5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Sneedville, TN

Love Our Soil Farms is a developing, small regenerative farm that is the cornerstone of our family’s journey to living a more compassionate, peaceful, and sustainable life. Our independent family farm is a place—both physical and in spirit—that we hope to share with others. It is our passion project, driven by a desire to leave our earth better than we found it and create a healthier, more sustainable future for our children. We would love for you to join us here at Love Our Soil Farms on the beautiful Clinch River. It’s the perfect place for a getaway, whether you make it a day trip or come visit for an overnight stay. You can relax and unplug in your own cozy and comfortable space while surrounded by the majestic Appalachian mountains inhabited by an abundance of wildlife. Whichever stay, location, or event you choose, you will be only steps away from the river where you can swim, kayak or fish. You will be nestled up against our growing homestead, including our farm animals (we offer tours). We offer Farm-to-Table meals for all our guests and we love accommodating large groups with our different sites and are happy to help plan youre group event. Glamping Glamping in one of our three amazing luxury tents – located right on the river, the creek or tucked away in the mountains – is the ultimate in camping meets comfort. All three locations are nestled up against our farm and have full access to the river and gathering spots. Tents have their own private restroom with double compost toilets and an off grid hot shower heated by propane. Barnyard Staying overnight in our barnyard camper gives you the complete farm life experience. You will be staying right in the middle of our farm—between our barn and our milking parlor—surrounded by chickens, turkeys, and guinea hens! Inside your camper, you will have running water, a restroom, and a small kitchen. If you’re curious about life on a family farm or just want to get some good quality time in with farm animals, this is the place to stay. Boondocking Your own RV is welcome to park riverside, we currently do not have hookups so you will be dry camping. You are also welcome to use our fire pit and restrooms if they are available, as guests staying in our glamping tents will have the option to reserve them. The restrooms have double compost toilets and an off grid hot shower heated by propane. You can check with us prior to making your reservation to see if other guests have already reserved these amenities for their stay. Camping Classic tent camping is a blast here! You can bring your own tent or rent one from us. This is the ultimate experience for living off the land and reconnecting with nature. You will have your own fire pit, and you will be surrounded by an abundance of wildlife. When you stay overnight with us here on the farm you become part of our family. We want to make sure that you not only unwind but also get to take advantage of all the amazing things this beautiful homestead has to offer. You will have direct access to the river for kayaking, tubing, fishing, swimming, hiking, or just sitting along the bank enjoying the fresh air. Our family’s favorite activity is gathering by the fire pit at night, listening to the river, and gazing at the stars, which shine brighter here than anywhere we’ve ever been. We would love to share everything this peaceful place has with you. Waking up by the river is rejuvenating and is the perfect way to start your day as you reconnect with nature. While you’re perfectly welcome to cook all of your meals over a campfire for the full “roughing it” experience, we understand that there are times when you just want to kick back and relax. With that in mind, we also offer hot, home cooked family meals, delivered directly to your door upon request and at an additional expense. Tours Our farm is small but growing daily. We are striving to create a fully functional and self-reliant regenerative farm in an environment that is focused on soil health and increasing biodiversity, while peacefully existing and raising healthy and happy animals. If this is something you're interested in experiencing, we’ve got you covered. We offer different levels of tours and experiences and would love to share our farm, and our knowledge, with you. River dining Sitting on the river bank enjoying a farm-to-table meal can be romantic or just plain fun. We offer a limited amount of lunches by the river as well as candlelit dinners. Just let us know what you’re thinking and how many people you have in your party, and we’ll work with you to make your perfect event happen! Special events If you would like to hold a special event, such as a birthday party, wedding, or family reunion at our farm, we would love to make that happen. Special event availability is on a very limited basis with a select number of dates set aside for these types of events. Let us know what you have in mind and if we have the availability, we’ll work closely with you to make your dream event come true.

12. Earthstar Village

97%

(31)

3 sites · Tents · Pittman Center, TN

Please book at least 24 hours in advance. Amazing View ! Pet friendly! Primitive camping! Just nature and an open spot on the side of a mountain in the woods. Each site has a fire ring, water for the fire and camping potty. It is as close to wilderness as you can get without being in the wilderness. Enjoy the stars at night with no streetlights to distract you from the constellations and the song of crickets, whippoorwills and owls. Located on a mountain this accessible camping spot is just 30 minutes away from Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Also close by are rafting outfits and hiking locations in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Beautiful easily accessed secluded primitive sites, up on a mountain with 45 acres of Appalachian forest land. The road up is about a half mile of gravel road that is in good enough condition for the clearance of most cars if you have questions about it please ask! Front wheel or all wheel drive is recommended. *Pet friendly and implore you to be responsible with your pets. Even though they aren't visible, there are neighbors, keep them with you at the campsite-not roaming the neighborhood. *Trash- pack it in, pack it out.  *Bathroom-This is a primitive site. A camp potty in a privacy tent is provided. Total nature, total privacy. You will be far enough from the nearest homestead to feel completely alone in nature with a panoramic view. There are people close enough that if you dropped/lost your phone and broke your leg some one would eventually hear you. The best of both worlds! Earthstar Village is a place artists, those seeking spiritual solace or just wanting to get away from any hustle and bustle. Retreat to a mountain forest environment in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Vast views for contemplation, trees and woods for wildlife and nature. Room to hike and explore , tune into yourself and capture inspiration.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

Jeremy

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Twin Valley Horse Ranch

Had a great time, Janice was the nicest host. The land was magnificent, we didn't have time to explore many trails or fish in the pond. However, we will be returning to more fully experience the ranch.

L

Laura

December 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to The Legacy At BeeRidges Farm

Very convenient for me, super safe, well-maintained property.

J

Joseph

December 2025

Tent

3 nights at Floras Retreats (29 Sites)

Beautiful property. The on site lodging looked beautiful. The tent site was nice even in the rain. I’ll be back with my family to stay in the tree house. My daughters would love it there. Thank you Tom for a great stay!

S

Stan

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at The Legacy At BeeRidges Farm

A gem of a campsite—secluded, serene, and hosted by truly gracious people. Perfectly situated for easy access to town and nearby trails.

S

Stan

November 2025

19 ft campervan

3 nights at The Legacy At BeeRidges Farm

This is a fabulous camping spot. The host is friendly and cordial. The location is convenient to necessities, i.e. Walmart, Lowes, Planet Fitness, etc. It's a working farm, so don't expect a quiet setting. While it is serene, there's lots of animals and the noises they make. It's awesome!

Chris

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at The Meadows at Poplar Creek

We spent a few nights at the campsite while we explored the OHV trails and downhill mountain bike course at Windrock. The thought of tent camping in one of the huge gravel parking lots surrounded by throngs of people and the rattle of RV generators at one of the large campgrounds in the area held no appeal. This spot was peaceful and quiet, just what we were looking for. Extra bonus points for the burbling creek, the amazing assortment of birds that flew around us in the mornings, and quick and easy access to the trails. No conveniences at the site but $3.00 will buy you a shower at the Windrock Campground, and possibly other campgrounds around.

E

Ethan

November 2025

Tent

1 night at The Legacy At BeeRidges Farm

Camping was easy and the host was welcoming and introduced us to all the animals. Even accommodated our late arrival. Our tent camping wasn't very private, more like camping in a private yard at a hobby farm.

R

Ryan

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Twin Valley Horse Ranch

Awesome experience. It was our kids first time camping. They loved the animals and learning how to work with the mini horses. Janice and Jaden are phenomenal hosts and teachers.

S

Stan

November 2025

19 ft campervan

2 nights at The Legacy At BeeRidges Farm

This is a wonderful place to stay, especially if you enjoy the experience of a working farm. Josh is a fabulous host.

J

Jeff

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at The Legacy At BeeRidges Farm

I had a very peaceful stay. Personally, I love the sounds of alert farm animals. The place was very easy to find and access the campsite was easy. The place gave me a very peaceful sense of security for a few days, to leave my stuff unattended while I researched more permanent local areas. Jacob is a great guy and is there to help anyone, the best he can.

A

Amanda

October 2025

27 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountainfire!

Gavin was quick to respond and very helpful. This was our first time using the app to book a place. The spot was clean and very private.

Andrew

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountainfire!

Gavin was a spectacular host, so kind and friendly, and his property was stunning. We are so grateful to have spent time there as a family and look forward to visiting again soon!

J

Jimmy

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Secluded Black Fox Camping/Camper

My wife and I loved camping here. The host was phenomenal and provided us with a wonderful experience. Definitely would recommend!

M

Maggie

October 2025

With kids

3 nights at Floras Retreats (29 Sites)

Tom’s camper was the perfect getaway on a long weekend for this single mama and two kiddos! It’s perfectly located between the region’s three state parks, with cozy beds, ample heat, plenty of towels and bedding, and all the kitchenware needed. The hot tub, hammock, and fire pit were perfect - the wood and snores supplies were a great touch! The outdoor tv/projection screen were super easy to figure out thanks to their excellent instructions. My kids can’t wait to come back!

A

Abbie

October 2025

Tent

1 night at The Legacy At BeeRidges Farm

The view was breathtaking and the night so peaceful. There was a constant stream of dogs and cats coming by for pets - all very well behaved, so basically the best time.

C

Chris

October 2025

12 ft travel trailer

9 nights at Vee Hollow Campground

Very thoughtful host, very quiet campground. Spent nine nights enjoyed myself thoroughly as I explored the smoky mountains from the base camp at Vee Hollow..

T

Tracee

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Mountainfire!

Feeling safe is number one priority of a single camper. This family did that and more. For a first-time car camper I had a wonderful experience. Looking forward to coming back.

M

Madison

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Twin Valley Horse Ranch

What an amazing experience! A slice of Heaven and Janice is so great and explains everything upon arrival. I will be back many more times!

K

Kelly

October 2025

Weekend Trip to GlampVentures | river + hike +kayak

Our stay at this mountain glamping tent was absolutely incredible! The setting was peaceful and secluded, surrounded by stunning views of the mountains and fresh, crisp air. The tent itself was beautifully set up…… cozy, clean, and thoughtfully stocked with everything we needed for a comfortable stay. The best part was the host, wonderfully responsive, kind, and attentive to every detail. They made sure we had clear directions, checked in to ensure we were comfortable, and went above and beyond to make our stay special. If you’re looking for the perfect mix of nature, comfort, and warm hospitality, this is the place. We left completely relaxed and can’t wait to come back!

Sara

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Panther Creek Hideaway

Great spot. Very private and safe. I didn't see a fire ring or picnic table in our spot like in some of the pictures. Maybe there is more than one spot. The host was very kind. Would stay agian.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Private camping in Norris Lake guide

Where to go

Anderson County

Campgrounds are scattered along the shoreline beside Norris Dam, which sits at the southwestern edge of the lake in Anderson County. Small towns with camping, glamping, and RV sites include Rocky Top, Norris, and Andersonville.

Norris Dam State Park

The 19 cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps at Norris Dam State Park merge Depression-era history with modern amenities. The sprawling lakefront park also has two campgrounds, both with tent and RV campsites. A marina and a Southern Appalachia museum are bonus highlights.

Big Ridge State Park

Lakeside campsites accommodate tents and RVs at Big Ridge State Park, another Depression-era park constructed by the TVA and the CCC. Watersports are popular here, but hikers have plenty of options too, with 15 miles of trails exploring the forests, hollows, and ridges. Campgrounds are also scattered across the towns of Maynardville and New Tazewell.

Knoxville

Tennessee’s capital and the home of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville is a convenient launchpad for campers looking to mix urban adventuring with paddling and fishing at Norris Lake. In Knoxville, ride the elevator to the observation area atop the soaring Sunsphere, then check out the quarry and the nature center inside the Urban Wilderness, a network of parks and multi-use trails scattered across the city. Campgrounds surround the downtown area.