While rated as moderate, the Porters Creek Trail is one of the most kid-friendly in the Smokies. The total distance is about 4.5 miles, and can take about three and a half hours to traverse. This hike is tremendously serene, affording views of glistening streams and lush forestation. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of some beautiful, blossoming wildflowers.
Stone Door Trail in South Cumberland State Park is an awesome place to check out. A portion of this trail is paved, making it easy to bring the whole family. Featuring the beautiful Laurel Falls in the same area, there is so much to see and explore at this southern Tennessee area. Get ready to be amazed as you stand on the edge of these massive cliffs!
Laurel Falls is one of the easier hikes of the stunning Great Smoky Mountains. The roundtrip length of this trail is 2.3 miles and it has a total elevation gain of only 314 feet. Laurel Falls has been a much-loved hiking destination since the 1960s. While the hike itself is easy and good for all ages, it’s suggested to keep a close eye on the little ones as there can be some significant drop-offs in certain areas. The 80-foot waterfall is truly a sight to behold once you arrive. Bring a camera, because you’ll want to snap a photo of this stunning natural wonder.
Fall Creek is Tennessee’s largest and most popular state park. Spread across 26,000 acres of natural beauty, you’ll discover everything from gorges and waterfalls, to glimmering streams while hiking here. While there are some more difficult overnight trails for the more experienced, there are also day hikes available for those with less experience. With over 34 miles of trails, children can not only comfortably get an up-close look at nature, but engage in educational activities as well.
At Long Hunter, you’ll find over 20 miles of hiking trails, ranging in difficulty and terrain. There is a self-guided paved arboretum trail for those with a baby in a stroller looking for something less physically-intensive. There’s also the famous 5.5-mile Volunteer Trail that moves along the lakeshore. Keep in mind that pets are not permitted at all of the trails in the park! Your family is going to love this one.
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Fill up your human fuel tank at Harvey’s Pirate Drive In, an unfussy eatery serving up classic breakfast offerings and family-oriented service. You’ll need your energy for a long day of trail riding. And don’t worry—there won’t be any real pirates here to make you walk the plank!
There’s no end to off-roading activities here. This park has been the site for an abundance of large-scale events, including outdoor concerts, festivals, camping, competitions, and of course, trail riding. Inside you’ll find a huge variety of trails for all stages of riding, each equipped with unique challenges. The system creates a complex network of overlapping trails, which means you can make your journey as long as you want. Pack a lunch and enjoy alfresco dining at the picnic area in the park.
Head back south to Jasper, where tasty food awaits you at Nickajack BBQ & Outdoors. Here you’ll find some of the best barbecue in the area, along with favorites like pizza, nachos, burgers, and fries. And make sure you save room for dessert—their cheesecakes are just as delicious as they look!
Once you’ve eaten your fill, clean up at the Quality Inn & Suites, just off Interstate 24. Every room comes equipped with all the home-away-from-home luxuries you need, including free Wi-Fi and plushy beds. There’s also plenty of large vehicle parking on site. Don’t forget to grab a free breakfast!
Before you wrap up your adventure, head to Chattanooga to visit the awe-inspiring Ruby Falls. You’ve probably never seen anything quite like this in your life. This 145-foot waterfall is underground and located within Lookout Mountain. Thousands of visitors flock to these falls every year to witness their magnificence. Electric lights have been installed around the falls, to make them glow even more impressively.
]]>Seasoned trail runners looking for a new challenge should head to the roughly eight-mile out-and-back Ramsey Cascades Trail. Rated as difficult, this strenuous trail climbs gradually until the last mile, where it sharply ascends to an amazing payoff—a beautiful view of the waterfalls. Going back down you’ll challenge your muscles even more to ensure you don’t lose your footing. It’s by far one of the best trails in the Smoky Mountains, and makes for an epic running experience.
Short and sweet, this under-one-mile trail leads directly to a lovely waterfall and rolling views of the hilly terrain. If you’re wanting to up the challenge, there are other inter-looping trails that can extend your run by several miles. It’s a desirable spot for those just getting into trail running, with few challenges and relatively easy terrain. Plus, you don’t have to work too hard or too long for the rewarding views.
If you love the thought of a trail run but don’t want to commit your entire day to one, head to the Benton Falls Trail. This easy 1.5-mile trail takes you to the gorgeous Benton Falls, where you can enjoy the view before your return. The hike itself is fairly simple, but after a recent rain you’ll want to use extra caution. However, if you want to see the falls at their finest, you’ll want to explore this trail after a decent rainfall. Either way, you’re guaranteed to get a good run, falls or no falls.
This 1.3-mile trail is also one of most scenic spots for trail running. You’ll glimpse multiple waterfalls as you’re rushing through, along with beautiful foliage (especially in the fall months), wildlife, and a river to make your run more enjoyable. The trail itself is relatively simple, no confusing markings or strenuous challenges. If you’re just getting into trail running, this is your spot.
This 11-mile loop travels throughout Cades Cove, a historic area known for its breathtaking scenery and wildlife sightings. The park features a one-way, unpaved road that’s open to vehicles, but is closed to all but foot traffic and bicycles before 10 a.m. every Wednesday and Saturday morning. You won’t find much elevation change throughout the park, though there are a few slight hills, dips, and tight turns to add challenge to the distance. If you get there early, not only will you avoid traffic, you also have your best chance at spotting black bear, turkey, and deer.
]]>The name gives its away—this is Tennessee’s premier birdwatching spot. The park is situated directly in the migratory path of its many visiting feathered friends. It’s also a prime breeding ground where visitors can find many nesting species. Purple martins and tree swallows are among the most commonly-sighted birds, but barn owls, sparrows, and singing birds are also quite popular. If possible, plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon for the best viewing opportunities.
Aside from the Aviary Education Center, this park also features plenty of birding excitement. November through April offers glimpses of wintering waterfowl, including ring-necked and canvasback duck. During the fall and spring, head through the forest along Otter Creek Road and Lake Trail for migratory birdwatching.
Known for its eagle sightings (there’s even an Eagle Festival!), this park also plays home to migratory birds during the fall. White pelicans, cormorants, wood ducks, warblers, and wading birds are among the most popular denizens here. The park features a variety of habitats to attract a diverse bird population, including a lake and wooded areas. You can catch glimpses of birdlife from the visitor center, but Keystone Trail offers some of the best views.
Dubbed an Important Bird Area (IBA) by the Audubon Society, this area is essential for migrating neotropical birds. Flycatchers, gnatcatchers, warblers, and waterthrush are commonly sighted in the spring and summer months. A number of warbler species can be seen if you climb to the higher elevations of the park. In total, over 130 species of birds have been spotted in the park over the course of a year. Use the park’s variety of hiking trails to enjoy your bird spotting adventure.
Due to its mix of open flatlands and wooded acreage, this site is a true sanctuary for the feathered variety. Migrating species are commonly spotted here, including thrushes, flycatchers, warblers, and tanagers. Visitors have largely reported great horned owl and barred owl sightings, along with red-shouldered hawks that nest in the spring. Year-round you might see wild turkeys, bluebirds, woodpeckers, kingfishers, and nuthatches, while a variety of other species appear on a seasonal basis.
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This over 880-acre state park has everything going for it: beautiful river views, waterfalls, trails, and plenty of outdoor sporting opportunities. The park’s unique position at the confluence of three rivers (Caney Fork, Rocky, and Collins) has created myriad scenic areas for visitors to enjoy, including the awe-inspiring Caney Fork River Gorge. Fans flock to the area for fishing and kayaking, as well as year-round camping to get back in touch with nature. If you’re planning on visiting, you might want to spend a couple days here to get the most from your visit.
The gorge is an absolute must-see if you visit, and the Upstream Trail is the easiest way to get there. This moderate-rated trail is just half a mile one-way, starting from the Twin Falls Overlook parking area. This area of the gorge is a popular place for swimming, but it can be risky. You’ll need to leave the same way you came, making your round-trip about a mile.
Inside the park you’ll find the remnants of frontier settlements and old cemeteries. Hop on the two-mile Collins River Connector trail to get there, either by foot or by mountain bike. The trail itself isn’t too difficult, and is a must if you crave a bit of history with your visit.
Rock Island State Park is a camper’s paradise year-round. Take your pick of cabin rentals or traditional campsites for RVs or tents. Both campgrounds within the park offer Wi-Fi and bathhouses with hot water. They also offer treated firewood available for purchase on site.
This natural area is just a few miles away from Rock Island State Park and is named for the discovery of a giant sloth skeleton back in 1811. The bones are on display at the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia, but visitors can explore the natural area where they were found. The cave itself has plenty of historical significance as a saltpeter mine in the 19th century, and contains several well-preserved artifacts from its heyday. The cave spans nearly 10 miles of passage, making it one of longest mapped caves in the state. If you want to visit the cave, you’ll need to contact Rock Island State Park as access is limited.
Grab some local flavors at Foglight Foodhouse, a Cajun-inspired eatery with Southern roots and plenty to fill every appetite. Inside the rustic exterior you’ll find fresh seafood, jambalaya, and steaks, all served up with a side of Creole soul. It’s warm, cozy, and friendly, and just might become a must-stop anytime you’re in the area.
Just 30 minutes separates Rock Island State Park and Cumberland Caverns, a tourism hotbed that takes visitors deep underground to explore lost secrets. You can tour the caverns by day or book an overnight excursion, giving you an opportunity to traverse its 32 miles of passages. Underground waterfalls, rock formations, and fun events await you.
]]>This state forest boasts a whopping 24,686 acres of space, located 10 miles from Chattanooga. Prentice Cooper is an incredibly popular spot for activities like camping, rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and bird watching. There are also roads throughout the massive forest designed just for OHVs, including ATVs and motorcycles. Remember to remain on these designated roads and follow the rules! Roads permitting motorized vehicles are marked with a Jeep symbol. Stay at a steady 25 miles per hour while you’re here and enjoy exploring the beautiful Prentice Cooper State Forest.
This 500-acre off-road park is situated in the mountains of south central Tennessee. The park is “dedicated to creating the ultimate off road experience,” according to its website. There are over 120 trails available here at a variety of levels of difficulty. There’s also a camping space to stay the night, which includes RV hookups and bathrooms. Rates go at $15 per person and children under 12 enter free!
Novices be prepared: This park is known for having some of the most challenging trails in the region. Across 500 acres, you’ll find 45 trails ranging in difficulty from level 1 to 5. Golden Mountain is accessible to ATVs, motorcycles, Jeeps, trucks, and UTVs. The terrain here varies, from rock climbing to regular trail riding, and you can also expect loose hill climbs as well as technical rock crawling.
Foxfire Mountain is designed for thrill seekers of all types, not just the off-roading lovers. This park has zip lines, ropes courses, and swing bridges, in addition to their excellent off-roading opportunity. Now, this is a bit different than some of the other off-roading adventures available in Tennessee. At Foxfire, you can participate in a guided tour called the Bear Crawler Adventure of the Smoky Mountains. Explore in an eight-wheeled ATV on off-road trails, ripping through water and zipping among trees. Perfect for those not quite ready to drive their own ATV!
Covering an impressive 72,000 acres and providing over 300 miles of trails, Windrock Park is an off-roading haven! Riders are welcome to utilize ATVs, side-by-sides, dirt bikes, mountain bikes, Jeeps, buggies, and trucks at this park. If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can rent an OHV right on site! If you’re spent from a day of adventure, you can stay the night at one of their cabins, RV sites, or primitive campsites.
*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.
]]>This scenic hike travels nearly eight miles up to the summit of Mount Le Conte and is fairly difficult, but the first leg of the trip to famed Arch Rock is just challenging enough to get your blood racing. This portion of the out-and-back trail parallels beautiful babbling creeks and features a shady canopy. You’ll traverse a gentle grade all the way to Arch Rock, where the trail winds its way under the rock up a steep set of steps. Enjoy the views, then make your way back down the often-slippery steps and enjoy a mostly downhill trek back to the to the trailhead.
Located in scenic Cades Cove in the Smoky Mountains, Abrams Falls takes you five miles round-trip. The trail features moderately difficult terrain. Given its location within Cades Cove, this hike is arguably one of the most scenic in the area, especially with the rewarding views of Abrams Falls at the turnaround point.
If you want an energizing hike but don’t have much time, the .8-mile River Trail at Burgess Falls is calling your name. This gorgeous trail is one of the state’s most popular, given its breathtaking views of four lovely waterfalls along the way. It’s also a well-known birding spot so you’ll have plenty of company on your trek.
Views of the waterfalls and gorge are reason enough to make a trip here, but it’s also a prime spot for a somewhat challenging hike. There are two routes to take you down into the gorge, a one-mile trail and a 1.5-mile trail. Each one has steep descents, raised tree roots, boulders, and other challenges to put your muscles to the test.
Located in Percy Warner Park, this 4.5-mile loop is a favorite among hikes and runners alike. Set against a wooded backdrop, there’s little to distract you from enjoying a peaceful walk through the woods. There are plenty of scenic spots, steep ascents and descents, uneven terrain, and other challenges that make for an enjoyable yet productive hike.
]]>The Tennessee River near Knoxville, Tennessee, is a known as a jet skiing oasis. The length of the river itself, stretching from Tennessee to Alabama, Mississippi, and Kentucky, provides for incredible spurts of movement that smaller lakes lack. Since 1997, the Tennessee River 600 has utilized the river and its popularity with jet skiers to raise money benefitting children’s hospitals and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
Norris Lake spreads across the Anderson, Campbell, Claiborne, Grainger, and Union counties of Tennessee, and is a frequent jet ski attraction. Several companies provide jet ski rentals and tours, including JBeez Watercraft, Cedar Grove Marina, and Shanghai Marina. Rent by the hour, day, or week.
Dale Hollow Lake was recently awarded the number one spot on Pick a Slip’s “Top Ten Best Houseboating Lakes in North America” list. For jet skiers, it doesn’t get much better than Dale Hollow. Jet along the many miles of shoreline. Stop by during the Fourth of July to take part in the annual celebration. Dale Hollow is also a favorite amongst anglers, so if you’re out on the water take special note to not interrupt their flow.
Watauga Lake in the Appalachian Mountains “enjoys the most stunningly beautiful lake and mountains views in the ‘Volunteer State,’” according to its website. It covers just over 10 miles and is nestled in the mountains, sitting at almost 2,000 feet above sea level. The lake can be difficult to get to, so it usually isn’t very busy, meaning that for the intrepid jet skier, this watery paradise can be yours for the taking. Jet skiing in Tennessee doesn’t get much better than on the Watauga Lake.
This north-central Tennessee reservoir is a popular spot among fishermen and women, but it can be enjoyed thoroughly by jet skiers and boaters as well! Now, this is a commercial lake, which means there are barges coming through on occasion, but guess what that means? Some potential or waves! Rent your ride from JBeez Watercraft.
]]>The Alum Cave Trail is a popular hike, going 2.5 miles to Alum Cave Bluffs and then extending five miles further to just below the summer of Mt. Le Conte. Along the way, you can hike through the narrow tunnel of Arch Rock and stop at a lookout called Inspiration Point. It’s a beautiful trek you won’t forget.
Abrams Falls Trail is a moderately difficult trail, accessible all year in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trail is five miles roundtrip. The titular Abrams Falls is a 20-foot drop waterfall that attracts many hikers—expect the trail to be busy almost any time of year. Be careful as you walk, as there are plenty of roots that could trip up even the most experienced hiker.
Bays Mountain Park is a 3,500-acre nature preserve that is perfect for a day of family fun. This is the largest city-owned park in the state. Bays Mountain boasts a stunning 44-acre lake, a fascinating nature center, and a mind-blowing planetarium theater that the children will love! While here, you’ll also discover over 25 miles of picturesque hiking trails just waiting to be explored. Try out the more strenuous 5.3-mile Fire Tower trail or if you’re looking for an easier trek, go for the one-mile Floating Bridge hike.
The beautiful, 1,700-acre Cumberland Mountain State Park is situated in Cumberland County and is one of the most awe-inspiring places to explore in Tennessee. There you will find several easy to moderate trails excellent for those who aren’t too experienced. The Byrd Creek Trail is two miles-long and is categorized as easy/moderate. For an even easier hike, try the 1.8-mile Pioneer Short Loop. And for something more challenging, give the roughly six-mile Overnight Trail a go.
This state parked is named after a looming old bad cypress tree that once stood on the grounds. The tree was 1,350 years-old but was killed in 1976 when it was struck by lightning. At the state park, you’ll find several hiking trails, including the easy, .3-mile paved Tree Identification Trail. This is excellent for hikers, no matter their level of experience. Not to mention this area affords some of the most scenic views in the state!
]]>There’s never a bad time to visit Rock Island State Park, but winter usually means less busy here. Though too cold to swim, you can still get a good view of the falls and other scenery the park is known for. Cabins are open year-round and offer some of the coziest accommodations you’ll find.
Gatlinburg is undoubtedly the place to be during a Tennessee winter, mainly because of the sheer volume of activities you can enjoy. Camping in a cabin at Imagination Mountain is often much more cost effective than a hotel on the Parkway, plus you get the added bonus of fun games, mini golf, heated salt water pool, movie theater, and a playground—all included in your stay.
Everyone’s favorite forest fire-denouncing bear has its own campground in the Smoky Mountains (how fitting). Each cabin is heated to keep you warm on those cold mountain nights, in addition to fire rings and grills to create the authentic camping experience. Expect a chilly trip in the winter, and possibly some snow.
This cold weather camping experience is sure to keep you warm. The campground features an indoor hot tub and heated cabins to help you defrost from your day’s hike or other outdoor adventure. Situated atop Cumberland Plateau, you can expect some of the best views in the state.
Open all year, the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA is nestled into the foothills of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The large deluxe cabin is beautiful and overlooks Patriot Park. You’ll find two bunk bed sets, one full sleeper sofa, one queen bed, one full bath and half bath, and a full kitchen to sleep eight people at this spot.
Located near Jamestown, Tennessee, this state park was the first to become a designated Dark Sky Viewing destination. The views of the sky alone make this a worthy winter camping destination, especially since it gets dark early to extend your viewing pleasure. Hiking and fishing abound at this park, so come prepared to take advantage. Perhaps the best part is that their winter cabin rentals also include a fireplace to keep you toasty all night long.
This area sees its fair share of snow each winter, so make sure you pack warmly. After all, it just isn’t the same winter camping experience without a blanket of snow surrounding your cabin, right? Each cabin comes complete with full bathroom, kitchen, wood burning stove, and heat. The park has recently had some flood damage, but you can still enjoy most of the trails and the never-ending supply of gorgeous scenery.
Peaceful, calm, and beautiful, Natchez Trace State Park is a nature-lover’s paradise. Surrounded by gorgeous lake views, every cabin comes completely outfitted to ease your stay. While you’re there, you can enjoy a relaxing bike ride, hike, or horse trails, or enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant.
The Gatlinburg KOA is a 16-acre park not far from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Enjoy hiking trails and beautiful scenery at this campsite. For comfortable sleeping, snuggle up in their deluxe cabin. The cabin has two beds, a full bathroom and partial kitchen, and an expanded patio.
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Gatlinburg is a gateway to the Smoky Mountains, so it’s only fitting they have an epic camping store to supply its thousands of campers. Step inside the lodge-style outpost and you’ll find an array of tents, backpacks, apparel, and other camping gear to complete your experience. Even if you’re not camping anytime soon, the store itself warrants a visit. Kids can enjoy the swinging rope bridge, bear cave, and massive fireplace while waiting for parents to shop. Some of their brands include Osprey, Chaco, Black Diamond, and Camelbak, among others.
Get all your basic camping essentials in a single stop. Cumberland Transit features some of the best brands your campsite will ever see, including ENO, Yeti, and Marmot. They’ve been in business for nearly half a century, and know the area well enough to offer real expertise and knowledge on how to get the most from your purchase.
Camping doesn’t come cheap, especially if you’re starting to amass your armory of sleeping gear, cookware, and other essentials. Four Bridge Outfitters seeks to change the way people camp by offering gently-used outdoor gear for far lower than retail prices. Think of it as a consignment store for camping stuff—they get new items in every week from their consignors so there’s always something fresh to find on their shelves. They also stock a wide array of brand new gear, too.
Dedicated to all things outdoors, this store features some of the best in gear and apparel for all types of nature-based adventures. Locals love them because they can always find just what they need for a perfect weekend in the woods, everything from basic tents or hammocks to cookware, pocket showers, and waterproof bags. Some of their bestselling brands include Big Agnes, the North Face, and JetBoil, to name a few.
You’ll score major finds at well below big-box prices at Gear Closet. This camping consignment store always has something new to delight campers. They also accept donated items, which mean even bigger savings for you. For those just getting into camping, stopping here first is a good way to get started without investing a lot (especially if you don’t plan to camp often!). Their inventory changes regularly, but brands like the North Face and ENO have been known to make appearances.
No one knows campers like Coleman, the brand completely dedicated to helping campers have the best possible outdoor experience. The outlet store is brimming with Coleman-branded gear and products for campers of all ages and interest levels. You can score quality tents, lighting, electronics, cookware, and entertainment in a single shopping trip. Plus, Coleman is your headquarters for replacement parts for lighting, tents, air pumps, heaters, and other items.
Take an REI store, downsize it a bit, and you’re left with LifeView Outdoors. Like most good campsites, this store is a bit off the beaten path but it’s well worth the trip. They’ve got one of the best camping selections in the state, hands down. You’ll find all your favorite camping brands, like Black Diamond, Marmot, and Big Agnes, in addition to highly knowledgeable staff who can help you make all your shiny new toys work the way they’re supposed to.
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This 140-acre campground is owned by Malcolm, Barbara, and Greg Johnson. The Johnsons purchased the land in 1994 to make the area a family-friendly campground. They sure succeeded. The Tennessee Campground Association has awarded them with the “Tennessee Campground of the Year” award in years past, as well as several other accolades. Amenities include a climate-controlled bathhouse, laundry area, water park, playground, and a fenced in dog park for your four-legged friends!
This campground features 310 full hookup sites and 70 pull-through sites, each of them with a picnic table. You’ll find bathhouses with AC/heating, laundry rooms, a game room, a basketball court, two swimming pools, a lazy river, and so much more. There are also plenty of neighboring attractions like great restaurants, in case you’re looking for a nice sit-down meal. This site feels like a secluded camping experience, but you’ll have access to modern conveniences—perfect for those with small children!
The North Campground at this recreational park is the family area. From 10 p.m. until 8 a.m., it’s quiet time—great news for those with little kids looking to get to bed at a reasonable hour. There is a half mile of riverside camping with both primitive and 30 amp electrical/water sites. For primitive camping, it’s only $7 a person per night, and kids under 12 stay free! Check out their canoe rentals for an adventurous day on the water.
Situated in West Tennessee on 1,400 acres of land, Chickasaw State Park has a variety of camping options. There are 13 cabins, designed to sleep six people, outfitted with fireplaces and tucked away among beautiful pines. There are also 52 RV sites and 29 tent sites. Amenities include picnic tables, grills, bathhouses, and a playground.
The main campground area at Rock Island has 50 sites RVs and trailers, and 10 sites for tent-only camping. The tent-only campsites feature lantern hangers, fire rings, charcoal grills, and picnic tables. Activities at the state park include boating and swimming in Center Hill Lake, birding, picnicking, hiking, and more. For those looking to use Center Hill Lake for boating purposes: Be sure to check the conditions online before you head out. During active spill periods at the Great Falls Dam, guests are not permitted to access certain areas.
]]>Bear Cove Village in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, offers RV sites and cabin camping all year round. The recipient of the 2005 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, Bear Cove sites include free Wi-Fi, free cable, after hours’ registration, hot showers, two pools, playground, dog park, mail service, a fishing pond, and much more. Good Sam Club members enjoy a 10 percent discount on nightly rates, which differ in price depending on the month. Visit the nearby Dollywood adventure park, Smoky Mountain, and Dixie Stampede Dinner Shows while you’re in town.
The Defeated Creek Park Campground is part of the larger Defeated Creek Park in Carthage, Tennessee, along the Cordell Hull Lake banks. The campground has 155 sites for tents and RVs and electrical and water hook-ups at each site. Amenities include a boat ramp, beach, playground, tennis courts, and an adjacent marina. The lake consists of 12,000 acres and 381 miles of shoreline, with ample opportunity to fish or partake in watersports.
Anchor Down in charming small-town Dandridge, Tennessee, is the recipient of many awards, including Traveler Life’s Reader’s Choice Award, Jefferson County’s Reader’s Choice Award, Good Sam RV Travel and Saving’s Guide Award, and TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence. What makes Anchor Down so wonderful? With over 170 sites in their luxury resort on Douglas Lake, you’ll find a staggering number of amenities, including beach areas, boat ramps, cable, Wi-Fi, full hook-ups, golf cart rentals, paved streets, saltwater kiddie pool, and much more. Rates start at $49 per night and go up depending on what kind of site you prefer.
Cove Creek RV Resort in Sevierville, Tennessee, offers magnificent views of Cove Mountain. Self-styled as an “upscale RV campground,” amenities include gravel and concrete cites, electricity, water and sewer hook-up, luxury clubhouse with free coffee, game room, swimming pool, catch and release fishing pond, resort activities and site ownership opportunities. Choose from nightly or monthly pricing options.
Camp on over 200 acres at Deer Run RV Resort in Crossville, Tennessee. Amenities include access to the 25-acre lake, basketball, beach area, cable, chapel, convenience store, deli, horseshoe pits, lake fishing, lakefront cabins, playground, swimming pool, and much more. Rates differ between full hook-up RV sites and no hook-ups, with daily, weekly, monthly, and holiday options. Military members and Good Sam Club members receive a discount on daily and holiday rates.
]]>About 45 minutes Northwest of Knoxville lays one of the largest rock climbing locales in the state. The sandstone cliffs offer a beautiful climbing experience, and numerous campsites help climbers turn their experience into a days-long trip. Nearly 350 climbing routes await you, mostly sport climbs but with a few trad and top ropes mixed in. Among the favorites here are Gunslinger, Whippersnapper, and Pocketeer, but in all honesty, you just can’t go wrong.
Just outside of Chattanooga, you’ll find some of the best boulder climbs in the Southeast. The site has hosted the Triple Crown Bouldering competition and offers one of the most versatile climbing areas you’ll find. With nearly 250 total climbing routes, there’s something for every skill level.
If you’re looking for trad climbing, the Tennessee Wall is your go-to destination. Featuring some of the best trad climbs in the Southeast, climbers can journey along beautiful sandstone covered by hundreds of climbing routes. Most of the crag is single-pitch, but parts of the wall are multi-pitch if you’re looking for extra challenges. Due to its southbound face, the winter and fall are your best climbing times to avoid the miserable summer heat.
If you want to add a little extra adventure to your climb, head to Mizell Bluffs on Tellico Lake, where you can access your climbing spot by kayak or by trail. There are only two climbing routes here, both trad, but the area is usually not overcrowded and makes for a more enjoyable climb. Its west-facing wall makes it an ideal spot to enjoy the sunset, a well-deserved treat for completing your climb.
As if the name wasn’t enticing enough, Castle Rock is among the most scenic sport climbing spots in the state. With over 40 total climbing routes (a few trads are sprinkled in here), this large orange bluff is the premier winter climbing destination. Peak climbing season here is November, but the rest of the year is usually fairly quiet.
]]>This archery training haven has a pro shop on site that specializes in competitive archery. They carry some of the best-in-class brands like Hoyt and Bowfinger to outfit you with all the right gear and accessories. This place is especially invaluable to beginner archers since they offer personal instruction and can help recommend the best products suited to your skill level.
The perfect spot for bow hunter and target shooters alike, you’ll find everything you need for a day in the field at Taylor’s Archery and Outdoors. Their fans love them because they almost always have what they’re looking for in stock without having to wait for it to be ordered. And for rainy or cold days (or any other time, really), you can perfect your shot at their indoor range.
Middle Tennessee has a huge community of bow hunters, and U Need It Archery is their one-stop shop. Their retail area features brands like Mission, Mathews, and a wide variety of parts and accessories to keep your bow working and looking like new. They also offer an indoor range for archers of all ages and skill levels. If you need it, chances are they have it.
No matter what you need for your bow, you can get it here. You can get your bow serviced while you shop for all the parts and accessories you need. If they don’t have it for you, they’ll get it for you as quickly and inexpensively as possible.
Folks love this family-owned shop because of their dedication to archers of all types. They’re fellows archers, too, and they know what high-quality equipment and services look like. This means you get the best possible experience from your investment, while also helping out a small business.
Here you’ll find some of the best names in archery, including Hoyt, Mission, and Mathews. They focus not just on selling you the right bow, but also providing all the servicing and maintenance your investment needs. If you don’t live close by, they can ship you whatever you need.
Their customers love the reasonable prices and high-quality gear at Bowhunter’s Pro Shop. They build custom strings and arrows give you a truly unique experience that suits your abilities, in addition to a full-service archery repair shop.
Though primarily a gun shop, this place is equally skilled in helping fellow archers pursue their passion. They offer a wide range of bows in all sizes for all ages, along with all the accessories you’ll need in the field.
Archery repair and service is what makes their shop stand out from the rest. When you need a tuning, repair, or accessory installation, even if you didn’t buy your stuff from them, you won’t want to go anywhere else. They also offer bow sales and produce custom strings.
Once you pick up your new bow or accessories here, you can try them out on-site at their indoor range. This place is kid-friendly too, so you can turn your visit into a family adventure.
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