Lake Camping in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2024

United States
—
Tennessee
—
Gatlinburg

96% (1583 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Gatlinburg

Dog-friendly getaways

12 top lakeside campgrounds near Gatlinburg

98%

(60)

LAKESIDE GETAWAY ON DOUGLAS

35 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Dandridge, TN

Lakeside Getaway is a seasonal peninsula on Douglas Lake of primitive camping sites in historic Dandridge, Tn just 30 min from Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area. Come enjoy your boat, jet ski, or kayaks from our 75 foot boat dock and new concrete boat ramp for launching. Our pavilion is a nice commons area with a charcoal stove and can be reserved for private parties. We rent out Kayaks to parties or individuals. Our quite cove is about 2 miles long and very secluded... Great for Kayaking! Call for more details and questions: 423-231-9399 or 423-231-4094

Harmony hollow

7 sites · Tents80 acres · Sevierville, TN

Learn more about this land:Hi and thanks so much for checking out Harmony Farm . We are conveniently located minutes from Pigeon Forge TN. Home of and only 5 miles from Dollywood. Only a short drive to the Great Smoky Mountains national park . There are too many local attractions to list from horseback riding to shopping outlet malls . Free firewood at every site upon your arrival. There is a composting potty in the barn area that has been upgraded recently as well as potable water . We are accepting tents, trucks with campers, vans and pop up campers welcomed also . We do have sites set up for you or you may prefer to pack your gear out to create your own site in a more secluded areas of the farm . There are many private areas along the creekside for your primitive camp on our 60 acre horse farm. Hike to the back of the farm to watch a sunset over the horse field or down by the stream . Lots of wildlife and scenery at the farm . Laundromat and food venues just minutes away. you can still feel off grid with just a short stroll by the stream that babbles along throughout the 60 acres you will be able to make your playground while visiting the Harmony Farm. Come stay with us as we grow our hip community. Thanks so much for your support.

At the Ridge Camp-Riverside Escapes

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents36 acres · Balsam Grove, NC

Our property was once owned by Transylvania County Sheriff Carter McCall. 36 acres in the middle of Pisgah National Forest. “Simple Mountain Camping” is our motto. Located approximately seven miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway, At the Ridge Campground is surrounded by North Carolina’s beautiful Pisgah National Forest and the North Fork River. Here you can experience what you came to the Blue Ridge Mountains for: crisp evenings, sitting around the campfire, excellent views, relaxing in nature, hiking to waterfalls and fishing, Don’t forget our favorite, just watching the water go by! All at an affordable price.

CreekStone in Candler, NC

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents25 acres · Candler, NC

Awesome 360° Mountain Views at CreekStone’s three VISTA360 campsites for small to large RV’s/campers, a tiny home and two tent camping spaces in Candler, North Carolina. Enjoy the mountains and lots of space to roam, hike, pitch horseshoe, enjoy fires in fire pit or simply relax and enjoy the views. All three of the RV/camper spaces have both 30/50 amp electrical power, sewer and water hookup. The tent camping space has toilet facilities, access to water and trash disposal. The tiny home accommodates 2-3 people - perfect for those who want to be close to their camping friends/families but don’t have campers. This property was my childhood home and after retiring, my husband and I moved back to one of the homes on this farm where I grew up. He has since passed and my son, Todd, now helps me maintain the property and assists with ensuring the best experience for our guests. We wanted to offer this space for campers to share the awesome views and this part of North Carolina with others who enjoy nature, outdoors, and all the great things to experience in the surrounding towns. Only a 20 minute drive to Asheville where you can tour Biltmore House, Grove Park, breweries, eat at many great restaurants, enjoy rafting, zip lining and many other outdoor activities. We are 15 minutes from Blue Ridge Parkway with 2-lane, less traveled access road to get there. Bring your bikes and hiking equipment - plenty of room to ride and roam. The old red barn on property has been restored and offers relaxation loft for your enjoyment.

100%

(2)

Turkey Creek Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Almond, NC

Located just a short drive from Bryson City in Western North Carolina, Turkey Creek Campground is the perfect staging ground for all your Smoky Mountain adventures. Our quiet, family-friendly campground is located just minutes from the Tsali Mountain Bike Trails, the Nantahala River and Outdoor Center, and the Appalachian Trail. The camp is located just steps from Fontana Lake where you can enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, paddle-boarding or just leisurely enjoying the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. When the sun goes down, the fireflies come alive and are only outshined by the beautiful night sky views. Our campground features generous and well-groomed tent pads, 20/30 and 50 amp power connections (full hookup available), freshwater access at every site, picnic tables and fire rings. If you’re traveling in a van, RV or pulling a trailer, we have options for all our guests. Our bathhouse and laundry facilities are impeccable and we have an elevated deck area that overlooks the camp and is perfect for gatherings or just sitting in a rocking chair enjoying a good book. If you really must be productive or keep yourself connected to the outside world, we have fast, reliable high-speed WiFi available throughout the camp. Consistently voted one of the “Top 10 Best Campgrounds”, come see what it’s like to be treated like family at Turkey Creek Campground. For more camping options - including group reservations - please visit our website at https://roam.camp/turkey-creek-campground or call 828-307-3077.

Mountaintop Fantasy

4 sites · Lodging8 acres · Cullowhee, NC

Selected by Outside Magazine as their Favorite Hipcamp in North Carolina and a Hipcamp Finalist in N.C. 2020, 2021, and 2022 and runner up best treehouse in 2023, you can choose among three separate and memorable experiences in our 8 acre compound: 1) a woodsy, peaceful glamping experience with million dollar views in an 6 person tent;; 2) a glampingTreehouse with W/C; and 3) the newly built 2BR 1 1/2 BA private annex to our house. Each can be all yours - this is not a commercial campground. Explore the innumerable trails and waterfalls of the Smokies; fish in the Lake or numerous rivers and streams; swim in the Lake and at the sand beach down the road; rent a pontoon boat; travel the Blue Ridge Parkway; enjoy the shopping and restaurants of nearby Cashiers and Highlands. Or just chill out. These are truly unique high altitude sites with amenities you won't find elsewhere. Both are in a gated "subdivision" that has 60 lots but only 8 houses - the rest is woods and the only place in your vicinity is our cabin. With unmatched mountain and western views, if you like the great outdoors on the mountain and in the woods, This is the place for you and your family. If you like a more camping style with tent (provided), covered camp kitchen, table and firepit ( along with the uncovered ones) check out Smoky Mountain High. Don't like tents? No problem. Check out our Treehouse with kitchen, bunks, grill, cooktop, heaters, W/C and more. Prefer indoor rustic luxury? The Glenville Aerie (4100') is a fully furnished, annex we built for our family, guests and friends who value their privacy. Walkie-talkies to facilitate mountain communications. Board games too. Access to our dock, canoes and kayak? Yep. Adult life preservers provided. Secret nature trail to our kids playground and trampoline. Hammock, kid's swing, hanging chair and dining for 6. Visit with Jake the Cat and our chickens. This area is truly one of a kind spiritual respite. These mountains are justly known for hiking, fishing, water sports, chilling out and forgetting about the Virus, politics and the nuisances of the workaday world. Our goal is to provide you and your family with an unforgettable and magical N.C. mountain experience, while reducing your blood pressure.

93%

(174)

Trout Creek Campgrounds

22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Tuckasegee, NC

When you think about camping, does your mind automatically think of a tent and a fire? Or is it more of an RV in a campground? Do you have arguments of whether or not your way of “sleeping outside” is actually camping? Well, opinions of all kinds obviously exist, but it’s true: camping exists in many forms. So whether you’re a newbie to camping and you don’t know where to start, or you’re a seasoned pro looking for inspiration, here are some kinds of camping to get you started on your next getaway. To backcountry camp, you generally have to go somewhere inaccessible from roads. It can be a mile away from the trailhead or somewhere in the middle of a mountain range during a weeklong trek. The point is you’re away from civilization. You pack in what you can carry, are never without a Swiss Army Knife, and (hopefully) pack out all of your waste and leave everything looking as good (or better) than when you came. ALL BOOKINGS ARE AUTOMATICALLY OFF-CREEK. UPGRADES ARE AVAILABLE DEPENDANT ON AVAILABILITY. SORRY FOR THE INCONVENIENCE HOWEVER ALL PAYMENTS ARE NONREFUNDABLE.

97%

(114)

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!

93%

(41)

Nantahala: Cabins & Campsites

13 sites · Lodging, Tents7 acres · NC

We just retired from Active Duty Air Force! My ancestors have owned the land our NC cabins sit on since 1836. In fact, my mother grew up there after my Grandfather returned from WWII when there was no electricity and the outhouse was a bench over the creek. I grew up hiking the mountains with my brothers and our BB guns and my Uncle Frank at our family reunions. In 2005 he deeded us a parcel of land and we built our first cabin - Smawlie. We love to come to the cabin and Hike the trails on our own property, and of course, the world famous ones that join them, namely the Bartram and the Appalachian Trails. As you explore the lake, the trails, the rivers, and the mountain roads you'll see why our ancestors settled here. In 2018 - we bought the remainder of Uncle Frank's land - and in his honor built our second cabin - Frank's Landing. Also in that year I started managing my brother Bill's cabin. When we were stationed in Alaska for 6 heavenly years - we purchased a remote parcel of property and have slowly begun to develop it. We just completed building our cabin there. Thanks for reading this little tid bit about us. We love to explore the mountains and are excited to share our cabins with you.

99%

(135)

Harmony Glen

2 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Tuckasegee, NC

My property has supported families for several generations. From a small farm with typical livestock and vegetable gardens to a tree seedling nursery to cattle grazing in the fields, it has served its owners well. During the 1940's and early '50's, the Argura Post Office was located on the porch of my house. I have the original cancellation stamp. My husband is deceased, and I am hosting campers to meet people who love to camp as much as we did. My photo is with my dog Mollie. I hike with a group weekly and can make hiking suggestions as well as fishing suggestions. Harmony Glen is a wonderful place!

100%

(2)

Tranquil- Lakefront living

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Bean Station, TN

This secluded spot on a private drive is a perfect little getaway location. You have lake view and lake access by foot. Vehicle will be parked on the 25 ft stretch of grass pad above the campsite. Fire pit is on premise and ready for use with a walking trail to the water. Kayaks are available for rental to navigate Cherokee Lake. Trees surround you full of wild rabbits, birds and squirrels. Chipmunks visit as well, and you might get a fox passing through. Down at the water about 50 ft from your site you have the availability to fish, wade in the water, Kayak, or sit and watch the ducks, geese, turtles and more. This is a private drive so please respect other tenants who have come to enjoy seclusion and serenity during their stay. We are in a rural area about 22 minutes from main town. However, there are three restaurants, the best Blue Bell ice cream parlor, a grocery store and post office all within 8 minutes. We are 12 minutes from one of the best Disc Golf courses, 25 minutes from Parks/trails/waterfalls, and only about an hour from major tourist sites in Sevierville/Pigeon Forge/ Gatlinburg/ Knoxville/Bristol Speedway. You will have solitude during your stay but opportunities for communication and aid from host is available. HAPPY TRAVELING TO YOU :)

93%

(7)

Country Comfort Camping

2 sites · Lodging21 acres · Hot Springs, NC

Hotsprings NC, is an enchanting small town with a rich historical background. The 100+ year old resort is where the Appalachian trail goes right through. The property was once the haven to the rich aristocrats from the north.Learn more about this land:Hotsprings NC, is an enchanting small town with a rich historical background. The 100+ year old resort is where the Appalachian trail goes right through. The property was once the haven to the rich aristocrats from the north. The RV space will require leveling is loose gravel. The space can accommodate vehicles up to 45 ft. in maximum length and slideouts. There are 30 and 50 amps electrical hookups.Campfires are allowed within local regulations.The property is located roughly about 7 to 10 minutes from downtown Hot Springs. There are a lot of great hiking spots here and plenty of things to do from white water tubing to fishing, camping etc. We're also not far from Smokey Mountain National Park, as well as, Asheville and Gatlinburg.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(1)

Lake Barkley

Cumberland City, Tennessee

Big Ridge State Park

Maynardville, Tennessee

75%

(4)

Panther Creek State Park

Morristown, Tennessee

75%

(8)

Norris Dam State Park

Lake City, Tennessee

Lakeside camping near Gatlinburg guide

Overview

Gather up the gear and enjoy a lake camping trip near Gatlinburg. About an hour drive northeast sits Douglas Lake, its crystal waters surrounded by rolling hills. On-site campgrounds offer primitive lakeside campsites, full hookups, AD- accessible spots, and access to nearby boat launches. Farther north, Cherokee Lake welcomes campers to “the most beautiful lake in Tennessee.” More clear blue waters await, as well as bountiful bass fishing and multiple campgrounds. Cherokee Lake campers can enjoy budget-friendly tent sites, lakefront RV spots, picnic areas, soccer fields, boat launches, and walking trails. For those traveling south of Gatlinburg, spend the day at Lake in the Sky—close to the border of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This artificial lake provides 52 acres of water for boating, fishing, and swimming. Nearby campgrounds and Hipcamps offer easy access to the water.