Clancy, Author at Tennessee Lakes and Rivers

Camping by the lake has always had a special place in my heart. The sound of gentle waves lapping at the shore, the early morning fog rising from the water, and the stillness that blankets the campground after dark create a peaceful experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. Tennessee, with its abundance of reservoirs, state parks, and natural beauty, offers some of the most incredible lakefront camping in the country. After years of setting up tents and parking campers near these waters, I’ve come to know which spots truly stand out. The most scenic lakeside campgrounds in Tennessee offer more than just a place to rest your head. They give you direct access to kayaking at sunrise, fishing at dusk, and trails that snake through forests teeming with wildlife. Whether you’re pitching a tent or rolling in with an RV, these campgrounds bring together natural beauty, quiet solitude, and outdoor recreation in a way that’s distinctly Tennessean. Norris Dam State Park Campground – Norris Lake Tucked away in East Tennessee, Norris Lake is known for its clean, emerald waters and winding coves. At Norris Dam State Park, the lakeside campground offers stunning views and easy access to some of the best paddling and fishing in the area. I often return here for the peaceful vibe—especially during autumn when the hills surrounding the lake explode with color. The sites are shaded and well-maintained, with options for both RVs and tents. I’ve spent early mornings sipping coffee as the sun crept over the ridges and evenings around the fire listening to owls in the woods. There are also hiking trails, a marina, and picnic areas nearby, making it a full outdoor experience. Cages Bend Campground – Old Hickory Lake Located just outside of Nashville, Cages Bend Campground on Old Hickory Lake surprised me the first time I visited. You wouldn’t expect such natural beauty so close to the city. This Army Corps of Engineers campground has lakeside sites that sit right on the water, offering an unobstructed view of the lake with its slow-moving waves and distant boat traffic. The sites are spacious and peaceful, perfect for a weekend escape without a long drive. Fishing is especially good here, and I’ve seen more than a few anglers haul in catfish and bass while casting just steps from their campsite. Birdwatchers also flock here during the migratory seasons. If you’re looking for convenience mixed with lakeside serenity, this is one of the most scenic lakeside campgrounds in Tennessee. Dale Hollow Lake Campground – Lillydale Campground Dale Hollow Lake straddles the Tennessee-Kentucky border and is famous for its deep, clear waters and world-record smallmouth bass. On the Tennessee side, Lillydale Campground is a must-visit. I’m always struck by the dramatic cliffs that rise from the water and the panoramic views you get right from your picnic table. Lillydale is well-maintained, with a swimming beach, boat ramp, and plenty of shoreline to explore. The peacefulness at night is incredible—just the sound of frogs and the occasional fish jumping. It’s not uncommon to spot deer and wild turkeys wandering near the campsites. I find myself lingering here longer than planned every time. Reelfoot Lake State Park Campground West Tennessee’s Reelfoot Lake is unlike any other body of water in the state. Formed by earthquakes in the early 1800s, its shallow, swampy waters are dotted with cypress trees, moss, and incredible wildlife. Camping at Reelfoot Lake State Park puts you right in the heart of this otherworldly ecosystem. The lakefront sites are peaceful and offer easy access to fishing piers and canoe rentals. I’ve seen bald eagles soaring overhead and heard barred owls calling after sunset. Photographers will love the golden light filtering through the Spanish moss at dawn. This place has a magic all its own and easily ranks among the most scenic lakeside campgrounds in Tennessee. Edgar Evins State Park – Center Hill Lake If you like your campsites with a view, Edgar Evins State Park is hard to beat. Located on the shores of Center Hill Lake, the campground is built into the hillside, with wooden platforms that make you feel like you're in a treehouse overlooking the water. I always look forward to the quiet mornings here, when the fog rolls across the lake and the world feels hushed. The sites are unique, and the park offers excellent hiking, birding, and water recreation. I’ve launched my kayak from the marina to explore hidden coves and even spotted otters along the shoreline. The elevation gives a unique perspective, and the peaceful environment makes it easy to relax and recharge. Pickwick Landing State Park Campground – Pickwick Lake Down in southern Tennessee near the Mississippi border, Pickwick Lake is a sprawling reservoir that’s popular for boating and fishing. Pickwick Landing State Park has one of the most scenic lakeside campgrounds in Tennessee, thanks to its expansive waterfront and beautifully kept grounds. The campground sits near a marina and sandy beach, and it offers roomy sites with full hookups. I’ve caught crappie and bream just a short walk from my camper and watched the sunset while grilling dinner under the trees. The combination of wide open water and lush greenery makes this a favorite summer stop. Montgomery Bell State Park – Lake Acorn While not a massive lake, Lake Acorn at Montgomery Bell State Park delivers big on scenic value. Located west of Nashville, this lake is surrounded by dense forest and trails that meander through hardwood groves and meadows. The campground is set back from the shore but within easy walking distance, and some sites offer partial lake views. I love this campground for its peaceful setting and excellent trail system. Canoeing on the lake is incredibly relaxing, especially in the early morning. It’s one of the most family-friendly options on this list, with a swimming area, playgrounds, and modern bathhouses. The fall foliage here is simply breathtaking. Tellico Lake Campgrounds – Notchy Creek and Toqua In East Tennessee, Tellico Lake is known for its mountain views and relatively quiet waters. Notchy Creek and Toqua campgrounds, both managed by the TVA, offer basic but scenic lakeside camping experiences. These aren’t fancy, but they put you right on the water in a setting that feels far from civilization. What I love most here is the sense of remoteness. Mornings are often still enough to see mist hanging low across the lake, and the nearby Cherokee National Forest gives you access to amazing hiking and wildlife. Whether you’re fishing, paddling, or just soaking up the silence, this area delivers. Watauga Lake Campground – Cardens Bluff Watauga Lake sits high in the Appalachian Mountains and is surrounded by steep, forested hills that reflect beautifully on the water. Cardens Bluff Campground offers some of the best lakeside campsites I’ve found anywhere. Sites hug the shoreline, and some even offer direct water access, perfect for launching a kayak or enjoying a quiet swim. It’s less developed than some of the state parks, but what it lacks in amenities it makes up for in natural beauty. The water is clean and cold, and the setting is incredibly peaceful. I often recommend this spot to friends looking for something a little more remote and a lot more scenic. Fort Loudoun Lake Campgrounds – Louisville Point Park Just outside of Knoxville, Fort Loudoun Lake is more urban but still offers some surprisingly beautiful spots to camp by the water. Louisville Point Park is a local favorite, with grassy campsites and mature trees providing shade. The views of the lake are long and open, and you can watch boats cruise by or spend the afternoon fishing from the shoreline. It’s a great option if you want to be near the city but still get that lakeside experience. I’ve stayed here on quick weekend trips and always appreciated the easy access and relaxing atmosphere. It may not be as wild as some of the mountain lakes, but it has its own charm and convenience. Tips for a Great Lakeside Camping Trip Reserve Early: The most scenic lakeside campgrounds in Tennessee fill up quickly, especially in summer and fall. I usually book my sites a few months in advance when possible. Pack for Bugs and Weather: Tennessee lakes bring out the mosquitoes in full force. I always bring a good repellent and a canopy with mosquito netting. Don’t forget rain gear—summer storms can appear without warning. Respect the Wildlife: Black bears, raccoons, and snakes are part of the landscape in some areas. Store food properly and watch your step on trails. I always keep a flashlight handy at night. Bring a Watercraft: Whether it’s a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, having something to get out on the water makes the experience that much better. Many of these campgrounds have boat ramps or easy shoreline access. Why These Campgrounds Stand Out Tennessee’s lakes are beautiful, but not all campgrounds are created equal. What sets these locations apart is their ability to combine scenery, peace, and direct access to outdoor activities. Whether you’re perched on a bluff at Watauga or tucked among cypress trees at Reelfoot, each campground offers a unique flavor of Tennessee’s natural beauty. The most scenic lakeside campgrounds in Tennessee aren’t just places to sleep—they’re destinations in their own right. You’ll wake up to views that belong on postcards and fall asleep to the sound of crickets under star-strewn skies. These experiences are what keep me coming back and what I hope more people get to enjoy. Final Thoughts Camping by a lake in Tennessee offers more than just proximity to water—it’s about being immersed in the rhythm of nature. Whether it’s the sunrise glittering on Norris Lake, the haunting calls of owls over Reelfoot, or the fiery foliage at Edgar Evins, these moments stick with you long after the trip ends. The most scenic lakeside campgrounds in Tennessee are worth every mile you travel to get there. Each one offers a different experience, shaped by its setting, wildlife, and the stories you make while you’re there. I hope this guide inspires your next trip—and that you find the same peace and joy on these shores that I always do.