Top 10 RV Parks Near the Knoxville, TN Area

Top 5 reasons why it is a fun place to visit:

1. Stroll the Market Square
2. Visit the Ijams Nature Center
3. Visit the Tennessee Theater
4. Check out the Sunsphere Tower
5. Visit the Knoxville Zoo

List of top ten RV Parks in the Knoxville, TN area:

(Disclaimer: information is a compilation of researched info as published online and does not necessarily reflect the experience or opinion of the author)

The RV parks have been ranked and are listed from “Most Recommended” to “Least Recommended” based on reviews, feedback, amenities, and preference. Cost was not the primary ranking driver.

Please note that weekend RV families with children might have different needs than full-time RV “snowbirds”.

1. Little Arrow Outdoor Resort

This park is tucked away in the Smoky Mountain Mountains, and is surrounded by majestic wilderness. There are many fun activities, such as hiking, tubing, biking, wine tasting and more. If one is interested in glamping, there are some cute cabins and tiny homes for rent, as well.

What makes this park unique?

There are buddy sites available for luxury sites. These sites have two hookups, an outdoor pavilion and an outdoor sink. This park is about 45 minutes away from Knoxville. There are sites that are located right on the Little River (they are more pricey, but worth it).

2. Mountaineer Campground

This park is located about ½ mile from the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and is a great homebase for those who want to hike and explore that area. The family atmosphere makes it for a nice and relaxing stay.

What makes this park unique?

This park has a beautiful location, clean bathrooms and tranquil environment. The sites are grass, gravel or concrete and there are even three cabins with a kitchen and bath for those who would like to use this park for a family get-together and don’t want to share the RV. There is also great trout fishing there.

3. Whispering River RV Resort

Located only 35 minutes from Knoxville, this park is a true oasis for weary travelers or a great choice for your “home away from home”.

What makes this park unique?

This park is on 40 acres of land with thousands of feet of waterfront on Little River. There are pull-through, pull-in and back-in sites available. Note: max RV length is 45 feet.

4. Little River Campground

“Little River Campground is located directly off 321 on your way to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, the Cades Cove Entrance.  We are 30 minutes to Dollywood and Pigeon Forge, 30 minutes to Gatlinburg and 35 minutes to the University of Tennessee Ball games.” (Source: https://www.littlerivercampground.com/)

What makes this park unique?

There is great fishing right off the Little River, with amazing trout; this river can also be enjoyed for tubing. The sites have mature trees and there is also a small store for anything you might have forgotten to grab prior to your arrival.

5. Raccoon Valley RV Park

This is a beautiful Escapees park, only 17 minutes from Knoxville, with nature all around and with a little creek. Whether you have a campfire or stargaze, this park is a great location to connect with nature and to go hiking in the Great Smokies.

What makes this park unique?

Friendly staff, clean park and amenities to keep you comfortable. This park is a wonderful place to spend a great time recharging.

6. Townsend/Great Smokies KOA

“One of the premier campgrounds in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, the Townsend/Great Smokies KOA offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lush forests. Nestled up against the Little River, this campground provides a great setting for relaxing, putting your feet up and enjoying nature after a hard day of hiking, fishing or exploring the local area.” (Source: https://koa.com/campgrounds/townsend-great-smokies/)

What makes this park unique?

This KOA has wonderful amenities and is in a great location, in nature with access to the Smokies. There are also many tent sites and cabins available.

7. Volunteer Park Family Campground

Located 15 minutes from Knoxville, this park is tucked away in nature, with mature trees all around. Come enjoy a campfire, smores and some quiet time with your family!

What makes this park unique?

This park is close to several popular hikes, so one can use this park as a homebase and take day trips to all these hikes, such as Triple Falls Trail, Burnt Mill Loop, Injun Creek Trail, Stella Morre Collier Loop, or River Bluff Loop. Note: RV max length is 45 feet.

8. Lazy Daze Campground

This is what the park owners say: “Lazy Daze Campground is located in the heart of beautiful Townsend, Tennessee, nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains. Our 3.5 acre campground offers 72 RV campsites and all the amenities you’d expect from a quality campground.

We’re convenient to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Highway 129 (The Dragon).  Come experience the tranquility and splendor of Lazy Daze Campground in Townsend, the quiet side of the Smokies.” (Source: https://www.lazydazecampground.com/)

What makes this park unique?

This is a little nice campground by the creek, with clean restrooms and basic amenities. However, the sites are pretty close together and sometimes, the booking causes issues.

9. Big Meadow Family Campground

“Nestled between the stunning Great Smoky Mountains and the Little River sits the refuge you’ve been waiting for. Since 1995, this historic farmland now serves as the setting for the new memories you’ll share with your family and friends.” (Source: https://www.bigmeadowcampground.com/)

What makes this park unique?

This park is clean, friendly and laid-back. This park was also awarded Best Campground of Tennessee in 2006. In 2013 and 2019, this park also received National Campground Awards. It’s a family-friendly place with nature all around.

10. Clinton/Knoxville North KOA

This KOA is super nice, with helpful and friendly staff, all the classic amenities and close access to all the urban/metro conveniences of Knoxville.

What makes this park unique?

“The convenience of I-75 is just beyond your campsite, but you’d hardly know it at this peaceful campground in eastern Tennessee. Even the biggest rigs can set up with ease, thanks to easy-on, easy-off access and large, level Pull-Thru RV Sites. Four Deluxe Cabins, Two Camping Cabins, (one pet friendly $) Tent Sites and Premium Tent Sites are available.

Enjoy the spacious swimming pool, 12 X 12-foot wading pool for toddlers, exercise room, expanded playground, volleyball, horseshoes and cornhole. A full kitchen and covered pavilion are great for groups, with picnic tables seating up to 80. Visit the Museum of Appalachia, a mile away.

The pristine beauty of Norris Lake and the renowned trout-fishing waters of Clinch River are 5 miles away. You’re 15 minutes from the University of Tennessee and the Knoxville metro area. The Great Smoky Mountains are 40 minutes away.” (Source: Clinton Knoxville KOA)

Note: Max RV length is 80 feet.

TIPS TO GET TO KNOXVILLE

Knoxville, Tennessee is a large city in the northeast area of the state. It’s close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Several interstates bring you to Knoxville: when traveling from Chattanooga, one can take the I-75 all the way to Knoxville. Coming from the North, I-75 also takes you straight to Knoxville.

The I-81 goes from the Northeast and the I-40 or the US-74 are the roads that one can take when traveling from the East.