Little Oak Campground
4.46188 reviews4400 Unicoi Drive, Unicoi, Tennessee 37692, United States
Quick Facts
Price
$10 - $12/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
69 campsites
Season
Open from April to N...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyShowers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$10 - $12/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
69 campsites
Season
Open from April to N...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyShowers
Get DirectionsLittle Oak Campground
$10.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard nonelectric sites range from $10.00 (non-peak season) to $12.00 (peak season) per night. Reservation fees vary depending on booking method...
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Standard Site Fee$12.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$12.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider423-735-1500
What Campers Say
4.46
Recommended
Based on 188 reviews
94 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanshowersrestroomsspacious
Some mention
noise
"User reviews for Little Oak Campground are generally positive, highlighting the beautiful lakeside setting, clean facilities, and spacious sites. However, noise from generators and occasional issues with campground hosts have been noted."
Fees & Passes at Little Oak Campground
$10 - $12/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights allowed.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled up to a day before arrival with a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit t...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Cherokee National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Little Oak Campground
Experience the gentle rhythms of the seasons at Little Oak, where spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and perfect hiking temperatures, and fall paints the mountainsides in brilliant golds and crimsons. Summer brings warm, lazy days ideal for swimming and boating on the lake, while winter transforms the landscape into a quiet wonderland. Plan your visit according to seasonal access, as winter weather may affect campground availability.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: April 28, 2025 - October 13, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from April to November annually. Reservations are available starting in late June each year.
- Current Alerts: Gravel roads beyond the campground are closed due to construction.
About Little Oak Campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of South Holston Lake, Little Oak Campground invites you to experience the perfect blend of comfort and wilderness. With 69 thoughtfully designed, universally accessible campsites spread across four scenic loops, this family-friendly retreat ensures everyone can enjoy the great outdoors. Each site offers easy access to modern amenities including vault toilets and an accessible shower house, while the exclusive camper-only boat launch puts you just moments away from adventure on the water. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring nearby trails, or simply watching wildlife from your campsite, Little Oak provides an alcohol-free environment where families can create lasting memories together.
Little Oak Campground accommodates both tent and RV camping, with universally accessible sites. While no electricity or water hookups are available, the campground offers a rustic experience.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythms of the seasons at Little Oak, where spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and perfect hiking temperatures, and fall paints the mountainsides in brilliant golds and crimsons. Summer brings warm, lazy days ideal for swimming and boating on the lake, while winter transforms the landscape into a quiet wonderland. Plan your visit according to seasonal access, as winter weather may affect campground availability.
ElevationElevation data is not specified.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to breathtaking views where the Cherokee National Forest meets the sparkling waters of South Holston Lake. From your campsite, watch morning mist rise from the water as the rugged silhouettes of Holston and Iron Mountains frame the horizon. This diverse ecosystem comes alive with wildlife – keep your camera ready for black bears foraging in the distance, white-tailed deer grazing at dusk, and wild turkeys strutting through the underbrush. In spring and summer, the forest floor bursts with native wildflowers, creating a natural tapestry of color that changes with each passing week.
Geological RegionDiscover a landscape shaped by ancient forces and modern engineering at Little Oak Campground, where the majestic ridgelines of Holston Mountain and Iron Mountain cradle the waters of South Holston Lake. This 7,580-acre jewel, created and managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority as a hydroelectric reservoir, has transformed the Cherokee National Forest into a water lover's paradise. The convergence of mountain and lake creates unique microclimates and ecosystems, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience both highland forest and expansive waterfront in one spectacular setting.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is designed to be universally accessible, with paved roads, accessible campsites, and amenities like accessible vault toilets and showers.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with enough room to accommodate both tents and RVs.
Sites PrivacyCampsites provide a moderate level of privacy, with many shaded by trees. Reviews noted that sites are well-spaced, allowing for a sense of seclusion.
Total Campsites69 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites on the inside of loops for more safety from drop-offs. Sites near the lake offer water access.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Between 2 PM and 10 PM EST.
Check-out
11 AM EST
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits not specified.
Groups
The campground includes group sites that can accommodate larger parties, but specifics about group size limits are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFour loops with universally accessible campsites are present. Each loop has vault toilets, and central facilities include showers and a dump station.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April to November annually. Reservations are available starting in late June each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov (website and app), or by contacting the Recreation.gov customer service center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are available for stays up to two nights without reservations. Extended stays require reservation through Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to a day before arrival with a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee. Changes to reservations incur a $10 fee if dates differ completely.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Little Oak Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities including fishing, hiking, swimming, and boating. The lakeside setting is ideal for water sports, and the surrounding forest provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and birding.
Hiking
Nearby trails offer opportunities for hiking and horseback riding. Reviewers have praised the scenic beauty of the trails but noted that the terrain can be hilly.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with South Holston Lake providing opportunities for catching various fish species. Some campsites allow easy shoreline access for fishing.Swimming
There is a grassy area by the lake that is popular for swimming. However, no officially designated swimming area is mentioned.Biking
Campers frequently enjoy biking along the paved roads connecting the camping loops. The terrain is generally suitable for both adults and children.Boating
A concrete boat launch is available for campers, and the lake is suitable for kayaking, canoeing, and other water sports. Campers often tie their boats near their campsites.Wildlife viewing
Guests have reported sightings of deer, turkey, and wildflowers. Black bears are also present in the area, requiring campers to follow strict food storage guidelines.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, but the campground is situated in a region that may facilitate winter hiking or birding.Water Sports
Campers have enjoyed kayaking, paddleboarding, and non-motorized boating on South Holston Lake.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must be contained in designated fire rings. Use only local or on-site firewood to prevent spreading pests.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM EST.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards include black bears, raccoons, and skunks. Campsites near the lake may have cliffs or drop-offs. Poisonous spiders like black widows have been reported.
Active alertsGravel roads beyond the campground are closed due to construction.
Weather at Little Oak Campground
31
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 90%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Emergency Services
Closest emergency services include medical facilities and police stations in Bristol, Tennessee, approximately 30 minutes away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 28, 2025 - October 13, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal is managed through four bear-proof dumpsters located in the Boat Ramp parking area. Campers are advised to properly dispose of waste to avoid attracting wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresSituated directly on South Holston Lake. Lake access and a boat ramp are available.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include noise from generators during allowed hours (7 AM to 10 PM), overcrowding in bathrooms, and hosts enforcing rules inconsistently or being perceived as rude.
HostCamp hosts are available on-site and handle cleaning and rule enforcement.
Campground Map
4400 Unicoi Drive, Unicoi, Tennessee 37692, United States
Driving directionsFrom Bristol, take US 421 south for 12 miles, and turn right onto paved Camp Tom Howard Road. After 0.5 miles, this road becomes Forest Road #87. Continue on Road #87 for six miles. Turn right on Road #87G for 1.5 miles to Little Oak.
Little Oak Campground is only accessible via paved Camp Tom Howard Rd off Hwy 421. The gravel road past the campground is closed due to road construction.Nearby places
Bristol, Tennessee: 30 minutes
Backbone Rock Recreation Area: 30 minutes
Jacobs Creek Campground: 25 minutes
Damascus, Virginia: 35 minutes.
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries and fuel can be found near Bristol, approximately 30 minutes away. There is also a marina across the lake for boat-related needs, but no camp store is present at Little Oak.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
188 reviews
Little Oak Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Little Oak Campground are generally positive, highlighting the beautiful lakeside setting, clean facilities, and spacious sites. However, noise from generators and occasional issues with campground hosts have been noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 188 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms and showers, spacious campsites with lake access, family-friendly environment, and beautiful natural surroundings.
Based on 188 reviewsCommon Concerns
Noise from generators, inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours, lack of electrical hookups, and occasional unprofessional behavior from campground hosts.
Based on 188 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Book reservations well in advance for lakeside sites. Bring sufficient supplies as the campground is remote. Consider camping during weekdays for a quieter experience.
Based on 188 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Peak summer months are busier, with some complaints about noise and generator use. Fall offers a quieter, more scenic camping experience.
Based on 188 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The sites are spacious, situated around a gorgeous lake, have a fire ring, heavy-duty picnic table, and lantern post.' (James Henson) 2. 'The lake is gorgeous and the water is so clean and...
Based on 188 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 49, 51, and 60 are recommended for direct lake access. Site 58 is praised for privacy and scenic views.
Based on 188 reviewsAccessibility Features
While the campground is universally accessible, one reviewer noted that hooks in the handicapped bathroom were not low enough for wheelchair users.
Based on 188 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times. Some complaints were noted about unleashed pets interfering with other campers.
Based on 188 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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