The best camping near Watts Bar Lake

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next adventure.

93% (2385 reviews)

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Watts Bar Lake

Public campgrounds near Watts Bar Lake

Trails are clearly marked. We did wonder if we were on the correct trail to Bird Mountain campsite, but once we got up the Castle Rock, there was a sign pointing out the way!

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Big Cove Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents In Frozen Head State Park

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(3)

Cumberland Mountain Campground

146 sites · RVs, Tents In Cumberland Mountain State Park

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Flat Fork Campground

8 sites In Frozen Head State Park

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(1)

Young Branch Horse Campground

7 sites In Cherokee National Forest

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(10)

Indian Boundary Campground

87 sites · RVs, Tents In Cherokee National Forest

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Cove Lake Campground

106 sites · RVs, Tents In Cove Lake State Park

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(2)

McNabb Creek Group Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Cherokee National Forest

Just hanging with our buds! Lots of good hammock trees in most sites.

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(33)

Cades Cove Campground

160 sites · RVs, Tents In Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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(2)

Donley Cabin

1 site In Cherokee National Forest

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(19)

Bandy Creek Campground

145 sites · RVs, Tents In Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

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(1)

North River Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents In Cherokee National Forest

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(5)

Joyce Kilmer Road NCSR #1134

1 site In Nantahala National Forest

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(38)

Cades Cove Group Campground

4 sites In Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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(1)

Holly Flats Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In Cherokee National Forest

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Spivey Cove Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In Cherokee National Forest

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(4)

Rattler Ford Campground

4 sites In Nantahala National Forest

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(3)

Santeetlah Creek FDR #81

1 site In Nantahala National Forest

Views for days. Guaranteed: a sight to see come sunset

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(3)

Chilhowee Group Campground

1 site In Cherokee National Forest

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(2)

Horse Cove Campground

18 sites In Nantahala National Forest

Jake Best Campground

7 sites · RVs, Tents In Cherokee National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Watts Bar Lake

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Low Meadow Farms

19 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Knoxville, TN

Low Meadow Farms (formerly Brown Bike Farms) is a serene four-acre meadow bordered by Burnett Creek. The campground is an easy distance to Downtown Knoxville and an even easier access to all that South Knox's Urban Wilderness has to offer. It uniquely offers a hint of backcountry camping without the 25-mile hike in. It is a great way to test the waters for primitive camping or an easy stop close to the city for a seasoned traveler. It is best suited for car camping, RVs, tent, and hammock camping. There are fire pits and picnic tables at each site with enough room for tents and RVs. Most sites have trees suitable for hammock camping all along the creek. There is potable water, firewood for sale, solar showers, and a bike wash stand all next to the covered communal area. Each standard site can accommodate 2 people to keep space between groups and lessen the impact on the land. Sites 10 and 13 can each accommodate 6 guests. If you have more in your group, we recommend reserving an adjoining campsite. Sites 1, 2 and 3 are off the main path to the left of the property, and still by the creek. Sites 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 are all along the creek and gravel drive Site 10 is very private with creek access on three sides. Site 11 is private with creek access all along the front. Site 12 is up high on a hill, and Site 13 is open in the middle of the meadow.

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(209)

Mountain Creek Rest

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents41 acres · Robbinsville, NC

Heartstone tent site is a stunningly beautiful, romantic campsite for 2! There is a new, large tent pad if you have children! The Diamondstone site is a unique, beautiful, one-of-a-kind tentsite, EXCEPT a beautiful, furnished, shelter cabin is provided for you instead of your tent!!! Leave your tent and set-up at home! There is also room for a tent and your children out front, right beside the creek! Islandsite is an equally beautiful tent site ideally for two, but the 10x12 platform can accommodate a 6-man tent, best for 2 adults and a couple of kids! You won't want to leave, but if you do there are many recreational opportunities in the area such as hiking, biking, rafting, fishing, and more! Stays of 6 days or more get a big discount! Enjoy the fresh, cooler mountain air, and the beautiful, settings! Heartstone is located on a modestly pitched, terraced slope where a divided mountain stream, the tumbling Squally Creek rejoins itself! The sunlight filters down through the forest canopy providing a warm, inviting glow!! There is a 9'-6" x 10' wooden tent platform, and if needed a new, larger tent pad! Islandsite is located at the top of the island where the tumbling Squally Creek divides! Access is provided by the 40' long fallen tree bridge! Islandsite is unique, private, and very romantic! Diamondstone, Heartstone, and Islandsite feature a picnic table, charcoal grille, and comfort facility all within a short walk from your private parking! Enjoy evenings at the new fire pit area with benches overlooking the fire pit and creek! Explore the island on the 400' island trail, or go downstream to a nice pool for dipping! Contact me for discounts when staying more than 6 nights! The gravel road is uneven, and 5" of clearance is recommended. Extra guests are an available option! The property is spacious and there is parking for a second vehicle nearby if needed!

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Critter Camp

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Sevierville, TN

I wanted to let everyone know , we lost our serval, Foose in February, he was 22 years old, he will be missed ... I loved him his whole life. We still have horses and the LYNX and a few smaller rescues , including 4 dogs. We are in the Heart of it all. Looking for quiet nights and super starry skies? This is the place. We have 2 rescued horses and a donkey. A lynx, sugergliders and trained rats from a movie. 4 dogs , 3 house cats. We are located exactly in the middle between Pigeon Forge(with shows and go karts) andTownsend.. with the quiet side of the smokies... tubing, horseback riding, hiking, Cades Cove offers biking and car tours. We are one mile from the foothills parkway entrance and less than 2 miles to a Great Smoky mountains entrance. Our sites offer toilets, potable water and trash disposal. We are pet friendly, and you are permitted to have campfires (outside of any burn ban). We offer animal encounters.

Booked 1 time

Magnolia Moon Farm

3 sites · Lodging1 acre · Sweetwater, TN

Bring your tribe and rent the entire property! You can even bring tents for additional space! We have a Vintage 1971 Camper with Deck! Super Cool! We also have an exotic, Stargazer Tent with queen bed! Or rent out units separately! Check out our Guidebook! https://guide.touchstay.com/guest/bF0pxf4yroPaV Both have Air Conditioning, Mini Fridge, bottled water, Keurig coffee maker and Snacks! See our Guidebook under Website!

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(154)

GlampKnox Canvas Campground

5 sites · Lodging55 acres · Mascot, TN

GlampKnox, where the outdoors meet luxury! GlampKnox is the new way to glamp! Our BRAND NEW canvas tent sleeps 2 comfortably with 2 cozy twin beds, towels and linens provided, outdoor HOT and cold shower, INDOOR SPACE HEATER and private men's and women's bathrooms. Relax by the fire pit, and enjoy our LED lantern, ice machine, fan, private parking, extended covered porch with rocking chairs, and views of the beautiful Cumberland Mountains. This is the perfect getaway! Available for rent: 20 lb PROPANE FOR SPACE HEATER TO WARM THE TENT: $50 Bundle of wood, matches and fire starter $15 *PLEASE MAKE REQUESTS BEFORE 5PM, OUR STAFF GOES HOME TO THEIR FAMILIES. THANK YOU. HOWEVER, FEEL FREE TO REACH OUT WITH QUESTIONS ABOUT DIRECTIONS OR ISSUES YOU MAY HAVE 24/7. Follow us on Instagram @GlampKnox

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Eads Bluff Farm

41 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Georgetown, TN

You won’t find a better view anywhere with easy access from interstate 75. Enjoy all kinds of water sports while you’re just 20 minutes from shopping and restaurants in Charlston TN. Up nTo Six guest on this site Kayaks for rent so bring your camping gear and camp with us take a look at Eads Bluff Overlook.. Don't forget to bring your pets as they make any campfire so much better. https://youtu.be/pPBPh2Hdy-o

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Breathtaking Waterfall & Campsite

11 sites · Tents35 acres · Jamestown, TN

Book by the end of March and get a Early Bird Discount! SLTABXED (10%) This hidden paradise has a waterfall that used to have a mill on it in the early 1900's. There are cliffs on each side of the creek making it the perfect spot for serene relaxation. Following upstream is an assortment of spots to pitch a tent. The most notable sites are surrounded by hemlock tree's and is peaceful when birds chirp over the small rapids echoing from the large overhang *I am in the process of making multiple sites but until I do so it is first come first serve. There are multiple sites at main campsite and along creek, I've had a private event of thirty people staying at once. There are also smaller spots next to waterfall, uphill near cliff and I've had people go below falls for some complete wilderness (blocked by gorge and waterfall). With this being said, I do offer private bookings and accommodate special events! *I travel for work, so I won't always be here, but I will send directions and details after confirmation and make sure all is savvy during. Please be respectful to one and another and let me know asap if any issues arise but truthfully everyone has been amazing and I thoroughly enjoy meeting and getting to know everyone! Thanks for your contribution in turning my dream into a reality!

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(55)

Awakening Adventures

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents42 acres · Grandview, TN

Welcome to our serene and rejuvenating private getaway nestled within 42 acres of forested beauty. The Sanctuary offers an unparalleled experience where nature meets comfort, allowing you and your group to unwind and reconnect with the tranquil surroundings. We have added multiple tree swings throughout the forest. We are uniquely situated on the edge of the Tennessee Cumberland Plateau and the Tennessee river valley. We are currently offering 4 treehouse dwellings to share our peaceful land full of God's promises. The dwellings are spaced far enough apart for privacy yet not to far of a walk to the common area where the kitchen and shower are. You'll be surprised at how cool the tents stay under the forest canopy in the heat of summer. Then in the colder months we have various heating options to keep you cozy in 3 of the dwellings I hope you come to share this with us, it's an amazingly peaceful area. Nearly 3 miles of hiking trails to enjoy during your visit. Take a spur trail off the main trail loop and there is a prayer shelter with a fire pit inspired by Luke 6:12 in the back corner of the property. Located at the edge of the prarie on the main trail is a sunrise/sunset/bird-watching platform that is 20 feet in the air with a 2 stage bridge to access it. We updated the outdoor kitchen with a 3 burner propane stove, propane grill and hot running water with a 3 bay sink. Other cooking options include a tripod over the fire and a charcoal grill. A short 10-minute drive to fire tower rd. brings you to a 2 mile loop trail with 2 waterfalls, Upper and Lower Piney Falls. Ozone falls is just a 20 minute drive. Then toward Spring City is Stinging Fork Falls at 25 minutes. Black mountain is my new favorite place especially the south overlook! The Hiking possibilities are nearly endless and close. I'll highlight one thru hike here since both trailheads are only 20 minutes away and is easy to coordinate with only 2 vehicles. It's a 10.2 mile hike that can be done in either direction and has a little something for everyone including a cave, boulder field, cascade and waterfall. Then you have massive Watts Bar Lake which is only 20 minutes away with a plethora of activities including the excursions we offer! We look forward to hosting you!

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Shiloh @ Watts Bar Tent Campsite

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Rockwood, TN

Find peace at this private campsite close to Watts Bar Lake. Nestled in the tall trees, your large, private site features a fire pit, picnic table, and a “Tennessee Bathroom.” Site is nearly 100% shaded all day long. The area is surprisingly quiet. Deer, turkey, turtles, frogs, and cardinals have all been seen on the property. Before you exit your tent in the morning, stay quiet and look out first - who knows what you might see. Parking is right next to the site. Watts Bar Lake is within a few hundred yards and a public boat ramp is just about 3 minutes down the road. Watts Bar is over 72 miles long, 722 miles of shoreline, and is known for good fishing, kayaking, birdwatching, and other recreation. This is a good base for day trips to Knoxville, Chattanooga, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Smoky Mountain National Park. Note: Bring your own tent/supplies, or options include tent and/or propane tank rental. Pack out your own food, animal, and human waste. As this is private property, it is still the woods of Tennessee, so expect all that goes along with that. This property is in development, so added lodging and amenities will come on line in the future. We welcome your feedback. Enjoy the Tennessee peace and tranquility for one night or more!

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Twin Valley Horse Ranch

5 sites · Lodging100 acres · 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!

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Green Acres of Loudon

1 site · RV1 acre · Loudon, TN

This is our beautiful home nestled in the hills of Tennessee Learn more about this land: Come stay a while at Green Acres in beautiful Loudon County, Tennessee! Enjoy nice country setting with beautiful sunset views over a hay field, with a mountainside backdrop. Full hookups (Water, Electricity, and Sewer). Electrical is 30A or 50A, your choice. Site is a gravel pull-through site with room for a tow behind vehicle or boat. No Wi-Fi available. Confirmed ATT cell service works well. Verizon does not work well in this area. Unsure about other providers. About 1 mile from a public fishing pier and boat ramp on the Tennessee River. About 4 miles from I-75. Campfires are allowed within local regulations. Bring your own fire pit or upon request a fire pit will be provided, if available. There is also a picnic table at the site for your use! Pets are welcome! You'll be the only camper here, so privacy is exceptional. Feel free to contact me with any questions. We'll see you soon! Conveniently located within 1-2 hours of over 20 popular East TN travel destinations. To help you plan your stay, here are a few of our recommendations! Hiking: • Cades Cove – Townsend, TN • Gatlinburg • Fall Creek Falls State Park • Frozen Head State Park • Fort Loudoun State Park • Cherokee National Forest • Oak Ridge Arboretum • Ijam’s Nature Center Day Trips: • Zoo Knoxville • Chattanooga Aquarium • Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies • Atlanta Aquarium (~3 hours away, but definitely worth the trip!) • Muse Knoxville • Oak Ridge Children’s Museum • Sweetwater Valley Farm • Indian Boundary Lake • Dollywood • Splash Country Motorcycling and ATV adventures: • WindRock Park • Cherohala Skyway

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The Legacy At BeeRidges Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · 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!

The best camping near Watts Bar Lake guide

Overview

Camping at Watts Bar Lake puts you right in the middle of Tennessee’s rolling hills and vast shoreline. With over 1,800 campsite options, you’ll find spots ranging from shady groves to open fields, all just steps from the water. Prices start at $8 a night, with an average stay running $45. Showers, campfires, and pet-friendly sites are standard here. Anglers love the easy lake access, and you’ll see plenty of folks heading out on horseback or hitting the hiking trails. If you want a local favorite, check out Low Meadow Farms (540 reviews), Eads Bluff Farm (275 reviews), or Mountain Creek Rest (173 reviews). Pack your gear, bring your dog, and get ready for evenings by the fire and mornings on the water.

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