Jacobs Creek Recreation Area
4.3944 reviewsJacobs Creek Recreation Area, Tennessee
Quick Facts
1,780 ftPrice
$12/night
Booking
Walk-in Only
Sites
27 campsites
Season
Open seasonally from...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Allowed
Showers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
1,780 ftPrice
$12/night
Booking
Walk-in Only
Sites
27 campsites
Season
Open seasonally from...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Allowed
Showers
Get DirectionsJacobs Creek Recreation Area
$12.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping is $12 per site. Day use fees are $2 per vehicle per day, or a Cherokee National Forest Pass for $30 per year.
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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USFS
Provider423-735-1547
What Campers Say
4.39
Recommended
Based on 44 reviews
244 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanshowersfriendly
Some mention
small
"User reviews generally praise the campground for its cleanliness, scenic location by South Holston Lake, and family-friendly atmosphere. However, criticisms include the behavior of boaters near the swimming area and occasional overcrowding."
Fees & Passes at Jacobs Creek Recreation Area
$12/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Stay is limited to 14 days maximum.
Cancellation: Advanced reservation cancellation policies are null. Users are refunded if the campground closure pe...
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Watauga Ranger District website.
Best Time to Camp at Jacobs Creek Recreation Area
Experience the magic of four distinct seasons at Jacobs Creek, where warm summer days invite endless water activities and cozy campfire nights. Spring brings wildflower blooms and perfect hiking weather, while autumn paints the surrounding forest in brilliant golds and crimsons. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland, with occasional snowfall creating picture-perfect scenes, though visitors should come prepared for crisp mountain temperatures.
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: Peak season aligns with the campground's open dates, from May 18 to September 18.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open seasonally from May 18 through September 18.
- Current Alerts: The campground is currently closed due to extensive damage from Hurricane Helene, including destruction of bathroom facilities. Repairs are planned, and the projected reopening is July 31, 2025.
About Jacobs Creek Recreation Area
Escape to Jacobs Creek Recreation Area, where 27 pristine campsites await on a stunning peninsula embraced by the sparkling waters of South Holston Lake. This hidden gem offers the perfect blend of modern convenience and natural beauty, with a well-maintained dump station, meandering lakeside trail, and inviting day-use areas featuring expansive grassy picnic grounds. Cool off at the designated swimming area where crystal-clear waters beckon on warm summer days.
The campground accommodates basic tent camping with no electricity or water hookups. There are 27 single-unit campsites, with no separate RV or group sites.
Historical SignificanceWhile Jacobs Creek's recorded history may be modest, the land whispers stories of the Cherokee people who once roamed these forests and the early settlers who found sanctuary in these mountains. Today, it serves as a peaceful retreat where modern adventurers create their own memories.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of four distinct seasons at Jacobs Creek, where warm summer days invite endless water activities and cozy campfire nights. Spring brings wildflower blooms and perfect hiking weather, while autumn paints the surrounding forest in brilliant golds and crimsons. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland, with occasional snowfall creating picture-perfect scenes, though visitors should come prepared for crisp mountain temperatures.
ElevationPerched at 1,780 feet above sea level, Jacobs Creek offers a refreshing mountain climate that provides natural air conditioning in summer and breathtaking vistas year-round. This perfect elevation creates an ideal balance between accessibility and that coveted mountain escape feeling.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled within a tapestry of towering hardwoods and fragrant pines, the campground offers front-row seats to nature's grand theater. The magnificent South Holston Lake stretches across 7,580 acres, its waters reflecting the surrounding forest like a massive mirror, creating endless opportunities for photography, reflection, and water-based adventures.
Geological RegionDiscover your own private paradise on this picturesque peninsula jutting into the eastern shore of South Holston Lake. Protected within Sullivan County's portion of the Cherokee National Forest, this unique geological formation creates an almost island-like camping experience, where water views and forest serenity merge seamlessly. The surrounding hardwood and pine forests showcase the diverse ecosystem of the Southern Appalachians.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThis campground does not include wheelchair-accessible toilets, and no specific accessibility features were mentioned.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious by reviewers, accommodating tents and small campers.
Sites PrivacySites are generally lakeside, offering scenic views but not much privacy due to close proximity.
Total Campsites27 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBoating and lakefront campsites are highly recommended for proximity to water activities.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 7 AM.
Check-out
Check-out deadline is 10 PM.
Stay Limit
Stay is limited to 14 days maximum.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 5 guests are permitted per campsite.
Groups
No group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 27 individual campsites spread across a wooded peninsula adjacent to South Holston Lake.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 18 through September 18.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations are accepted; all sites operate on a first-come-first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are only available on a walk-up basis as reservations are not accepted.
Cancellation PolicyAdvanced reservation cancellation policies are null. Users are refunded if the campground closure persists beyond reservation dates.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Jacobs Creek Recreation Area offers activities such as fishing, non-motorized boating, picnicking, and swimming. Its proximity to South Holston Lake enhances water-related activities.
Hiking
Jacobs Trail, a 0.3-mile trail suitable for both foot traffic and biking, is available for use.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, with species like small and largemouth bass, lake trout, crappie, and bluegill in South Holston Lake.Swimming
A designated swim site is located in the day-use area. Reviews highlight the large grassy beach area near the water.Biking
The 0.3-mile Jacobs Trail also accommodates biking.Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed. A nearby boat ramp managed by TWRA provides easy access.Wildlife viewing
One reviewer mentioned spotting a bear, suggesting opportunities for wildlife viewing.Beach activities
The beach area is described as large and grassy, suitable for relaxation and sunbathing.Winter Activities
No winter activities are explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
South Holston Lake is suitable for most water sports, though there are no details on specific activities like kayaking or paddleboarding.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are restricted to burning local wood only; no burning of plastic or non-wood products.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPossible hazards include bears, as reported by one reviewer: 'I even seen a bear campground nice.'
Active alertsThe campground is currently closed due to extensive damage from Hurricane Helene, including destruction of bathroom facilities. Repairs are planned, and the projected reopening is July 31, 2025.
Weather at Jacobs Creek Recreation Area
32
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 79%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are null.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season aligns with the campground's open dates, from May 18 to September 18.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling guidelines adhere to the Cherokee National Forest Food and Refuse Storage Requirements. Campers must store food in approved bear-proof containers or locked vehicles.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to South Holston Lake, with facilities for swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating.
Common complaintsSome reviewers noted issues with boating behavior near swimming areas and reserve site management being rude. Bathroom facilities also received mixed feedback: 'Very small and not clean.'
HostHosts Eddie and Brenda received positive feedback for their friendliness and site management.
Campground Map
Jacobs Creek Recreation Area, Tennessee
Driving directionsFrom Bristol, take US Rt. 421 east 12.5 miles to Jacobs Creek Recreation Area sign (Denton Valley Rd.). Turn left onto Denton Valley Rd. and go 1.6 miles to another Jacobs Creek Recreation Area sign (Jacobs Creek Rd.). Bear left onto Jacobs Creek Rd. and go 0.9 miles to the campground.
The road leading to the campground transitions from paved to gravel at the entrance. There may be navigation challenges due to seasonal closures or terrain changes for gravel roads.Nearby places
Bristol is approximately 12 miles northeast of the campground.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are not explicitly mentioned, but access points for boating and other services are nearby.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
44 reviews
Jacobs Creek Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise the campground for its cleanliness, scenic location by South Holston Lake, and family-friendly atmosphere. However, criticisms include the behavior of boaters near the swimming area and occasional overcrowding.
Review Summaries
Based on 44 reviews
What Campers Love
"Bathrooms are nice and clean with warm showers." "The sunsets are amazing." "Great for families and fishing." "Very friendly hosts."
Based on 44 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include issues with noisy and inconsiderate boaters near swimming areas, occasional overcrowding, and damaged bathroom facilities from the hurricane.
Based on 44 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Consider bringing your own firewood as availability is unclear. Access to the campground is on a gravel road, so drive carefully. Adhere to food storage rules due to bear activity.
Based on 44 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews highlight summer as the most popular season due to swimming and lake activities. Fall camping is limited due to seasonal closures.
Based on 44 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The absolute best place to camp! Eddie and Brenda are the most friendly hosts!" "The park was great, but the boaters made it bad." "The bathrooms are neat and clean. Nice time!" "The camping appears...
Based on 44 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites near the lake are frequently praised for their views and convenience. Specific sites (e.g., near bathrooms) receive occasional mentions but no detailed evaluations.
Based on 44 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 44 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed on leashes, and several reviews mention bringing dogs. Compliance with leash rules is enforced.
Based on 44 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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