8411 Harrison Bay Rd

Are you a Tennessee outdoor enthusiast craving a diverse and engaging camping experience, complete with stunning lake views, ample recreational opportunities, and comfortable amenities? Look no further than Harrison Bay State Park Campground, located right on Harrison Bay Road in Harrison, Tennessee. This expansive state park is a true gem in Southeast Tennessee, offering something for every type of camper and nature lover, from avid fishermen and boaters to families seeking a relaxing getaway.

Harrison Bay State Park is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it’s a 1,200-acre haven with approximately 40 miles of Chickamauga Lake shoreline. Originally developed as a Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) recreation area in the 1930s, and later becoming Tennessee’s first state park in 1937, it holds significant historical and natural importance. The park’s name even stems from a large bay on the Tennessee River that covers the old town of Harrison and a historically significant Cherokee Campground. This rich heritage, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a truly unique destination.

For local users in Tennessee, Harrison Bay State Park Campground offers the perfect blend of accessibility, diverse activities, and well-maintained facilities. Whether you’re planning a weekend fishing trip, a family vacation filled with hiking and swimming, or a quiet retreat surrounded by nature, this campground provides an ideal setting. It's a popular choice for those from Chattanooga and the surrounding tri-state area, celebrated for its clean facilities, spacious sites, and wide array of outdoor pursuits. Let's explore in detail what makes Harrison Bay State Park Campground a premier choice for your next adventure.

Harrison Bay State Park Campground is prominently located at 8411 Harrison Bay Rd, Harrison, TN 37341, USA. This prime address places it directly on the shores of Chickamauga Lake, part of the extensive Tennessee River system, offering unparalleled access to water-based activities. The park is nestled in the Harrison community, providing a serene environment while remaining remarkably accessible to major urban centers.

The park is conveniently situated just off Highway 58, which connects directly to State Route 153 and Interstate 75. This strategic location makes it incredibly easy to reach from various parts of Tennessee and beyond. For residents of Chattanooga, the park is a mere 25-35 minutes away, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a quick weekend escape. Driving directions are straightforward: from I-75, take Exit 4 onto State Route 153, then follow Hwy 153 to the sixth exit, Hwy 58 North. From there, it's about 12 miles to Harrison Bay Road on the left, with the park entrance approximately one mile down the road.

This excellent accessibility means that campers can enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of a state park without feeling isolated. Cleveland, TN, is also within easy reach, offering additional amenities and services. The park’s proximity to these urban centers, combined with its vast natural acreage, truly offers the best of both worlds for Tennessee locals looking for convenient outdoor adventures. Whether you're towing a large RV or arriving with a tent, the well-maintained roads leading to and within the park ensure a smooth arrival.

Harrison Bay State Park Campground offers a comprehensive range of services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all types of campers. The park prioritizes convenience and access to essential amenities, reflecting its status as a premier state park destination:

• RV Campsites: The campground features 128 RV campsites equipped with water and electrical hookups (30 and 50 amp connections available). A limited number of these sites can accommodate large RVs up to 65 feet, making it friendly for big rigs. While some sites may require leveling blocks, they offer ample space for slide-outs and tow vehicle parking.
• Tent-Only Campsites: For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, there are 27 designated tent-only campsites, primarily located in Area D. These sites do not have water or electrical hookups, but a centralized water spigot is available nearby. All tent sites include a grill and fire ring.
• Centralized Dumping Station: A convenient, centralized dumping station is available for RVers, allowing for easy wastewater disposal.
• Bathhouses: Clean and well-maintained bathhouses with restrooms and hot showers are located in each of the four camping areas (A, B, C, and D), ensuring comfort and hygiene for all campers.
• Camp Store: A camp store is available, offering last-minute camping essentials, drinks, souvenirs, t-shirts, and educational materials. Firewood is also available for purchase.
• ADA-Accessible Pier: The park features an ADA-accessible pier, promoting inclusivity for all visitors who wish to enjoy fishing or boating.
• Free Guest Wi-Fi: Good cell service and free guest Wi-Fi are available in certain areas, allowing campers to stay connected if desired.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome in designated areas, though some restrictions may apply.

Harrison Bay State Park Campground is renowned for its extensive features and highlights that cater to a wide array of outdoor interests, making it a standout destination in Tennessee:

• Chickamauga Lake Shoreline Access: With nearly 40 miles of shoreline on Chickamauga Lake, the park is a paradise for water enthusiasts. All types of boats and water recreational vehicles are allowed, and it boasts one of the most complete marina facilities on any TVA lake. This makes it ideal for boating, paddling, and swimming.
• Excellent Fishing: The lake is a terrific fishery, holding abundant large and smallmouth bass, as well as crappie, making it a haven for anglers. Fishing by the bank is also popular.
• Golf Course: The scenic Bear Trace Golf Course, a Jack Nicklaus-designed track, is located within the park, offering a premier golfing experience for enthusiasts.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: The park features a 4.5-mile loop trail perfect for trail running, family hikes, or an introduction to single-track mountain biking. The trail winds around a peninsula, offering beautiful lake views.
• Swimming Pool and Sandy Beach Area: The park offers a swimming pool (check for seasonal availability) and a beautiful sandy beach area, which is a hit with families and great for kids to play and swim.
• Playgrounds: Playgrounds are available in each of the four camping areas, providing entertainment for younger campers.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to various wildlife, and visitors have reported seeing deer and wild birds. There are even owls and hawks in cages near the front entrance, adding an educational element.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Reviews frequently highlight the cleanliness of the facilities, including bathrooms and showers, which are often cleaned daily.
• Historical Significance: The park’s history as the first Tennessee State Park and its connection to Cherokee villages add a unique cultural dimension to the natural experience.

As a Tennessee State Park, Harrison Bay State Park Campground generally offers consistent and competitive nightly rates for its campsites. While specific short-term "promotions" in the commercial sense are not typically advertised, state parks often provide inherent value through their extensive amenities and natural settings at affordable prices.

However, specific discounts may be available:

• Senior Discounts: Many state parks offer reduced rates for seniors. It is advisable to inquire about these when making a reservation.
• Off-Season Rates: During the off-season (e.g., typically late fall to early spring, excluding holidays), rates might be lower due to reduced demand.
• Package Deals: While not common for individual campsites, some state parks may offer packages if combined with other park activities or accommodations.

Reservations for campsites at Harrison Bay State Park can be made online through the Tennessee State Parks website. Nightly rates vary based on date and availability, and a non-refundable $5 reservation fee applies per site. It is highly recommended to book campsites in advance, especially during peak seasons, as popular sites (like those in loop A for RVs or tent-only Area D) can be reserved far in advance.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on rates, availability, and any specific policies, visiting the official Tennessee State Parks website for Harrison Bay State Park or calling the park office directly is always the best approach.

To plan your visit, make reservations, or for any inquiries about Harrison Bay State Park Campground, you can use the following contact details:

• Address: 8411 Harrison Bay Rd, Harrison, TN 37341, USA
• Park Office Phone: (423) 344-6214
• Camp Store Phone: (423) 344-7966 (for camping essentials, check hours of operation)
• Email: ask.tnstateparks@tn.gov
• Website: Official Tennessee State Parks website for Harrison Bay State Park (recommended for reservations and detailed information)

The park office hours are generally Monday-Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with extended hours during August. Park hours are typically 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM for day-use visitors, and campgrounds have specific quiet hours. Calling ahead for specific inquiries or using the online reservation system is highly encouraged.

For residents of Tennessee, Harrison Bay State Park Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Its multifaceted offerings cater directly to the desires and needs of locals seeking convenient, high-quality, and diverse outdoor experiences close to home.

Firstly, its unparalleled access to Chickamauga Lake, with 40 miles of shoreline and a complete marina, makes it a dream come true for local boaters, anglers, and water sports enthusiasts. Owning a boat in Tennessee means you’re always looking for great access points, and Harrison Bay delivers. Whether it’s a quick fishing trip or a full day of boating with the family, the convenience is unmatched.

Secondly, the park’s wide array of land-based activities – from the challenging golf course to well-maintained hiking and biking trails, and amenities like a swimming pool and playgrounds – ensures that there’s always something to do for every age and interest. This makes it an ideal spot for family vacations or weekend getaways, offering diverse entertainment without the need for extensive travel.

Finally, as a Tennessee State Park, Harrison Bay is managed to high standards, offering clean facilities, hot showers, and a safe, well-maintained environment. This reliability, combined with its historical significance and natural beauty, provides a value that goes beyond just a nightly rate. For locals in the Chattanooga area and broader Southeast Tennessee, Harrison Bay State Park Campground is not just a campground; it’s a cherished community asset offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, relaxation, and connecting with nature, all within easy reach of home.