Nestled on the Tennessee-Kentucky border, Indian Mountain State Park is a stunning, expansive green space packed with activities for RV campers craving a little fresh air. This 213-acre tract was once an abandoned strip mine before it was revitalized into a natural area by the city of Jellico in the 1960s.
Indian Mountain State Park makes a great base camp for families looking to explore nearby museums and theme parks in both Tennessee and Kentucky. If you're expecting a camping excursion way up in the world-famous mountains of Tennessee, though, you won't find it here; Indian Mountain State Park can be found at the base of its namesake peak.
However, if you're looking for a place to park the motorhome and enjoy some rest and relaxation in the great outdoors, Indian Mountain State Park offers a variety of activities to suit laid-back landlubbers, including hiking, birding, picnicking, and outdoor sports. Those looking to spread their water wings will find opportunities to fish and paddle on Indian Mountain Lake. Once you're ready to hit the road in the RV again, make a pit stop in the quaint city of Jellico to grab a bite to eat and fuel up before making your way further north into Kentucky.
Internal roads through Indian Mountain State Park are paved and present few road hazards for vehicles. Nearby Highway 9 leads into the town of Jellico, where campers will find a few general stores where they can stock up on provisions and last-minute items.
Two paved parking lots are available for day-use visitors at Indian Mountain State Park. The main parking area is located by the basketball court, while another smaller lot can be found near the lake, just across from the campground.
Featuring 47 sites for campers in tents and motorhomes, Indian Mountain State Park's Campground offers plenty of amenities, including pristine restroom and shower facilities, picnic tables, grills, a dump station, and full hookups with 20, 30, and 50 amp electricity. Note that only five sites have sewer hookups, so advance reservations are recommended for campers who require them. A group camping area is also available in addition to individual sites.
Big rigs are more than welcome at Indian Mountain State Park. Sites here can accommodate vehicles between 38 and 72 feet long. Most sites are asphalt, though a handful of sites are paved or gravel. About half the sites offer back-in access.
Campers are welcome to park their rigs at Indian Mountain State Park year-round without making a reservation in advance, but be advised that the water is turned off in the winter -- this includes the bathhouse.
Don't forget to pack your rod and reel in your rig -- the fish are always biting at Indian Mountain State Park! Angling enthusiasts can plan a fishing trip here in all seasons to try their luck reeling in bass, catfish, or crappie for dinner. A variety of species is on the menu -- just remember to bring your valid Tennessee fishing license.
RV campers looking to stretch their legs will find a handful of easy trails to explore at Indian Mountain State Park. The trail system here is comprised of five trails totaling three miles. Enjoy water views on Ballard Lake Trail, Indian Mountain Lake Trail, and Airplane Pond Trail. Elk Creek Trail and Boy Scout Trail, both of which are a half-mile, are great places to take the dog for a quick walk.
Fresh air, clear blue skies, and vibrant green forest views make a boating excursion on Indian Mountain Lake extra special. Canoers, kayakers, and paddlers are welcome to explore the lake in their own private watercraft. No boat? No problem! Indian Mountain State Park offers rowboat rentals in season. Note that gas-powered motorboats are prohibited, although watercraft with electric trolling motors are permitted to explore the lake.
Don't forget the picnic basket when packing your motorhome for your camping trip at Indian Mountain State Park! The park's three picnic shelters come complete with the standard amenities, namely picnic tables and grills. Capacity varies depending on the pavilion you select, but can accommodate between 100 and 150 people. Reservations are required for large group gatherings.
This vast park is essentially a giant playground complete with sports courts and fields. Don't forget to pack your athletic equipment in your campervan! The basketball, volleyball, and horseshoe courts, as well as the children's playground, are great places to enjoy a little friendly competition after a long day of hiking, fishing, or paddling around the lake.
The kids in your camping crew will always find something fun to do at Indian Mountain State Park! Annual holiday events include an Easter egg hunt and a Fourth of July celebration. May Day is a fun way to celebrate the end of the school year and the start of the summer season. Runners and athletes might also enjoy the Miners Mile 5K and 10K run, held every year in September.
