Big Ridge - Group Camp

Are you a Tennessee local looking for the perfect spot to gather your church group, scouting troop, or extended family for an unforgettable outdoor experience? Look no further than Big Ridge - Group Camp in Maynardville, TN. Nestled in the heart of East Tennessee, this exceptional campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty, ample amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it ideal for large gatherings seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Big Ridge - Group Camp is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a dedicated facility designed to accommodate larger groups, fostering community and creating lasting memories. Imagine waking up to the sounds of nature, surrounded by lush forests and the serene waters of Norris Lake. This destination provides a refreshing escape from the daily grind, allowing you to reconnect with loved ones and the great outdoors right here in our beautiful home state.

The reviews speak for themselves, with visitors consistently praising the welcoming staff and the pristine environment. One happy camper shared, "Very nice people. Very safe campgrounds. Cleanest lake I ever seen. Best camping in the area. We will be back." Another highlighted the positive community experience: "We had a great time there with our Jesus Family. It was healing and The Holy Spirit sure was there." These testimonials reflect the commitment of Big Ridge - Group Camp to providing a safe, clean, and spiritually enriching experience for all who visit.

Big Ridge - Group Camp is conveniently located in Maynardville, TN 37807, USA. This prime location in East Tennessee makes it easily accessible for residents across the state, offering a relatively short drive for many who are looking to escape to nature without traveling too far from home. The campground is part of the larger Big Ridge State Park, a heavily forested, 3,687-acre park situated in the Appalachian Ridge and Valley range. This topographical feature contributes to the park's stunning scenery, including the beautiful Big Ridge Lake, which is a split-off of the larger Norris Lake.

The park's address, 1015 Big Ridge Park Road, Maynardville, TN 37807, serves as the main access point. While Big Ridge State Park offers various camping options, including individual campsites and rustic cabins, the Group Camp specifically caters to larger parties, providing dedicated facilities for their needs. The accessible Visitors' Center, along with accessible sanitary facilities, campsites, a picnic shelter, and a dining hall at the Group Camp Area, demonstrates a commitment to accessibility for all visitors. The park's design reflects the historic craftsmanship and stonework of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), adding a touch of historical charm to your stay.

• Dedicated Group Camp Area: Designed to accommodate up to 120 people, making it perfect for large gatherings.
• Screened-in Bunkhouses: The group camp includes 18 screened-in bunkhouses, providing a comfortable and bug-free sleeping environment.
• Water Hookups: Each individual campsite within the wider park, and presumably available for group camp use, offers water hookups.
• Electrical Hookups: 50-amp electrical hookups are available at sites, supporting RVs and other electrical needs.
• Picnic Tables and Grills: Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a grill for outdoor cooking and dining.
• Bathhouses with Hot Showers: Clean and well-maintained bathhouses with hot showers are available for camper convenience.
• Dump Station: A facility for emptying RV wastewater tanks.
• Potable Water: Available throughout the campground.
• Firewood for Sale: Conveniently available at the park for campfires.
• Accessible Facilities: The park features an accessible Visitors' Center, campsites, picnic shelter, and a dining hall at the group camp area, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.

• Norris Lake Access: Enjoy direct access to the beautiful Norris Lake, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is noted for its cleanliness by visitors.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: Over 15 miles of diverse hiking trails, ranging from easy to very rugged. Explore dry ridges, lush hollows, old roadbeds, lakeshores, and historical remnants of early settlements.
• Swimming Beach: A sandy beach next to Big Ridge Lake with a concrete-bottomed area, perfect for children to swim and play safely.
• Sports Facilities: The park boasts sand volleyball courts, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, a basketball court, and a softball field.
• Historic Norton Grist Mill: A historical point of interest within the park.
• Wheelchair Accessible Playground: An inclusive playground adjacent to the park office, offering play experiences for children of all ages and abilities.
• Wildlife Viewing: The heavily forested area provides opportunities for observing local wildlife.
• CCC Structures and Stonework: The park's infrastructure reflects the historical craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps, adding to its unique character.
• Seasonal Activities: The park offers various seasonal programs and events, such as guided nature walks, history hikes, and even moonlight kayak floats.

While specific, ongoing promotions for Big Ridge - Group Camp are not consistently advertised in public information, Tennessee State Parks often feature various programs and events throughout the year. It's always a good idea for group organizers to directly contact the park or visit the Tennessee State Parks website for the most current information on potential group discounts, seasonal specials, or special events that might align with your visit. Booking well in advance is often recommended, especially for group accommodations, to ensure availability and potentially inquire about any applicable rates for larger parties. Keep an eye on the official Tennessee State Parks website for announcements regarding special pricing or packages tailored for groups.

To learn more or to make a reservation for Big Ridge - Group Camp, please use the following contact details:

Address: Maynardville, TN 37807, USA (Note: The specific park address is 1015 Big Ridge Park Road, Maynardville, TN 37807 for GPS navigation.)

Phone: (800) 471-5305

Mobile Phone: +1 800-471-5305

It is advisable to call ahead, especially for group bookings, to confirm availability and discuss your specific needs. The park staff are often very helpful in assisting with planning and providing detailed information about the facilities and activities.

For anyone in Tennessee seeking an enriching and accessible outdoor group experience, Big Ridge - Group Camp stands out as an exceptional choice. Its proximity to major East Tennessee population centers means less travel time and more time enjoying the beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities. As locals, we understand the charm of the Appalachian Ridge and Valley, and this campground allows you to fully immerse yourselves in it.

The dedicated group camp facilities, including bunkhouses and a large capacity, are specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of large gatherings, whether it's a youth group, a family reunion, or a corporate retreat. This ensures a smoother, more organized, and ultimately more enjoyable experience for everyone involved. The ample opportunities for hiking, swimming in the "cleanest lake," and engaging in various sports activities mean there's something for every age and interest, ensuring no one is left out.

Furthermore, the consistently positive customer reviews, highlighting the friendly staff and the safe, clean environment, provide peace of mind. Knowing that you're visiting a well-maintained and welcoming establishment right in your home state adds to the appeal. Big Ridge - Group Camp isn't just a destination; it's an opportunity to strengthen bonds, create new traditions, and appreciate the natural wonders that make Tennessee such a special place to live. It's a true gem for locals looking for a memorable outdoor adventure close to home.