The best camping near Natural Tunnel State Park

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

100% (2 reviews)
100% (2 reviews)

As tall as a city high rise, this natural cave has been attracting sightseers for over 100 years.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Natural Tunnel State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Book externally

Public campgrounds in the park
Book externally

Stay at a public campground in Natural Tunnel State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Natural Tunnel State Park

99%
(93)

Stormbrew Farm

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · Abingdon, VA
Nestled in the breathtaking Appalachian Mountains of Southwest Virginia, , hens, ducks, bees, Great Pyrenees, and cats pastorally roam over 18 acres of rolling farmland and forest. Experience our favorite parts of Stormbrew Farm through a primitive camping experience. Learn more about this land:An agrarian dream- a literal field of possibility. With 18 acres to choose from you may find yourself sleeping along the lazy Fifteenmile Creek, atop a hill under Virginia stars, or even set up with pastoral views of hens and Great Pyrenees dogs. The roadfront side of our property offers level terrain for pull-behind trailers, while vehicles (preferably 4WD) and tent campers can travel all the way back to the creek. Feeling froggy? Ford the stream and camp in the large field on the other side. Be sure to mind the animals and fields, as this is a working farm. One mile down the road from the farm is the Virginia Creeper Trail, renowned for biking, but as a multi-use trail, you can also enjoy walking, running, horseback riding, fishing, cross country skiing, and geocaching. South Holston Lake is only minutes away by vehicle, with two public access boating ramps 10 to 20 minutes away. For a drink by the water, head to Abingdon Vineyards- only 10 minutes away. Access to the Appalachian Trail is only 20 minutes away in Damascus. We became caretakers of this lovely property in June of 2021, moving from our existing farm, 45 minutes away. When we got it, it was a blank slate of a hayfield, and we have spent the summer laying infrastructure so that we may grow our cut-flower, honey, and vegetable business.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25.50
 / night
97%
(35)

Happy Camper Trl w/Theater Hot-Tub

28 sites · Lodging, Tents25 acres · Jonesville, VA
About this space Enjoy amped up camping at this at this posh mountain escape! Here you can reconnect with nature outdoors while luxury furnishings and full amenities provide all the comforts of home inside a spacious, pet-friendly camper. Add in an epic outdoor entertaining area featuring a theater with 120” screen, hot tub, griddle, firepit, and deck and you have the ultimate camping adventure. Bonus – the site is located on 25 acres in the VA mountains with views of KY and TN! The space This pet-friendly, luxury camping experience is ideal for everything from weekend getaways to extended mountain sojourns. The camper’s interior is packed with all the necessities required for a comfortable stay: a full kitchen with Keurig coffee machine, hot and cold-water sink, microwave, refrigerator, stove, oven; large dining booth; comfy seating area; full bathroom with shower tub combo; 2 private bedrooms; A/C, heat; a flat screen Smart TV with streaming capabilities; and expansive windows that fill the interior with natural light. Outdoors is the ultimate entertainer’s paradise. Relax in the hot tub and enjoy theatre under the stars on the 120” elevated screen that can be seen from the entire site. Start mornings off with coffee and the smell of bacon sizzling on the outdoor griddle and end the days with a cold one from the kegerator. Every guest receives all the fixings needed for S’mores to roast on the firepit, and complimentary wood is provided that can also be used to cook up delicious meals on the classic campsite grill. With views for miles, wildlife sightings, and proximity to major area attractions, a stay here is without a doubt the best way to effortlessly experience the exciting world of “camping with benefits”! IMPORTANT: Once You have booked a reservation with us, immediately call our our receptionist Tammi at 812.381.4355 because our system does not integrate with our property management software. This is especially important if you are booking last minute or late in the evening. We may not get your reservation until the next morning and you will be locked out of the space. So immediately after booking a reservation, call Tammi so we can ensure it is accessible.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$18
 / night
85%
(72)

Channels Park Edge Campsites

6 sites · RVs, Tents125 acres · Rosedale, VA
Primitive campsites are located within one and a half mile of the Channels State Park entrance. One can hike, bike or drive to the Channels if that's your destination. Beautiful views, forested hiking trails on old logging roads are plentiful on our 125 wooded acres. Wildlife abounds in this remote setting. Other interesting features are nearby salt mines with Civil War history and a nearby farm store, Goshen Homestead, less then 2 minutes away. There you will find firewood for sale, pastured poultry products like eggs and chicken, grass-fed milk meats and cheeses, ferments, dried fruits, baking supply like grains and flour, etc. All organic and non-GMO. You will be sure to find all your breakfast, lunch and dinner needs. The town of Lebanon is about 15 minutes away. Breaks Interstate Park is within an hour drive. Surprisingly, most phones get full service.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
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
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$69.70
 / night
100%
(123)

Farmhouse Gallery & Gardens

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents73 acres · Unicoi, TN
Learn more about this land:You’ll cross the covered bridge (clearance 11’6” ) as you enter our farm, a 73 acre small family farm, nestled in the Buffalo Valley of Northeast TN, and featuring a down home country atmosphere. What makes our farm special are all of the unique extras: a working log cabin blacksmith shop, log cabin art gallery, certified commercial kitchen, lots of watchable wildlife, and walking trails. We have a one acre wildlife pond and a smaller pond fed by springs and Buffalo Creek, which runs through the farm. Our small buffalo herd is pastured not far from the campsites and our friendly peacocks and chickens roam the grounds. We also offer classes in blacksmithing, art, foraging and cooking periodically. We are rural but not remote and are minutes away from state parks, fishing, hiking, rafting and other recreational activities as well as downtown Johnson City and Historic Jonesborough with breweries, shops, and many restaurants. As purveyors of Appalachian culture and cuisine, we invite you to stay a day , or longer, to share our friendly and relaxing small farm atmosphere in the mountains.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$39
 / night
100%
(5)

BelleBrook Acres

8 sites · RVs, Tents17 acres · Bristol, TN
BelleBrook Acres is a 17 acre working farm in the heart of Bristol, TN. Prior to us purchasing this farm it was one of the first dairy farms in Tennessee dating back to 1901 and was an active dairy farm up until about a decade ago. We're located 8 miles from the Bristol Motor Speedway; 7 miles from Osceola Island and the South Holston Dam with hiking & bicycle trails as well as some of the best fishing around; 8 miles from The Pinnacle which is packed full of restaurants and outlet shopping; and 3 1/2 miles from the downtown and State Street where you can literally walk in both Tennessee and Virginia at the same time which is lined with restaurants, escape rooms, a pool hall, comedy club, bars and more! We're centrally located within the city limits and just minutes from anything in Bristol. During your stay at our farm, you'll get to meet our resident welcoming committee comprised of Jasper the donkey, several very friendly cows, goats, chickens, and horses. Our allocated camping area is situated on the far end of the farm and surrounded by several pole barns and an outhouse providing a sense of privacy. You're welcome to hike up through our horse pasture which leads up to an amazing view atop the hillside. (Our animals are all very social, but you would be exploring the property at your own risk of course.) We do offer elopement packages as well and can provide an officiant at no extra charge. All you'll need is a Sullivan County, TN marriage license and we can take care of the rest!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$39.20
 / night

The best camping near Natural Tunnel State Park guide

Overview

About

This natural tunnel was called the Eighth Wonder of the World by William Jennings Bryan. Standing at 10 stories tall, the geological wonder formed over a million years ago. Groundwater bearing carbonic acid percolated up through the limestone, slowly dissolving it. A creek diverted into this underground chasm, further eroding the rock to form the tunnel you see today.

The natural cave is so large, it has served as an active railroad tunnel since 1894. On the 3rd Saturday of every July, the trains stop, allowing park visitors to walk through the 850-foot long tunnel. On other days, you can take a chair lift down to the viewing area at the bottom of the gorge.

The surrounding 900-acre park is great for hiking in solitude. For a stunning view, climb Lovers Leap Trail to the scenic overlook 300 feet above the gorge. Two campgrounds offer sites with electric hook-ups and access to the pool. But the large cabins are awfully tempting, as are the adorable yurts constructed in 2017.

Notable campgrounds

  • Cove View Campground - Offers shaded and sunny sites with electric and water hookups, perfect for tents or RVs up to 38 feet.
  • Lover's Leap Campground - Features back-in sites with electric and water hookups, accommodating tents, pop-ups, and RVs up to 50 feet.
  • Primitive Camping - Provides a rustic experience with tent pads and a common area with a fire ring, for those seeking a more traditional camping adventure.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, as reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance, ensuring your spot in this sought-after natural haven.
  • Consider visiting during the off-peak season for greater availability and a chance to enjoy the park's tranquility.
  • Keep an eye on cancellation policies, as last-minute openings can provide unexpected opportunities for a stay.
  • Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of securing a site during busy times or if the park is fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Natural Tunnel State Park is from May through October, when the chairlift operates and full access to the tunnel is available. Winter offers a unique, serene beauty, but some facilities may be closed, and the chairlift is not operational.

Know before you go

  • Check the park's operating hours, which are from 8am to dusk, to plan your visit accordingly.
  • Be aware that the chairlift and some facilities have seasonal hours or may be closed for maintenance.
  • Accessibility is a priority, with features like an accessible chairlift and designated parking for guests with disabilities.
  • Remember to bring all necessary supplies, as cabins do not provide linens, and amenities vary.
  • Pets are welcome in certain areas, but be prepared to pay an additional fee and follow park regulations.

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Camp Your Way™

Find the perfect site to match your camping style. Explore the largest collection of private campsites, RV parks, cabins, and glamping—including 120,000+ sites you won’t find anywhere else. Explore our maps, filter by your camping style, read real camper reviews, and book directly in our app. Hipcamp is the simplest way to find yourself outside under the stars.

Download the Hipcamp App

© 2024 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved.
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.