Campground Reviews
Tennessee
Favorite Campground Tennessee
Toqua Campground – Vonore, TN
Our first choice is usually State Parks, but many of them book months in advance and don’t always have sites large enough for our rig. This time, though, our decision wasn’t about availability—it was all about location.
I travel with a motorcycle enthusiast, and if we were stopping in Tennessee, it had to be near the legendary Tail of the Dragon (Highway 129). With more than 300 tight turns packed into just 11 miles, it’s a bucket‑list ride for anyone on two wheels. RV parks were the only realistic option within a reasonable distance, and Toqua Campground in Vonore, TN checked every box.
Tucked into a quiet cove on Tellico Lake, the campground offers:
- 102 RV sites of varying sizes that can accommodate most rigs
- Full hookups (water, electric, sewer)
- 4 lakefront cabins
- Boat slips available for rent
- Clean, private shower houses
- Laundry facilities
- A large sandy beach
- Kayak rentals
- Premium sites with concrete pads and stone fireplaces
Even though the campground was completely full during our stay, it was one of the quietest and most peaceful places we’ve visited. The lakeside setting, tucked away from the main road, adds to that sense of calm.
The town of Vonore is just 4 miles away and has everything you need—grocery stores, gas, liquor, hardware, and several restaurant options. It’s convenient without feeling crowded.
This stay reminded me that not all RV resorts are created equal. Toqua Campground delivered on comfort, cleanliness, and location, and it’s absolutely a place we’d return to on future trips through Tennessee.
Where We Stayed
Our Tennessee stay was short and sweet. Even though we spent a few weeks in the state, we didn’t hop around much—each stop had its own charm and gave us exactly what we needed in the moment.
Nashville KOA
Our first stop was a KOA in Nashville. I usually gravitate toward State or local parks, but Nashville is a busy tourist hub and everything else was either booked solid or farther from the city than we wanted. Since it was our first time visiting Nashville, I leaned heavily on online reviews, and this KOA lived up to the hype.
Because it was the off-season, the campground wasn’t full but had a comfortable number of guests—just the way we like it. We didn’t want to deal with driving in the city, so the KOA shuttle was a huge bonus. The driver was friendly, knowledgeable, and turned the ride into a mini tour. The best surprise? The pool was still open for the season, and after long days of walking around downtown Nashville, relaxing in the hot tub felt like heaven.
Toqua Campground – Vonore, TN
Our next stop was Toqua Campground, which I highlighted in my previous article as our favorite in Tennessee—and honestly, one of the best of the entire trip. It checked every box: peaceful, scenic, well-maintained, and perfectly located for our adventures. This one will always stand out.
Harrison Bay State Park – Chattanooga, TN
Our next stop was Harrison Bay State Park in Chattanooga. We stayed a few nights in mid‑October, which was still prime camping season, so the park was packed. The drive in was beautiful, and the grounds were well maintained, but the sites themselves were small and close together.
I had used the online photos to pick our spot, but they weren’t very accurate. The driveway was long enough for our rig, but the steep slope on both sides made unhitching a challenge. After a frustrating half hour of maneuvering, we finally got set up and decided to stay so we could enjoy the lake and get in some mountain biking.
The lake traffic was light, which made for peaceful evening walks and calm water during a gorgeous sunset. Weekend family campers kept the park lively, and things stayed active right up until quiet hours. I understand people wanting to have fun, but screaming kids until 10 p.m. was a bit much for my taste. We’ll definitely try other Tennessee State Parks in the future, but this one won’t be on our return list.
DelMonaco Winery – Baxter, TN (Harvest Host)
Our final Tennessee stop was a Harvest Host stay at DelMonaco Winery in Baxter. It was the perfect overnight between two long drive days. Just two miles off the highway, the property sits at the end of a long, narrow road and is wonderfully quiet.
The winery and vineyard are pristine, and the parking area for rigs is level with a treelined edge that made it feel tucked away. One of my favorite features was the neighborhood surrounding the second vineyard—an absolutely beautiful place for an after-dinner stroll with our dog.
As usual, we were there in the off-season (mid-November), and we had the place entirely to ourselves. We enjoyed a wine tasting and dinner with a bottle of truly amazing wine. This stop quickly became one of our favorite Harvest Hosts of the trip.
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Georgia
Favorite Campground Georgia
Skidaway Island State Park – Savannah, GA
The drive to Skidaway Island sets the tone long before you reach the campground. The Diamond Causeway winds past wide‑open salt marshes and the Skidaway River, offering those classic Lowcountry views that make you slow down and breathe a little deeper. By the time you turn into the park entrance, the magic has already begun.
The ¼‑mile drive into the park feels like entering another world—Spanish moss draped over towering live oaks, soft filtered light, and even the faint scent of salt air drifting through the windows. It’s one of the most enchanting campground approaches we’ve experienced.
During our stay, the campground was about 75% full, yet wonderfully peaceful at night. You could hear the crackle of campfires and the occasional hoot of an owl carrying through the trees. The only notable disruption is a nearby military shooting range that starts early in the morning, so be prepared for that.
The park offers:
- 87 pull‑through sites with water and electric
- 3 rental cabins
- A dump station
- 3 shower houses
- 3 laundry facilities
- 6 miles of hiking trails, with 3 miles also open to bikes
The campground map shows a simple oval loop, but in reality the roads are quite curvy—something to keep in mind if you’re maneuvering a longer rig. The sites themselves are spacious and private, thanks to the thick oak canopy and lush ground cover. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table, and many have a raised sandy pad perfect for tents.
For essentials, there’s a grocery store and gas station right on the island. If you’re looking for more variety, Savannah’s shopping and dining options are just 7 miles away.
The area is rich with day‑trip opportunities: Historic Savannah, Wormsloe State Historic Site, Fort Pulaski National Monument, Tybee Island, and even Hilton Head are all within easy reach. Whether you stay for a week or settle in for a couple of weeks, you’ll have no shortage of places to explore.
Skidaway Island State Park is the kind of place that blends natural beauty, convenience, and a sense of quiet escape—an easy favorite for anyone visiting the Savannah area.
Where We Stayed
Our nearly three‑week stay in Georgia was a beautiful mix of Harvest Hosts, RV parks, State Parks, and time with family—and I can truly say, Georgia has so much to offer.
Bonds Estate & Gardens – Covington, GA (Harvest Host)
Our first stop was just southeast of Atlanta at Bonds Estate & Gardens, a Harvest Host run by the lovely L.A., Robert, and their boys. This historic Southern estate is the definition of hospitality—full of towering trees, curated gardens, and even a historic cemetery tucked into the grounds. Their offerings include teas, fresh produce, and meals that rival high‑end restaurants. If you’re looking for a peaceful stay wrapped in history, charm, and incredible food, this is the place to stop.
Oconee Springs Campground & RV Park – Eatonton, GA
Next up was Oconee Springs, located on the beautiful shores of Lake Sinclair. This park features a sandy beach, cabin rentals, and large, level RV sites. We were there for a wedding reception, and the on‑site event hall made everything incredibly convenient. In the summer, the park offers an inflatable waterpark, boat slips, and marine fuel. It’s family‑owned, and every staff member we met was friendly, welcoming, and ready to help with anything we needed.
Shoulderbone a Private RV Park on Lake Oconee – Staying With Family
From there, we moved just a few miles down the road to stay with family at Shoulderbone a private RV park—and it was fantastic. The park sits on a 500‑acre peninsula on Lake Oconee, with nearly every site offering either lakeside or lakeview serenity. Quiet doesn’t even begin to describe it. We spent our days walking or taking the Ranger out to explore the property. There were original historic buildings, a small cemetery, and wildlife everywhere—deer, birds, and the kind of peaceful stillness you can feel in your bones.
One afternoon we even foraged for pecans, and I have to admit—they taste so much better than store‑bought. We found beautiful rocks, feathers, and even an old stone bridge over a creek. This place was a total gem, and if you’re ever lucky enough to know someone with a site here, you’ll truly enjoy your stay.
Skidaway Island State Park – Savannah, GA
Our final stay in Georgia was Skidaway Island State Park in Savannah, and it quickly became our favorite in the state. To read more about this beautiful park, check out my article “Favorite Campground: Georgia.”
We’ll definitely be heading back to Georgia in the future and look forward to discovering even more amazing places to stay.
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N&S Carolina
Favorite campground Carolinas
Dreher Island State Park – Prosperity, SC
Just a short drive from Columbia, Dreher Island State Park offers an easy and refreshing getaway. Whether you’re drawn to the lake or the trails, this island park has something for every kind of outdoor lover.
We arrived just as the fall colors were beginning to change, and watching the transformation was spectacular. In just a few days, the trees shifted from deep summer greens to glowing yellows and oranges. One calm morning even gave me the chance to slip out on the paddleboard—glass‑smooth water, crisp air, and total stillness.
The park features 112 campsites, with 97 paved sites offering water and electric hookups for RVs.
- Loop A is more open, with scattered trees and consistent lake views—about half the sites are lakefront—and one bathhouse serves the loop.
- Loop B is more wooded, offering extra privacy, and many of its sites sit right along the water. This loop has three bathhouses.
Across the island you’ll also find 15 rental cabins, several picnic pavilions, and four hiking trails that showcase the park’s varied shoreline and forested pockets. Near the entrance is a camp store and a boat launch for larger motorized boats. Midway up the island is a dedicated kayak and SUP rental and launch area, making it easy to get out on the water.
One of the most unexpected delights was the wildlife. Deer wander through the campground throughout the day, and if you return after dark, you’ll likely be greeted by dozens of them enjoying their own evening stroll.
The nearest town, Chapin, is just 11 miles away and has everything you need—groceries, fuel, liquor, hardware, and more.
Dreher Island State Park offers a charming island escape with beautiful lake views, peaceful trails, and plenty of amenities. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy a simple, scenic vacation.
Where We Stayed
Shire Hill Grove – Yemassee, SC (Harvest Host)
Our first stop in the Carolinas was a true hidden gem. Shire Hill Grove, a family‑owned 62‑acre hobby farm, sits conveniently between Beaufort, Charleston, and Savannah. They offer both dry camping and partial hook‑up sites, along with a full bathhouse and laundry—perfect for a reset between state parks.
We stopped for a quick overnight, not because of a long drive, but because we couldn’t secure back‑to‑back dates at the two state parks we wanted. This turned out to be the ideal pause: close to the highway yet tucked away enough to feel peaceful and secluded.
The camping field is bordered by mature live oaks draped in Spanish moss and ferns. A large red barn houses a small petting zoo, and the shower house and laundry. The pasture near the owners’ home is home to several draft horses and a full pecan grove. We happened to arrive on farrier day and got to watch the horses being shod—a fun surprise. We caught up on laundry, wandered the property, and enjoyed a quiet, restorative stay.
Santee State Park – Santee, SC
Our second stop brought us to Santee State Park on beautiful Lake Marion. Several miles off the main highway and tucked among tall southern pines, this 2,500‑acre park offers two campgrounds with 158 campsites and 30 rental cabins, plus two boat ramps and more than 10 miles of hiking and biking trails. From the shoreline, you can take in views of the flooded cypress forest or join a guided pontoon tour.
We stayed in the Cypress View Campground, where the sites were spacious and level. We enjoyed hiking with our dog and explored several of the mountain biking trails. The roads leading into the park weren’t in the best condition, though Cypress View had the better-maintained loop. The Lakeshore Campground offered more mature trees, but the older sites were noticeably smaller and many were uneven due to root growth beneath the pads.
Even with those quirks, we thoroughly enjoyed exploring this park and all it has to offer.
Dreher Island State Park – Prosperity, SC
This was our favorite campground in the Carolinas. Just a short drive from Columbia, Dreher Island State Park sits on Lake Murray and offers the perfect blend of lake life and wooded trails.
We arrived just as the fall colors were shifting. In a matter of days, the trees transformed from deep green to glowing yellows and oranges. One calm morning even gave me the chance to slip out on the paddleboard—pure magic.
The island park features 112 campsites, 97 of them paved with water and electric hookups.
- Loop A is more open, with scattered trees and consistent lake views—about half the sites are lakefront—and one bathhouse.
- Loop B is more wooded, offering extra privacy, and many sites sit right along the water. This loop has three bathhouses.
There are also 15 rental cabins, several picnic pavilions, four hiking trails, a camp store, and a boat launch for larger motorized boats. Midway up the island is a dedicated kayak and SUP rental and launch area.
One of the most delightful surprises was the wildlife. Deer wander through the campground throughout the day, and if you return after dark, you’ll likely be greeted by dozens of them enjoying their own evening stroll.
The nearest town, Chapin, is just 11 miles away and has everything you need—groceries, fuel, liquor, hardware, and more. This island park truly offers a charming, peaceful getaway.
KOA Asheville East – Swannanoa, NC
This KOA has the potential to be a fantastic location, but the area was hit hard by Hurricane Helene in 2024 and is still rebuilding. The campground once had over 200 sites and now has about 70, all newly renovated. With no bathhouse or laundry currently available, the park is only suitable for fully contained RVs—no tent camping. They previously had around 30 rental cabins and currently have just five.
There are several nice walking paths, many of which used to be roads before the storm. Hearing stories of homes floating down the river and entire roads washed away was heartbreaking, but the resilience of this community is evident everywhere you look.
We had planned several long motorcycle rides, but many of the mountain roads were still closed. Instead, we opted for a few shorter rides and filled the rest of our time with sightseeing. I’ll definitely consider this KOA again on future trips and hope they’re able to restore the full functionality they once had.
tbd
Texas
Favorite Campground Texas
Garner State Park – Concan, TX
With more than 400 campsites, we weren’t sure what to expect when we booked a stay at Garner State Park—especially over Christmas week. We assumed it would be packed. We were wrong in the best possible way.
Set in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, the park is surrounded by rolling limestone hills and the clear, spring‑fed Frio River. It’s about 37 miles from the larger town of Uvalde, so stocking up before settling in for the week is a smart move. During the winter months, several campground loops close due to lower attendance, which worked perfectly for us since we prefer quieter stays.
Many of the sites are fairly close together and on the shorter side, so we had to be selective when choosing our spot. The park includes 8 separate loops with over 400 campsites, plus:
- 17 rental cabins
- 10 bathhouses
- 4 RV dump stations
- 1 laundry facility
- A park store, gift shop, candy shop, and even a mini‑golf course
In the Pecan Grove area, the boathouse offers kayak and SUP rentals, ideal for warm days on the Frio River. The river is dammed here, creating a slow‑moving, peaceful stretch of water. We went paddleboarding the day after Christmas, and it was fantastic—crisp air, quiet cypress lined banks, and that unmistakable Hill Country charm.
The park also features 11.5 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging. We explored several of them on both foot and bike (not all trails allow biking), and every route offered something beautiful.
- Old Baldy was our favorite challenging hike—steep, rewarding, and iconic.
- For mountain biking, the Wild Horse → Highway → Ashe Juniper combination was our top pick, offering a challenging mix of terrain and views.
Garner State Park turned out to be the perfect place to slow down and savor the holiday week. Between the river, the trails, and the peaceful winter atmosphere, it gave us exactly the kind of reset we were hoping for.
Where We Stayed
Coming Soon
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New Mexico
Favorite Campground New Mexico
Oliver Lee Memorial State Park – Alamogordo, NM
Nestled at the base of Benson Ridge, Oliver Lee Memorial State Park is one of those campgrounds that catches your eye long before you arrive. We could see it from nearly five miles out—perched slightly above the main road, framed by desert ridgelines—and I was instantly giddy for the views.
Driving in feels like stepping into a classic New Mexico desert scene. Cacti and native plants are thoughtfully arranged around each site, and the terraced layout of the loops gives every camper a chance to enjoy both ridge and desert vistas. Behind the campground, the ridge rises dramatically, glowing in the morning and evening light.
Within the park sits the restored homestead of Oliver Lee, including Frenchy’s cabin and the original hand‑stacked stone walls. The visitor center has a small but interesting museum, and guided tours to Lee’s ranch house add a surprising layer of history to the stay.
The campground offers:
- 44 campsites, including 18 with electricity
- 2 bathhouses
- 6 miles of hiking trails with varying difficulty
We hiked all the shorter trails near the campground with our dog and found them peaceful and scenic. The longer Dog Canyon Trail stretches 5.2 miles one way. We tackled the first 2.5 miles, and it starts out with a bang—steep, rocky terrain and tight switchbacks that climb quickly. It’s a solid half‑mile push upward, but the sweeping views make every step worth it.
The guided tour to the ranch house ended up being one of the highlights of our stay. We knew nothing about Oliver Lee beforehand, and the history was surprisingly rich—even a movie was filmed on the land.
This was easily the cleanest state park we stayed at, and the views were some of the best of our entire trip.
The town of Alamogordo is just 14 miles away and has everything you need. From the park, we took a day trip to White Sands National Park, a motorcycle ride up to the quaint mountain town of Cloudcroft, and noted that Valley of Fires Recreation Area sits just a short drive north. There’s no shortage of fun and fascinating places to explore in this corner of New Mexico.
Oliver Lee State Park offers a blend of desert beauty, fascinating history, and unforgettable views—an easy favorite for anyone traveling through southern New Mexico.
Where We Stayed
Coming Soon
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Utah
Favorite Campground Utah
Quail Creek State Park — Hurricane, UT
This recommendation is a first for us in that we didn’t actually stay here—not for lack of trying. Quail Creek is one of the closest state parks to Zion National Park, and it books up fast. Its location is hard to beat: just 13 miles north of St. George, 21 miles from the Kolob Canyon entrance, and 36 miles from the main Zion Canyon entrance.
Tucked between the Harrisburg Bench and Sandstone Mountain along the shores of Quail Creek Reservoir, the park offers pristine views and a peaceful setting just off the main highway. With only 49 campsites—14 primitive and 34 with partial hookups—plus two shower houses, snagging a reservation can be a challenge. All sites are paved and come equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and shade shelter.
Despite its small footprint, the park is packed with amenities: a boat launch, picnic areas, a frisbee golf course, and miles of hiking and biking trails. In peak season, the offerings expand even more with family‑friendly activities like an inflatable water park, SUP rentals, jet ski rentals, a slalom waterski course, beach volleyball, and even ice cream and shaved ice vendors.
With its proximity to Zion and its long list of amenities, Quail Creek State Park remains our first choice when visiting southwest Utah. One of these trips, we’ll actually manage to stay there.
Where We Stayed
Coming Soon
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