Little Oak Campground

4.50

119 reviews

Camp Tom Howard Rd, Sullivan County, Tennessee, USA

Summer Destination

Featured in:Boating Camping Tennessee Hidden Gem Campgrounds Tennessee Family-Friendly Campgrounds Tennessee +2 more

Quick Facts

1,760 ft

Price

$10 - $12/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

70 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Cherokee National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,760 ft

Price

$10 - $12/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

70 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Cherokee National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Little Oak Campground

$10.00 - $12.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping is $12 per site starting late April through mid-October, including water and hot showers. $10 per site during shoulder seasons (early-late...

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

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USFS

Provider

423-735-1547

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What Campers Say

4.50

Top-Rated

Based on 119 reviews

110 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanshowerslake

"User reviews are mixed, with general praise for the campground's peaceful atmosphere, lake views, and wildlife. Negative comments target the hosts' behavior, maintenance issues, and restrictive rules."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Camp Tom Howard Rd, Sullivan County, Tennessee, USA

Little Oak Campground

Camp Tom Howard Rd, Sullivan County, Tennessee, USA

Driving directionsFrom Bristol, TN, take US Rt. 421 east 12.5 miles to Little Oak Recreation Area sign (Camp Tom Howard Rd.). Turn right onto Camp Tom Howard Rd. and go 6.6 miles to Little Oak campground sign. Continue straight past the sign onto Forest Rt. 87G for 1.6 miles into the campground.

The campground is accessible via paved roads, including Camp Tom Howard Road and Forest Road #87, but requires navigating twisty and somewhat narrow roads, especially for trailers. Forest Road #87G leads directly to the campground.

Nearby places

Bristol, TN: Approximately 12.5 miles, 25 minutes of travel time.

Nearby supplies

Nearest grocery and gas station: Bristol, TN, approximately 12.5 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Little Oak Campground

Each season paints Little Oak with its own palette of experiences. Spring arrives with gentle warmth and wildflower blooms, while autumn transforms the hardwood canopy into a brilliant tapestry of gold and crimson. Summer brings long, warm days perfect for lake adventures and starlit evenings around the campfire. The shoulder seasons offer mild, dry conditions ideal for hiking and wildlife watching. Winter visitors should come prepared for the mountain's moods—crisp mornings that may dip below freezing and occasional dustings of snow that transform the landscape into a serene wonderland. Throughout the year, be ready for the region's characteristic afternoon showers that keep the forest lush and the lake full.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 17% in TN

Peak season for boating and fishing; many positive summer reviews about water activities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall foliage widely praised in reviews; scenic hardwood canopy highlighted.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring brings wildflowers, warming weather and active wildlife/fishing opportunities.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed Nov 3–Apr 7; winter season not applicable.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Late April through mid-October.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open seasonally from April 7, 2025, to November 3, 2025.
Current Alerts: No current warnings or advisories reported.

About Little Oak Campground

Nestled on a picturesque peninsula where the Cherokee National Forest meets the sparkling waters of South Holston Lake, Little Oak Campground invites you to experience nature's perfect balance of forest and water. This treasured retreat features 70 thoughtfully designed, universally accessible sites spread across five distinctive loops—Lone Pine, Big Oak, Hemlock, and the twin Poplar loops—each offering its own character and charm. Whether you wake to sunrise reflections dancing across the lake from your waterfront site or enjoy the dappled sunlight filtering through ancient hardwoods, you'll discover why generations of families return to this lakeside sanctuary year after year.

Little Oak Campground primarily caters to tent camping, with universally accessible sites offering lake views or direct access. RV camping is limited by the inoperable dump station and lack of hookups.

Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Little Oak with its own palette of experiences. Spring arrives with gentle warmth and wildflower blooms, while autumn transforms the hardwood canopy into a brilliant tapestry of gold and crimson. Summer brings long, warm days perfect for lake adventures and starlit evenings around the campfire. The shoulder seasons offer mild, dry conditions ideal for hiking and wildlife watching. Winter visitors should come prepared for the mountain's moods—crisp mornings that may dip below freezing and occasional dustings of snow that transform the landscape into a serene wonderland. Throughout the year, be ready for the region's characteristic afternoon showers that keep the forest lush and the lake full.

ElevationPerched at 1,760 feet above sea level, Little Oak Campground offers a refreshing mountain climate where summer heat gives way to cool evening breezes and morning mists rise mysteriously from the lake. This elevated position gifts visitors with sweeping mountain vistas that stretch across the horizon, while the altitude provides a natural respite from valley heat. Here, the air feels cleaner, the stars shine brighter, and the gentle mountain atmosphere creates the perfect setting for restorative outdoor adventures.

Natural Features and SceneryLittle Oak Campground is a living gallery where nature performs daily. Towering hardwoods create a verdant canopy overhead, their branches home to chattering squirrels and melodious songbirds. The campground's designation as a Watchable Wildlife Area means encounters with deer grazing at dawn, wild turkeys strutting through campsites, and great blue herons fishing along the shoreline are delightfully common. Two interpretive trails wind through this natural theater, revealing hidden wildflower meadows, teaching moments about the forest ecosystem, and breathtaking vantage points over South Holston Lake. The ever-changing lake itself serves as the campground's centerpiece, its moods shifting from mirror-calm mornings perfect for paddling to afternoon breezes that beckon sailors and create gentle waves lapping at the shore.

Geological RegionThe campground claims a privileged position on a peninsula jutting into the eastern shore of South Holston Lake, where the ancient Appalachian landscape meets modern recreation. This unique geography creates an almost island-like experience, with water views in multiple directions and cooling lake breezes from every angle. The surrounding Cherokee National Forest showcases the region's characteristic mixed hardwood ecosystem, where oak, hickory, and maple trees thrive in the rich mountain soil. The mountainous terrain provides a dramatic backdrop, with ridges and valleys creating ever-changing plays of light and shadow across the landscape. This convergence of lake, forest, and mountain defines not just the scenery but the very soul of the camping experience at Little Oak.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in starts at 7:00 AM.

Check-out

Must vacate by 10:00 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 5 guests per site.

Groups

Group site features are not explicitly mentioned in authoritative content or user reviews.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampground is divided into five loops: Lone Pine, Big Oak, Hemlock, and two Poplar loops. Most sites are near or adjacent to the lake.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are first-come, first-served, but this availability can vary, and reservations via Recreation.gov are recommended.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled through Recreation.gov, and specific policies for penalties are available on the platform.

AccessibilityThe campground features universally accessible sites, and its location on a peninsula provides easy access to trails and lake views. Accessibility for toilets and showers, however, has not been specified.

Site SizeCampsites are described as ample and spacious by user reviews.

PrivacySites offer semi-privacy; users report that neighboring campsites are sufficiently spaced to ensure tranquility.

Total Campsites70 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose lakefront sites for direct water access and serene views.

Amenities available

Showers

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Little Oak Campground offers a range of activities centered around its location adjacent to South Holston Lake. Notable options include fishing, boating, and hiking trails. Wildlife viewing is emphasized due to the area's designation as a 'Watchable Wildlife Area.' However, swimming is specifically prohibited.

HikingTwo trails are available: Little Oak Mountain Trail (1.4 miles) and Little Oak Trail (foot and bike, 1.4 miles). User reviews praise the scenic and peaceful walking areas.

FishingFishing opportunities include small and largemouth bass, lake trout, crappie, and bluegill. A fish-cleaning hut is located near the boat ramp.

BikingThe Little Oak Trail supports biking activities, although reviews do not offer detailed insights into the terrain or difficulty levels.

BoatingBoating is a popular activity, with both motorized and non-motorized options available. A concrete boat ramp serves registered campers and their guests. Users report convenient lake access directly from some campsites.

Wildlife viewingThe campground is a designated Watchable Wildlife Area, offering opportunities for observing local fauna. User reviews highlight sightings of eagles and other wildlife.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear activity requires adherence to strict food storage rules. Narrow and twisty roads can be challenging for large RVs or trailers.

Active AlertsNo current warnings or advisories reported.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof food storage lockers are not provided, but strict food storage rules apply.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted but restricted to burning local wood only; plastic and non-wood products are prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours enforced after 10:00 PM.

Emergency ServicesNearest hospital: Bristol Regional Medical Center, approximately 20 miles away. Ranger station: Cherokee National Forest ranger station, contact: 423-735-1547.

Trash & RecyclingTrash disposal facilities are available, but recycling options are not detailed in the provided sources.

Water FeaturesLocated on South Holston Lake, the campground offers direct lake access, a concrete boat ramp, and opportunities for fishing, sailing, and motorized boating.

Camp HostMixed reviews from visitors regarding host behavior, professionalism, and helpfulness.

Weather at Little Oak Campground

Reviews

4.5

119 reviews

Top-Rated

Little Oak Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are mixed, with general praise for the campground's peaceful atmosphere, lake views, and wildlife. Negative comments target the hosts' behavior, maintenance issues, and restrictive rules.

Review Summaries

Based on 119 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include 'spectacular' semi-private spots, clean bathrooms and showers, helpful camp hosts, beautiful lake views, and ample space between campsites.

Based on 119 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include unprofessional behavior by hosts, lack of site availability due to reservation inconsistencies, poor bathroom and shower maintenance, and too many restrictive rules.

Based on 119 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

User tips include arriving early for first-come, first-served sites, bringing extra supplies due to the drive to nearby stores, and being respectful of quiet hours.

Based on 119 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Positive reviews emphasize beautiful foliage during fall, while complaints mention closed facilities and disrespectful neighbors. Summer reviews highlight the availability of boating and fishing.

Based on 119 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Beautiful campground on a beautiful lake.' - Angie Pangie 2. 'Went back camping and it was spectacular, semi-private spots, great walking trails.' - Jessica 3. 'Nice showers and bathrooms, almost...

Based on 119 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Many users praise lakeside sites for their convenient access to boating and fishing, while complaints target inconsistent reservations for first-come, first-served sites.

Based on 119 reviews