Lake Camping in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2024

United States
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Tennessee
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Pigeon Forge

97% (1534 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Pigeon Forge

Under $50

Dog-friendly getaways

95%

(209)

Gateway to the Smokies

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Whittier, NC

Private campground featuring two very large campsites on our 2 acre property. The private drive and bridge that crosses over our creek has a security cable that can be locked. We are located right off of Hwy 441. 4 miles to Cherokee, 7 miles to National Park and 8 miles to Bryson City.

97%

(102)

Appalachian Pond Campground

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Waynesville, NC

Get back to nature at this incredible private campground nestled in the Great Smokey Mountains of Western North Carolina! This tranquil campground offers a peaceful place to unwind while listening to the wonderful sights and sounds of nature at its best! There are 11 unique and cozy campsites to choose from as well as a shower and portable potties. This campground has a pond for fishing and swimming, a creek running along the campsites and is surrounded by the most magnificent and beautiful foliage and wildlife! Prepare to have the most peaceful sleep under the glorious celestial stars of Western North Carolina! *We also have a sink for dishes alongside the shower house as well as a drinkable well water spicket in the back of the campground! *We are also located close to stores for your convenience as well as many nearby attractions! * Please contact us regarding pets before booking… *We recommend checking in before 10 pm…. The property gets really dark and hard to navigate at night without being shown where to go! If for any reason you will be getting here later please inform us upon booking so we can plan for your arrival! *During the months from November to April we cannot guarantee our shower will be operational due to freezing temperatures. However, during warm periods during those months we do have our shower available. If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of life and return to the simplicity of nature this is your spot! We hope to see you soon!!

99%

(217)

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.

98%

(83)

Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents108 acres · Cullowhee, NC

Four years ago I purchased my dream retirement.... 108 acres in the beautiful college town of Cullowhee, NC. Nestled up to the Great Smoky Mountains National park, this property is unique in everything it offers. Riverside on the renowned fly fishing river, the Tuckasegee River, or ridge top on Cullowhee Mountain, elevation 3850'. There are improved camp sites, a yurt, or free range camping and hiking. The fall views are spectacular, wherever you decide to locate. We implement " Leave no trace" rules and welcome respectful 4wd access to our ridge top. We are currently endeavoring agroforestry techniques to respectfully harvest the bounties of the woodlands in our Living Mountain Farms online store. Our hope is to one day make this magical mountain sustain those who reside upon the reserve, and provide a most memorable stay for our guests!Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

97%

(118)

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!

12 top lakeside campgrounds near Pigeon Forge

95%

(304)

Harmony hollow

6 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Sevierville, TN

Learn more about this land: Hi and thanks so much for checking out the Harmony Farm . Things available you can enjoy here onsite are a small (seasonal) splash pool , a small take one leave one library , fresh organic vegetables (free) when in season , fresh eggs when available , trails with scenic views , abundant wildlife and natural springs , an outdoor macrame swing , two person hammock , forageable firewood , morels , a hot outdoor showers and EXTRA LARGE sites, . We are conveniently located minutes from Pigeon Forge TN. Home of and only 5 miles from Dollywood and 13 minutes from a super Walmart Incase you forget something . Only a short 30 minute drive gets you to the Great Smoky Mountains national park. I will be happy to share the scenic route . Greenbrier Tn. one of the first settlements here in the National park is only a scenic 30 minute scenic drive from the farm which will takes you through the arts and crafts community while avoiding the hectic hustle and bustle of town . While visiting Greenbrier you can find a picnic area near the river and an outdoor pavilion with a large grill for your special events located there . Several trail heads are located there in the Greenbrier community including Brushy Mountain trail Old settlers trail (several old settlements can easily be found here) Porters Gap trail. There are too many local attractions to list within 15 to 25 minute drive , from horseback riding . tubing, rafting , smoky mountain gravity park to shopping outlet malls . READ !! Be sure to check mypigeonforge.com , pigeonforge.com or gatlinburg.com to find all the local special events calenders as there is at times ALOT of heavy traffic you may not be prepared for . You're welcome . Discounted rides at local riding stables upon request depending on availability . We are accepting tents, hammocks, trucks, with campers, camper vans and pop up campers welcomed also .Small tear drop types ok . 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 creek side for your primitive camp on our 80 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 . You will find the 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 80 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.

Gateway to the Smokies

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Whittier, NC

Private campground featuring two very large campsites on our 2 acre property. The private drive and bridge that crosses over our creek has a security cable that can be locked. We are located right off of Hwy 441. 4 miles to Cherokee, 7 miles to National Park and 8 miles to Bryson City.

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.

Appalachian Pond Campground

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Waynesville, NC

Get back to nature at this incredible private campground nestled in the Great Smokey Mountains of Western North Carolina! This tranquil campground offers a peaceful place to unwind while listening to the wonderful sights and sounds of nature at its best! There are 11 unique and cozy campsites to choose from as well as a shower and portable potties. This campground has a pond for fishing and swimming, a creek running along the campsites and is surrounded by the most magnificent and beautiful foliage and wildlife! Prepare to have the most peaceful sleep under the glorious celestial stars of Western North Carolina! *We also have a sink for dishes alongside the shower house as well as a drinkable well water spicket in the back of the campground! *We are also located close to stores for your convenience as well as many nearby attractions! * Please contact us regarding pets before booking… *We recommend checking in before 10 pm…. The property gets really dark and hard to navigate at night without being shown where to go! If for any reason you will be getting here later please inform us upon booking so we can plan for your arrival! *During the months from November to April we cannot guarantee our shower will be operational due to freezing temperatures. However, during warm periods during those months we do have our shower available. If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of life and return to the simplicity of nature this is your spot! We hope to see you soon!!

Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents108 acres · Cullowhee, NC

Four years ago I purchased my dream retirement.... 108 acres in the beautiful college town of Cullowhee, NC. Nestled up to the Great Smoky Mountains National park, this property is unique in everything it offers. Riverside on the renowned fly fishing river, the Tuckasegee River, or ridge top on Cullowhee Mountain, elevation 3850'. There are improved camp sites, a yurt, or free range camping and hiking. The fall views are spectacular, wherever you decide to locate. We implement " Leave no trace" rules and welcome respectful 4wd access to our ridge top. We are currently endeavoring agroforestry techniques to respectfully harvest the bounties of the woodlands in our Living Mountain Farms online store. Our hope is to one day make this magical mountain sustain those who reside upon the reserve, and provide a most memorable stay for our guests!Destination Outdoors! DO IT!

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!

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.

100%

(47)

GlampVentures- @ Nolichucky River

5 sites · Lodging75 acres · 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 not one, not two, but 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 harvest from our property.🌳🏕️ 🚣‍♀️ Kayaking, Fishing, Hiking: 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 catered picnics at a charming vineyard, embark on an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip, and get lost in the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. 🐆🍷🚣‍♂️🏔️ 🎢 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! 🌄🏕️ #MountainEscape #SecludedParadise #NolichuckyRiver #SmokyMountains #OffGridGetaway #KayakingAdventure #WhitewaterRafting #GreatSmokyMountains #Dollywood #ExploreTheOutdoors #BookNow

LAKESIDE GETAWAY ON DOUGLAS

45 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

Karps Smoky Mountain Getaway

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Gatlinburg, TN

We are located in beautiful Great Smoky Mountains. This is a family oriented resort and lot will accommodate a Motorhome or Hard body camper up to 45 feet long. Lot is equipped with sewer, water and 50amp/30 amp/20amp service for power. We have many amenities such as 2 pools, 3 bath houses, adult recreation room, A library that includes various genres to read for adults and kids while relaxing next to the onsite firepit, coin and credit/debit card laundry mat, arcade, basketball court, playground, horseshoe pits and mini golf. There is also a catch and release fishing lake in the resorts. We do have cable and wifi on location. We also sit on 2 beautiful mountain streams. We also have many activities going on during the major holidays such as cornhole tournament, cookout and kids activities. The HOA does charge a one-time $10 per pet fee up to two pets upon check-in at the office, and is separate from anything I collect. We are nearby downtown Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville. Where you can experience shopping, wine and moonshine tastings and wonderful dining. We also have many hiking trails nearby and some have breathtaking waterfalls and views. Other close attractions are several golf course, gift shops and restaurants. Outdoor Resorts at Gatlinburg is a great vacation spot where you can experience many memories with your family.

99%

(151)

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!

Booked 1 time

Starry Nights

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Gatlinburg, TN

Welcome to "Starry Nights," our cozy camper at Outdoor Resorts in Gatlinburg, TN, nestled by the scenic Bent Creek Golf Course. Embrace enchanting evenings by the fire pit, creating memories under the starlit sky. Outdoor Resorts is a haven of recreation, offering pools, mini golf, a playground, a creek for nature strolls, and even a shuffleboard area for friendly competition. For fishing enthusiasts, there's a catch-and-release lake, providing a serene spot to enjoy the quiet art of angling. Inside "Starry Nights," discover an open kitchen with an island, a snug queen bedroom, and a sleeper sofa for extra sleeping space. Stay connected with high-speed Starlink internet, perfect for streaming your favorite channels and enjoying movie nights with FuboTV. Step outside and immerse yourself in campground life, where the sounds of nature and the fresh mountain air surround you. "Starry Nights" at Outdoor Resorts is your friendly retreat in the heart of Gatlinburg. Book now for a warm welcome, outdoor adventures, and the makings of cherished memories!

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

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Lakeside camping near Pigeon Forge guide

Overview

Just 40 minutes outside Knoxville, Pigeon Forge offers access to a stunning mix of lakes, mountain vistas, and forest trails. Score a lakeside campsite on the shores of Lake Douglas, where boating, swimming, and crappie fishing wait just outside the tent. Rustic lakefront spots offer toilets and fire rings. Glampers may prefer the comfort of an on-site cabin rental with showers, kitchens, and wifi. Anglers can make the most of lake camping with a valid Tennessee fishing license, while those looking for excitement in town can catch rides and country music at Dollywood Theme Park. For some new scenery, visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the south of Pigeon Forge for mountains full of hiking trails, waterfalls at Rainbow Falls, and cliff walks at Alum Cave Bluffs. Cherokee National Forest makes for another beautiful day trip, where campers can relax with a picnic or paddle on whitewater.