RV Campgrounds In Knoxville, TN -- Find RV Parks
35.9606° N, 83.9207° W
Quick Overview
Knoxville sits where the Tennessee River cuts through the Appalachian foothills, creating a landscape that's equal parts mountain charm and Southern city sophistication. This university town offers RV campers a unique blend of outdoor recreation and urban amenities, with the Great Smoky Mountains just an hour's drive southeast and the Cumberland Gap beckoning from the north.
The Knoxville area features several RV campgrounds and parks, with all several being paid facilities that offer various amenities from basic hookups to resort-style accommodations. You won't find free camping options (some available), but the paid parks deliver solid value with full hookups, clean facilities, and convenient access to the city's attractions. Most parks cater to both short-term visitors and extended-stay guests, making this a popular spot for snowbirds and workampers.
From your campsite, you're positioned perfectly to explore Knoxville's revitalized downtown, where the World's Fair Park hosts festivals year-round and the Sunsphere offers panoramic views of the Tennessee Valley. The Tennessee River provides excellent boating and fishing opportunities right in the city, while Ijams Nature Center gives you 315 acres of hiking trails and rock climbing just minutes from downtown. Day trips to Dollywood in Pigeon Forge take about 45 minutes, and the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is less than an hour away.
RV campers here can choose between full-amenity parks with pools and recreation centers or simpler campgrounds that focus on clean, well-maintained sites with reliable hookups. Many parks offer pull-through sites that accommodate big rigs, and several provide monthly rates for extended stays. The proximity to the University of Tennessee means some campgrounds stay busy during football season and graduation periods, but most maintain availability year-round.
Knoxville's moderate climate makes it suitable for camping from March through November, with spring and fall offering the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer brings typical Southern heat and humidity, but the nearby mountains provide cooler escape options. Winter camping is possible but expect occasional freezing temperatures and limited park services.
Our listings below include detailed information about hookup types, amenities, and current rates to help you find the perfect base camp for exploring East Tennessee's mountains and valleys.
Top Rated Dump Stations in Knoxville
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All Dump Stations Near Knoxville
| Station Name | Distance | Rating | Category | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southlake RV Park | 6.2 mi | \u2014 | RV Park | Free |
| Tarbett Mh Park | 9.8 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Hidden Ridge Mobile Home Park | 10.3 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Glampknox Canvas Campground | 10.7 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Raccoon Valley - Escapees RV Parks | 11.3 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Volunteer Park Family Campground | 11.5 mi | \u2014 | RV Park | Varies |
| Poland Creek Camp Ground | 13.7 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Parkview Mobile Home And RV Park | 15.5 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Frank's RV Park | 15.8 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Whispering River RV Resort | 16.3 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
Southlake RV Park
6.2 miTarbett Mh Park
9.8 miHidden Ridge Mobile Home Park
10.3 miGlampknox Canvas Campground
10.7 miRaccoon Valley - Escapees RV Parks
11.3 miVolunteer Park Family Campground
11.5 miPoland Creek Camp Ground
13.7 miParkview Mobile Home And RV Park
15.5 miFrank's RV Park
15.8 miWhispering River RV Resort
16.3 miTraveling to Knoxville by RV
Interstate 40 and Interstate 75 intersect right in Knoxville, making this one of the most accessible RV destinations in East Tennessee. If you're coming from the west, I-40 offers a relatively flat approach through Nashville, while I-75 from the north brings you through the scenic Cumberland Gap region with some moderate hills but nothing too challenging for most RVs.
The most scenic route into Knoxville is Highway 441 from the south, which takes you through Sevierville and past the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This route has some winding sections and steep grades, so check your rig's capabilities before committing to this approach. For big rigs over 35 feet, stick to the interstates.
Fuel stops are plentiful along both major interstates, with several truck stops offering RV-friendly diesel pumps and parking. The Pilot Travel Center on Strawberry Plains Pike (Exit 398 off I-40) is particularly RV-friendly with easy access and a good selection of supplies. For propane fills and RV supplies, Camping World sits right off I-75 at Exit 108.
Downtown Knoxville has several low overpasses and narrow streets, so plan your route carefully if you need to access the city center. Most RV parks are located in the suburbs with better road access. Traffic can be heavy during University of Tennessee game days, particularly around I-40 and I-75, so plan accordingly if you're arriving on football Saturdays in fall.
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Dump Station Costs in Knoxville
RV camping rates in Knoxville typically range from $35-45 per night for basic hookup sites to $55-75 for premium spots with full amenities and river views. Since a portion% of the area's several campgrounds are free and a portion% charge fees, you'll need to budget for nightly rates throughout your stay.
Seasonal pricing varies significantly, with peak rates during University of Tennessee football season (September through November) and spring graduation periods. Summer rates stay moderate despite the heat, while winter offers the best deals with some parks dropping rates by 20-30% for extended stays.
Good Sam and Passport America memberships can save you 10-15% at participating parks, and several campgrounds offer weekly and monthly discounts that make extended stays more affordable. If you're planning to stay a week or longer, always ask about extended-stay rates when making reservations.
Fuel costs in Knoxville run close to national averages, with diesel typically available for competitive prices at the truck stops along I-40 and I-75. Grocery costs at major chains like Kroger and Food City are reasonable, though you'll pay premium prices at convenience stores near tourist areas.
For budget-conscious campers, consider staying at one of the simpler parks outside the immediate city center, where rates can be $10-15 lower per night while still providing easy access to Knoxville's attractions via short drives.
Contact station for pricing details.
Prices may vary. Always confirm with the station before visiting.
What RVers Are Saying About Knoxville
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Best Time to Visit Knoxville by RV
Winter
December - February
30-50°F
Crowds: Low
Best rates available, some amenities limited, occasional freezing temperatures require winterization precautions.
Spring
March - May
50-75°F
Crowds: Medium
Perfect weather for outdoor activities, dogwood blooms, graduation crowds in May increase bookings.
Summer
June - August
70-90°F
Crowds: Medium
Hot and humid but manageable, good availability, river activities popular, AC essential for comfort.
Fall
September - November
45-75°F
Crowds: High
Peak season with football crowds and fall foliage, book early, highest rates especially weekends.
Explore the Knoxville Area
For the best overall experience, I'd recommend staying at one of the parks along the Tennessee River corridor, where you'll get easier access to both downtown attractions and outdoor recreation. Several campgrounds offer river views and direct access to boat launches, which is a huge plus if you're traveling with watercraft.
Boondockers won't find free camping options within the city limits, but you can find some dispersed camping opportunities in the Cherokee National Forest about 45 minutes southeast of town. The Ocoee River area offers several primitive sites, though you'll need to drive back to town for supplies and dump station access.
The best activity from most campgrounds is exploring the Tennessee River Greenway, a paved trail system that runs for miles along the riverbank and connects several parks and attractions. It's perfect for biking, walking, or jogging, and many sections are pet-friendly. For evening entertainment, the Old City district downtown offers excellent restaurants and live music venues within walking distance of several downtown parking areas.
Food-wise, don't miss the barbecue scene here. Sweet P's BBQ and Smokehouse has locations that are RV-accessible, and their dry-rubbed ribs are worth the trip. For groceries, the Kroger on Kingston Pike offers good RV parking and a solid selection.
Pet owners will love Ijams Nature Center, where dogs are welcome on most trails. The park also features several off-leash areas where your four-legged travel companions can stretch their legs after a long day on the road.
National Parks Nearby
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Read more →Frequently Asked Questions About Dump Stations in Knoxville
What are the best RV campgrounds in Knoxville?
The top-rated parks typically offer river access and full hookups with easy interstate access. Look for campgrounds along the Tennessee River corridor that provide both scenic settings and convenient access to downtown attractions. Many feature pull-through sites for big rigs and offer monthly rates for extended stays.
Is there free RV camping near Knoxville?
Free camping isn't available within Knoxville city limits, but you can find dispersed camping in Cherokee National Forest about 45 minutes southeast. These primitive sites require self-sufficiency and you'll need to return to town for dump stations and supplies.
What is the best time of year to camp in Knoxville?
Spring (March-May) and early fall (September-October) offer the most comfortable weather and beautiful scenery. However, fall brings University of Tennessee football crowds, so book early and expect higher rates. Spring provides excellent weather with fewer crowds and moderate pricing.
Are there full hookup RV parks in Knoxville?
Yes, most of Knoxville's campgrounds offer full hookups including water, electric, and sewer connections. Many also provide cable TV and WiFi as standard amenities. Several parks cater specifically to big rigs with pull-through sites and 50-amp service.
Can I boondock near Knoxville?
Boondocking opportunities exist in Cherokee National Forest and some Corps of Engineers areas within an hour's drive. However, these sites require complete self-sufficiency and don't offer amenities. Most RVers prefer the convenience and value of Knoxville's paid campgrounds with full services.
How far are the Great Smoky Mountains from Knoxville campgrounds?
The entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is approximately 45-60 minutes from most Knoxville RV parks via Highway 441 through Sevierville. This makes Knoxville an excellent base camp for exploring the Smokies while enjoying city amenities and reliable hookups.
What are the best RV campgrounds in Knoxville?
The top-rated parks typically offer river access and full hookups with easy interstate access. Look for campgrounds along the Tennessee River corridor that provide both scenic settings and convenient access to downtown attractions. Many feature pull-through sites for big rigs and offer monthly rates for extended stays.
Is there free RV camping near Knoxville?
Free camping isn't available within Knoxville city limits, but you can find dispersed camping in Cherokee National Forest about 45 minutes southeast. These primitive sites require self-sufficiency and you'll need to return to town for dump stations and supplies.
What is the best time of year to camp in Knoxville?
Spring (March-May) and early fall (September-October) offer the most comfortable weather and beautiful scenery. However, fall brings University of Tennessee football crowds, so book early and expect higher rates. Spring provides excellent weather with fewer crowds and moderate pricing.
Are there full hookup RV parks in Knoxville?
Yes, most of Knoxville's campgrounds offer full hookups including water, electric, and sewer connections. Many also provide cable TV and WiFi as standard amenities. Several parks cater specifically to big rigs with pull-through sites and 50-amp service.
Can I boondock near Knoxville?
Boondocking opportunities exist in Cherokee National Forest and some Corps of Engineers areas within an hour's drive. However, these sites require complete self-sufficiency and don't offer amenities. Most RVers prefer the convenience and value of Knoxville's paid campgrounds with full services.
How far are the Great Smoky Mountains from Knoxville campgrounds?
The entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is approximately 45-60 minutes from most Knoxville RV parks via Highway 441 through Sevierville. This makes Knoxville an excellent base camp for exploring the Smokies while enjoying city amenities and reliable hookups.
Are there free dump stations in Knoxville?
Yes — there are free RV waste disposal options available near Knoxville.
All Dump Stations Near Knoxville (118)
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