Volunteer Park Family Campground

Those looking to enjoy the hidden lakes and waterways of Appalachia should head to Norris Dam State Park. While it's a human-made reservoir, the landscape has adapted beautifully to host this Tennessee gem. Visitors are encouraged to explore the park with a motorized boat or paddleboat, many of which can be rented at the park. With 800 miles of coastline, there is plenty to see. Those who would rather stay on dry land can visit Norris Dam. Hikers can explore 15 different trails, all with varying degrees of difficulty. Take a stroll around the shoreline or head up into the foothills of the area to make the most of your visit to this beautiful park.

Also situated on the shores of Norris Lake and just a short drive from the RV campground is Big Ridge State Park in Maynardville. This state park is a little more remote than its neighbor Norris Dam. It provides visitors a great opportunity to delve deeper into the Appalachian wilderness. There are 15 miles of trails that will lead you up into some of the more adventurous and rugged sections of the local foothills. Or instead, you can go looking for the ruins of some of the early settlers’ homesteads that dot the landscape. And thanks to its lakeshore setting, you can also enjoy fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities - especially during those hot Tennessee summers.

Experience the nearby Cumberland Mountains when you journey to Frozen Head State Park in Wartburg. The centerpiece of the park is a 3,324-foot peak. If you're not quite up for the challenge, there are plenty of scenic, lower-impact trails that will lead you past waterfalls, stunning forest landscapes, and rock shelters. If you’d rather learn something about the local history, you can tour the Stonecipher-Kelly House, the oldest house in the county.

History lovers should plan to spend some time at the nearby Museum of Appalachia. This “living village” showcases a wide variety of exhibits surrounding Appalachian history and culture. You can head to The Barn to see historic farming methods and general pioneer tools or stroll about the recreated pioneer village to see historically accurate homesteads and historically functioning farms.

Those traveling with children should plan a day trip to The Muse Knoxville. This hands-on science museum is family-friendly and works to help educate people of all ages about the many wonders of science. With a planetarium, a hands-on space exhibit, and interactive exhibits about light and sound, there is a lot to learn.

While you're camping near Heiskell, head to The Green Mc Adoo Cultural Center and Museum in Clinton to gain some insight into some of the region's past. The center showcases the evolution of civil rights in the area, the desegregation of the local school, and how the community has developed since then.

You can’t come to Tennessee and some classic regional cuisine. One of the best dishes to sample is Hot Chicken. This spicy chicken is breaded and fried. It is a local staple and puts all other fried chicken to shame. Though it originated in Nashville, the recipe has since spread across the state, so go search out an eatery in nearby Knoxville and chow down.