Christmas in the City

Knoxville is a destination where you can spend several days and not see it all. The options for sleeping in the great outdoors are numerous and include everything an RVing family enjoys. Choose either water or mountain views and claim a spot with the best birdwatching in Tennessee. Call ahead to confirm your chosen destination offers camping for winter travelers.

Certain sections of the Great Smoky Mountain State Park, conveniently located just a hop, skip, and jump from Knoxville, are open in the winter months. Some of the roads in the park are not open for winter travel due to the variance in elevation and conditions. Plan on a winter hike if you choose this destination to park your Class A. You will be amazed at the views.

Take a road trip to Devils Fork State Park in South Carolina and camp there on your way in or out of Knoxville, where fishing is a highlight. For a place to stay closer to Knoxville, Clinton / Knoxville North KOA offers RV camping in the colder months, but be sure to make your reservations in advance.

Dress in comfy and warm footwear for walking the streets of Knoxville or attending an event at the Park & Exposition Center. Don’t choose this as a day to break in a new pair of shoes or boots; you will want to be ready for standing and walking the distance. Keep an extra pair of long socks in your pocket in case you want to take a spin on the ice at the outdoor rink.

Fall and winter weather can be unpredictable in the area and surrounding towns, so be sure to pack for every eventuality. Clothing that can be easily layered is ideal. Pack extra hats and mittens, too, in case a rigorous hike sends you back to the camper with wet gear.

Supplies like firestarter, batteries, and a tarp for covering firewood are essentials for cold-weather camping. Include a camp stove in your gear, and top up the propane for heating the RV if needed. Hoses, clamps, and a set of screwdrivers are tools that should be in every RV equipment kit.

A carbon monoxide detector is a must when the windows are closed in the Airstream and the propane is in use. Leave the curtains open during the day to warm up your motorhome and close them at dusk to ensure a cozy atmosphere. Have the kids wear moisture-wicking clothing when they are romping in the snow, and a preventative cream for chapped cheeks is a good idea.

Watch your humidity levels inside the RV when cooking indoors during the colder months. All vents should be cleaned and capable of airflow. Consider prepping your meals at home and stocking the fridge with food items like corn chowder, chili, and pasta. Easy to heat up meals will save on propane.

Head into town to spend the day at the Ijams Nature Center and then walk along the Knoxville Riverfront. These two activities are bound to build a hearty appetite that can be sated at any one of the restaurants in the area. BBQ in any style is a popular menu item. Give it a try and then head back to the RV for dessert and a good book.

Visit sites like Knoxville’s Candy Factory & Victorian Houses for unique gifts to put under the RV Christmas tree. World’s Fair Park is 52-acres in size and offers plenty to do along with shopping. The town itself turns into a Peppermint Trail with every shop and restaurant decorated in the theme of this tasty holiday candy. Make a night of shopping here as well.