The best camping near Cove Lake State Park

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

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With mountain views at every turn, nature lovers will love Cove Lake.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Cove Lake State Park

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Cove Lake Campground

106 sites · RVs, Tents In Cove Lake State Park

from

$20

/ night

Top-rated campgrounds near Cove Lake State Park

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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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Patrick's Point River Camp

68 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents212 acres · Williamsburg, KY

Looking for a quiet peaceful camp on 212 acres in the Appalachians Mountains along side the Upper Cumberland River under a canopy of shade trees? We offer WIFI, hot showers, restrooms, kayaks, shuttle service, hiking trail, horse trail, wildlife stands, electric, water, easy access to the river, 130’ x 100’ covered pavilion, tent camping, cabins, RV sites, and much more. Whether you are looking for a unique swimming hole location, a place to go fishing, kayak access, hiking trails or just a quiet place to enjoy your morning cup of coffee, we promise you will not be disappointed. You may wish to lay in a hammock along the river or under our covered 100 x 130 pavilion. We also have a beautiful creek to explore, very secluded and off the beaten path with lots of wildlife to enjoy. In addition to our relaxing atmosphere, this camp will also give you and your loved ones an incredible view to enjoy throughout your stay. Only 15.0mi via KY-90W by vehicle, 14mi by kayak to Cumberland Falls State Park with many hiking trails. One of the oldest original homesteads in the area, for nearly 150 years this gem has been in the family. We have shared it with many people over the years and would love to share it with you! These beloved woods are the remaining part of the once vast, Patrick homestead-started soon after the Revolutionary War. Our family ties and our roots grow very deeply along this river and these woods-we've been born and raised here and continue to strive to be good stewards of these lands. Pristine woods, trails, river access, and more! Located in the heart of the Appalachian and on the bank of the Upper Cumberland River. A truly tranquil place to enjoy exclusively, or to use as a basecamp for the unlimited adventures possible in this scenic area. Welcome and enjoy!

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Clayton Geneva Memorial Camp Ground

25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · Williamsburg, KY

Thank you for considering Clayton Geneva memorial campground for your camping trip. Please read the entire description including our rules and regulations. Also be sure to view the site map. The gravel driveway to the sites is passable with any vehicle. We offer camping ranging from primitive tent sites, to an actual cabin. We have some construction going on currently on at the main cabin on the property. Construction takes place 9am-5pm daily. A deck & siding is being added. 10/1-11/15 Hikers, Horses and riders welcome, located a couple miles from Daniel Boone National Forrest, seemingly endless trails through some of the most beautiful country. Bring your canoe and kayaks. Located 16 miles from Cumberland Falls State Park. Located 11 miles from Sheltowee Trade Adventure Park. Located 11 miles from Kentucky Splash Water Park. Clayton Geneva Camp Ground began as a retreat for our family since the 70's. My grandparents, Donald Clayton Russell & Jewel Geneva (Davis) Russell, purchased this little piece of heaven to get away from the hustle and bustle of Cincinnati life. Judy was born in a little cabin just down the road. Judy & Don along with many family members have made cherished memories here over the years. We want to share its beauty with you and your family. Guests love staying here "We stayed in Birdsong cabin for the Halloween campout weekend. The cabin was ready for us upon arrival and very clean. We enjoyed the privacy of our covered porch and fire ring. The bird feeders hanging all around the cabin are wonderful to watch all the birds during the day. The community fire ring is close enough to enjoy with other campers, but not to close that we could hear anyone in our cabin. Amber and Michael checked on our needs many times during our stay. They hosted a chili cook-off that we greatly enjoyed and passed out candy to all the kids. Overall a great time and experience. We will stay here again."

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Teamwork D.’s Land

4 sites · Tents150 acres · Somerset, KY

We saw this land and immediately thought this is our Eden and now we want to share it with you.

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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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GlampKnox Canvas Retreat

3 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! Cleaning fee is waived with 3-night reservation. 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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Panther Creek Hideaway

1 site · RV, Tent35 acres · Sevierville, TN

Learn more about this land:Enjoy the quiet at our 35 acre cozy secluded hideaway with a pond. Surrounded by a mature wooded forrest and rolling hills with multiple locations at each sites to pitch a tent.. Close to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg attractions. Note: Pappas Peak is a secluded hilltop and will not accommodate trailers due to the turning radius on the hilltop.

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Rocky Meadows Farm & Recreation

2 sites · RVs, Tents65 acres · Blaine, TN

Rocky Meadows Farm is a beautiful, rural landscape located in Blaine, Tennessee. Formerly the land was used for the cultivation of tobacco, then pastures for grazing cattle. We have now adapted the property to accommodate you with a peaceful camping experience in this history rich area of East Tennessee!Learn more about this land:Rocky Meadows Farm is a beautiful, rural landscape located in Blaine, Tennessee. We have 65 acres for you to enjoy during your visit. Our property has about 20 acres of fields and 45 acres of woods.

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Awakening Adventures

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents42 acres · TN

Welcome to our serene and rejuvenating private getaway nestled within 42 acres of forested beauty. Our property offers an unparalleled experience where nature meets comfort, allowing you and your group to unwind and reconnect with the tranquil surroundings. 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. The latest improvement 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 and running water. Other cooking options include a tripod over the fire and a charcoal grill. A short 10 minute drive to firetower 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. 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! 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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BeeRidges Farms

3 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Clinton, TN

Several campsites and 1 BoonDocker RV space are located on a 30-acre farm with several hiking trails and stunning views from atop the ridge.Enjoy the sounds of an amazing man-made waterfall that flows into a 1-acre pond. Hike the Tranquility Trail and enjoy the native plants of Tennessee. You might even catch glimpses of the different variety of mushrooms during the late Summer and early Fall seasons. We are conveniently located 15 minutes from Oak Ridge and Clinton shopping or 30 minutes from Downtown Knoxville. Enjoy the safe comforts of camping life in the wilderness while still traveling distance from shopping.

The best camping near Cove Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

Nestled in the foothills of the Cumberland Plateau, Cove Lake State Park is surrounded by mountains on all sides. Visitors can follow nature multi-use trails (including an 11-mile section of the Cumberland Trail) through wetlands and woodlands, spend the day fishing or paddling on the lake, take a dip in the Olympic-sized outdoor swimming pool, or simply sit back and enjoy the views. Cove Lake Campground has 100 campsites—all have water and electric hookups and are best-suited for RVs, although there are a handful of tent-only sites.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Booking in advance is recommended and can be done online and up to one year in advance.
Same-day booking is not available online, so you will have to call.
Double-check your dates before booking: There is a non-refundable booking fee.

When to go

Cove Lake State Park is at its most popular in summer when visitors arrive to paddle and boat on the lake. The park is a year-round destination, however, especially for birders who can spot birds all year, including migratory birds such as Canada geese, bald eagles, and sparrows in winter. Also consider fall, when the wooded shoreline puts on a colorful show.

Know before you go

As the lake is shallow, only hard-shelled (not inflatable) canoes or kayaks are permitted.
Visit the seasonal Cove Lake Camp Store for gear, snacks, and other supplies.
A Tennessee fishing license is mandatory for anglers above 13 years of age.
Only certified heat-treated firewood is allowed to enter the park as outside firewood.