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.

100% (1 reviews)

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

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Cove Lake State Park

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

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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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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GlampKnox Canvas Campground

5 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! 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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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 As long as the vehicle Does not have an aftermarket lowered profile or entirely overloaded with gear. We offer camping ranging from primitive tent sites, to an actual cabin. Hikers, kayakers, canoes, 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. 11 miles from The Mint Casino!! 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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Camping at Redtail Farm

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Powell, TN

Learn more about this land: Forest, creek side camping in a Tennessee 'holler'. Come relax at our campsite next to a flowing creek and enjoy a nice fire in the fire ring. Great site for car, van, and small RV camping. Composting toilet on site. Primitive campsite, currently no other amenities available. Veteran owned and operated.

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Awakening Adventures

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents42 acres · Grandview, TN

Welcome to our serene and rejuvenating private getaway nestled within 42 acres of forested beauty. The Sanctuary offers an unparalleled experience where nature meets comfort, allowing you and your group to unwind and reconnect with the tranquil surroundings. During the month of July 2024 we are setting up a 100ft Slip-N-Slide for our guests to enjoy and beat the summer heat!! Also we have added multiple tree swings throughout the forest. 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 including the excursions we offer! We look forward to hosting you!

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Caboose Depot

1 site · RV1 acre · Maryville, TN

Learn more about this land:A good spot for the biggest campers. 50amp electric. Close to Cades Cove and the Tail of the Dragon. 32 miles to Knoxville . 50 miles to Gatlinburg. 42 miles to Pigeon Forge. 48 miles to sugar lands visitor center. 45 miles to Dollywood. Camping from October through May.

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Over The Hill Farm

2 sites · RVs21 acres · Maryville, TN

Magestic 21 acre farm with mountain views. Single campsite far off the road with outdoor dining table, fire ring, water, sewer, and 50 amp electrical service. Near to all that Maryville has to offer. Maryville College is 10 minutes away. About 20 minutes from Townsend (the peaceful side of the Smokies). 55 minutes from Pigeon Forge and the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Knoxville airport is 25 min away.

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Happy Hippie Camp

1 site · RV1 acre · Sevierville, TN

The site is a private lot nestled in a beautiful little spot outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 6 miles to Pigeon Forge Parkway 8 miles to Sevierville Parkway 13 miles to Gatlinburg There are water, electric and sewage hook ups. Wifi is available. We have a great little setup of 4 chairs and solar lights surrounding a fire pit, a picnic table with an umbrella, and a 4' connect four and Corn Hole boards. There are no bathrooms or shower.

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Hickory Grove Homestead

1 site · Lodging11 acres · Maryville, TN

Nestled on the last 11 acres of the historic Davis farm, our property offers a unique glimpse into the past. The farmhouse stands gracefully by the road, while a tranquil wooded expanse stretches behind it. A sprawling fallow pasture is home to the weathered charm of the old hay barn. The woods offers an array of Hickory, Oak, Walnut, Persimmon and various other varieties of trees, creating a harmonious natural setting. A mesmerizing vista of the Smokey Mountains unfolds across the pasture, a scene frequented by deer, rabbits, geese, and a symphony of birds. Your stay here offers more than just relaxation – it's an opportunity to engage in nature's classroom. Spend quality time identifying trees, plants, and birds while soaking in the serenity of the surroundings. You can enjoy a campfire, walking around the property and enjoying the view of the mountains and maybe catch a glimpse of the wildlife living in the area. The homestead has chickens and ducks free ranged in the daytime to enjoy watching. We are centrally located within about 30 minutes if you choose to visit Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge or the City of Knoxville for more traditional attractions.

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Patrick's Point River Camp

71 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 or 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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Wingnut Holler

10 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Philadelphia, TN

Set in quiet, Philadelphia, Tennessee, no city lights or traffic noise. Minutes from the Lost Sea and Cherohala National Forest, guests can enjoy lavender, a garden, goats, cats, dogs, and a winding, walking path. This is a small Homestead and start up for a wild life rescue, rehabilitation and zoo. The property is a work in progress.

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.