The best camping in Panther Creek State Park, TN

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Low Meadow Farms

96%
(956)
31mi from Panther Creek State Park · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.
Pets
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from 
$30
 / night

Honeysuckle Springs Smoky Mountains

97%
(239)
29mi from Panther Creek State Park · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cosby, TN
Welcome to our beautiful campground nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains! This enchanting getaway offers breathtaking mountain views that will leave you in awe. Whether you're a nature lover, an avid stargazer, or a hiking enthusiast, this spot has it all. One of the standout features of our campground is its unbeatable panoramic view of the majestic Smoky Mountains. Imagine waking up to the sight of rolling peaks and vibrant colors painted across the sky as the sun rises. The evenings are equally mesmerizing, with a clear night sky perfect for stargazing. Be prepared to witness a dazzling display of stars that will leave you feeling connected to the universe. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundant wildlife surrounding the campsite. Keep your camera ready, as you may spot deer gracefully grazing in the nearby fields or catch a glimpse of a majestic eagle soaring through the skies. It's an opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. For adventure seekers, there are numerous hiking trails nearby, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains up close. Whether you're looking for a challenging trek or a leisurely stroll, you'll find the perfect trail to suit your preferences. We understand the importance of comfort during your experience, which is why we provide a well-maintained bathhouse with hot running water. Freshen up after a day of outdoor activities and relax in the clean and inviting facilities. Convenience is key, and our campground is ideally located near two entrances to the Smoky Mountain National Park. This means you'll have easy access to all the park has to offer, from its picturesque trails to its awe-inspiring waterfalls. Adding to the charm of our campground is its historical significance as an old farm. You'll have the opportunity to explore the charming barns and learn about the area's rich agricultural heritage. It's a glimpse into the past that adds a unique touch to your camping experience. We understand the importance of staying connected, even while surrounded by nature. That's why we provide Wi-Fi access, allowing you to share your adventures with friends and family or simply stay connected to the world if needed. While our campground provides a serene and secluded environment, we are just a short 30-minute drive away from the vibrant towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. You'll have the best of both worlds – a peaceful retreat in nature and the option to indulge in the attractions, restaurants, and entertainment that these bustling towns have to offer. Come and experience the beauty, tranquility, and adventure of the Smoky Mountains at our camoground. It's a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for nature's wonders. Please arrive by 9:00 p.m. and observe quiet hours after 10:00 p.m. and before 7:00 a.m.
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$32
 / night

Smoky Mtn Mangalitsa River Ranch

99%
(1508)
50mi from Panther Creek State Park · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Waynesville, NC
Voted #1 in NC and Top 50 in the USA!! We are a Mangalitsa farm in The Smoky Mountains of western NC. The entire property is oriented toward private farmland views, a half mile of river and surrounding mountains. It's really quite remarkable to be so accessible yet feel so remote! Come swim, fish, cook and play! PLEASE NOTE, our rate is based on the number of vehicles in your group. The first vehicle is included in the nightly rate and admits 4 campers. WE CHARGE FOR ADDITIONAL CARS. The charge will be added to your booking once you select the number of vehicles at checkout. Please note that each additional car admits four campers. For EXAMPLE, 2 cars = 8 campers total. If you only have two cars but more than eight people, YOU MUST select the "Extra Person" Extra for each night they are camping. Please select these extras at checkout. If you have questions about this PLEASE message me prior to booking. Our 95-acre farm was once owned by the Davis family who predominantly raised dairy cattle. We now raise the wooly Mangalitsa pig and sell to the best chefs and restaurants. We sell our pork at the farm too! All of our campsites are next to running water except the two hilltop sites. Two porta-potties are on the farm and private porta-potties are available for rent. Groups of eight or more are required to rent a porta potty should you not bring your own toilet system with you. We do not allow the use of our small wooded areas as toilets. Please contact us in advance regarding paying for firewood ($7/5 pieces), dogs ($15 each), day vehicle visitors ($30), private farm tour ($15/person) and/or a private porta potty ($120). thank you! Quiet hours are from 10pm to 9am. Checking in before 5 pm is requested. Later times may be available with prior arrangements. Our farm is very dark and navigating at night is difficult. Contact Catherine directly so you can be checked in safely and accommodate your schedule. LIMITED CHECK-INS AFTER DARK. We are 1 mile off of I 40, 17 minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway, 15 min. to Maggie Valley, 10 min to the Elk at Cataloochee, 25 min to Cataloochee ski area, 10 min to Lake Junaluska and 15 min to downtown Waynesville. Asheville is 20 miles to our East.
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from 
$51
 / night

Sevierville Tennessee Stay

83%
(12)
20mi from Panther Creek State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Sevierville, TN
Welcome to your peaceful retreat in Sevierville, Tennessee, where history, wildlife, and nature meet. This RV-friendly campsite sits on nearly three private acres, surrounded by trees, rolling land, and the gentle sound of a little creek nearby. Wake up to birds singing, deer grazing, and the quiet calm of Tennessee mornings — the perfect setting to enjoy your coffee and unwind from daily life. On the property stands a beautiful 1800s cabin, a piece of local history that we are lovingly restoring little by little to preserve its original charm. Please note: the cabin is not available for rent and is not accessible to guests or visitors. It serves as part of the land’s history and adds a rustic, scenic touch to your stay. You’ll be just minutes from Douglas Lake, where you can fish, kayak, swim, or simply enjoy a peaceful afternoon by the water. The location feels private and relaxing, yet you’re only about 15 minutes from Pigeon Forge, 25 minutes from Gatlinburg, and surrounded by some of Tennessee’s most beautiful natural attractions. Nearby favorites include Douglas Dam Nature Loop, Trotter Bluff Trail, and Laurel Falls Trail — perfect for hiking, photography, and scenic drives. The site is ideal for RVs, camper vans, or small travel trailers, offering space, shade, and tranquility. Evenings here are magical — fireflies sparkle, stars fill the sky, and the soft creek sounds create the perfect backdrop for a relaxing night outdoors. If you’re looking for a quiet, authentic Tennessee experience — close to the Great Smoky Mountains, Douglas Lake, and the charm of the area’s historic roots — this serene property offers the perfect spot to park, relax, and reconnect with nature.
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from 
$25
 / night

Standing Bear Farm / Hostel

95%
(66)
34mi from Panther Creek State Park · 32 sites · Tents, Lodging · Hartford, TN
In the heart of the Smoky Mountains surrounded by Cherokee National Forest lies Standing Bear Farm, a turn of the century multi-generational farmstead including the original homestead, barns, outbuildings and farmhouse. The outbuildings have now been converted to a bunkhouse and cabin where we offer rustic lodging to hikers and others interested in stepping back from today's hectic lifestyle to a time in America's past when life in rural back-country Appalachia was considered the "good life". We are accessible by road via I40. There is a small exit due to construction (BE CAREFUL, as we have had Hipcampers miss the exit) Keep left, go underneath the interstate and up the gravel road (going around the road closed signs) to our hostel which is the first building you come to. We are first-come, first-served in Northbound thru hiking season (March 15 through May 15), however, reservations are available at all other times of the year by contacting us via phone 4234870014 (Call) or 4236080149 (Call or Text). Hike or drive-in. Business hours: 8am-8pm. Open year round and on holidays. Call ahead if arriving early in the morning or late at night. We offer shuttles to various beautiful hikes, waterfalls, and more—on and off the trail. Please call or text us for prices and scheduling or you may email to get a price quote. Price varies based on party size, distance, and road conditions and closures. Give us a call to inquire about our kenneling and shuttle service for your furry friends that are not allowed in the GSMNP. We have trail-foods and ready-to-make foods available on site for all your hiking needs. We also have a camp fuel for sale as well as toiletries and other trail essentials. Restock on essential food items to get you on to Hot Springs (northbound) or through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (southbound). We also have items to cook on hand such as pizzas, burgers, and much more! Book today for a taste of authentic, rustic Appalachian charm. Our farm is steps away from the wilderness, with all the amenities you need. We look forward to meeting ya!
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from 
$23
 / night

GlampKnox Canvas Campground

95%
(179)
23mi from Panther Creek State Park · 5 sites · Lodging · Mascot, TN
GlampKnox, where the outdoors and camping meet luxury! GlampKnox is the new way to glamp! Our BRAND NEW canvas tents sleep 2 to 6 people comfortably with cozy 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 THE SPACE HEATER TO WARM THE TENT: $50 or Bundle of wood, matches and fire starter for $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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$38
 / night

Sunset Ridge in the Smoky Mountains

98%
(78)
31mi from Panther Creek State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Del Rio, TN
Welcome to our picturesque RV site, where you can experience stunning views of the Smoky Mountains, Cherokee National Forest, and Pisgah National Forest. The natural beauty of this area is truly breathtaking, with layers upon layers of mountain vistas stretching as far as the eye can see. Our site is conveniently located just 5 miles from the Martha Sundquist State Forest, offering easy access to hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. For those seeking a bit more adventure, there's also white water rafting just 4.5 miles away! If you're looking to explore the surrounding towns and cities, you're in luck. Our site is located just an hour from Gatlinburg, TN, and Pigeon Forge, TN - two popular tourist destinations known for their theme parks, attractions, and shopping. You're also just an hour away from Asheville, NC, a vibrant city known for its arts, music, and culinary scene. And if you're looking for a more low-key experience, Hot Springs, NC is just 45 minutes away, offering natural hot springs, charming shops, and restaurants. Our RV site is the perfect basecamp for your next adventure in the mountains. You'll have access to all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including electric and water hookups, and ample space for parking. And when you're ready to relax after a long day of exploring, you can kick back and enjoy the stunning views from your RV or around the campfire. We can't wait to welcome you to our little slice of paradise in the mountains!
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$48
 / night

Camp LeConte

100%
(11)
33mi from Panther Creek State Park · 36 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gatlinburg, TN
Welcome to Camp LeConte Adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains and only 4 miles to downtown Gatlinburg you can't get a better location than Camp LeConte. Camp LeConte is a family owned and operated campground since 2013. Ian and Linzy Nicely, and their three children, are happy to have a family business where they can share the love of nature, mountains and Gatlinburg with all their guests. Ian is a lover of all things outdoors. Mix that with Linzy's style and love of decorating and that's Camp LeConte. A glamorous camping destination where you can stay in a luxury tree house, European safari tent or a 1960's retro camper. Bring your own RV or camper and stay in one of our full -hook up sites with 20, 30 and 50 amp service, water, sewer, cable and free wifi. Maybe you are wanting your kids to pitch a real tent (just like you did when you were their age!). We offer primitive tent sites for those of you who really want to rough it!
Pets
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from 
$39
 / night

Twin Valley Horse Ranch

98%
(131)
38mi from Panther Creek State Park · 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! 
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$48
 / night

Other options near Panther Creek State Park

The best camping in Panther Creek State Park, TN guide

Overview

About

Located on the shores of the Cherokee Reservoir, Panther Creek State Park’s rolling hills and valleys are laced with more than 30 miles of trail suitable for hikers, trail runners, mountain bikers, and equestrians, with a terrain that varies from rock gardens to rolling hills and from easy to strenuous. Cherokee Lake invites paddlers and boaters, and provides year-round catches of bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, bream, and rockfish that can weigh up to 20 or 30 pounds. Campers can park their RV or pitch a tent at one of the park’s 50 campsites complete with water and electrical hookups.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Booking in advance is recommended and can be easily done online or by phone up to one year in advance.
  2. Same-day booking is not available online, so you have to call or look for first-come, first-served availability. 
  3. Double-check your dates before booking—a non-refundable booking fee is charged

When to go

Panther Creek State Park is open year-round. You can beat the heat and humidity of the summer months by taking a dip in the outdoor swimming pool or paddling on the lake, but if you want to enjoy the trails, it’s a good idea to visit in the cooler spring or fall months instead. A fall visit also offers colorful foliage.

Know before you go

  • You can purchase firewood, ice, and other basic supplies at the seasonal camp store (closed November through mid-April).
  • Pets are welcome as long as you don’t leave them alone for long periods. Pets are not allowed in park buildings. 
  • Only certified heat-treated firewood is allowed to enter the park as outside firewood.
75%
4 ratings · 0 reviews