East Campgrounds

For Tennesseans seeking a refreshing escape into the heart of our state's natural beauty, East Campgrounds, nestled within Norris Dam State Park in Anderson County, offers a quintessential camping experience. This cherished local spot provides a serene retreat, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of a wooded setting while still enjoying convenient access to modern amenities and the expansive waters of Norris Lake. Whether you're an avid RVer, a traditional tent camper, or simply looking for a peaceful base from which to explore East Tennessee, East Campgrounds presents a welcoming and picturesque environment for all. It's a place where the fresh air, towering trees, and the calm of the lake combine to create unforgettable memories for families and individuals alike.

Norris Dam State Park, encompassing East Campgrounds, is a testament to the natural and historical richness of our region. Established in the late 1930s by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), the park offers a blend of outdoor recreation and educational opportunities. The campgrounds within the park are known for their quiet and spacious sites, allowing visitors to truly unwind. The allure of East Campgrounds, specifically, lies in its ability to offer a genuine outdoor experience while maintaining facilities that ensure comfort and convenience. It's the perfect spot for those who appreciate the simple pleasures of camping, from gathering around a campfire to exploring scenic trails.

East Campgrounds is located within Norris Dam State Park, with its address linked to the larger Anderson County area, Tennessee 37705, USA. More specifically, the East Campground is situated just outside the historic district of Norris Dam State Park. Its precise location requires navigating within the park, but directions are clear for visitors. To reach the East Campground from I-75, travelers should take Exit 128 (Rocky Top) and turn left onto US-441 S (Hwy. 61) for approximately 3.7 miles, passing the west park entrance and Norris Dam Marina. After crossing Norris Dam, take the second left at the stone entrance sign for Norris Dam State Park. Following the narrow road and turning right after Shelter #2 will lead you directly to the East Campground.

This prime location places campers within easy reach of Norris Lake, a major highlight for water recreation. The park itself is a mere short drive from major cities like Knoxville, making it a convenient destination for residents across East Tennessee seeking a quick getaway. The surrounding area offers a mix of natural beauty and historical significance, with the Norris Dam itself being a notable landmark. The accessibility from major interstates ensures that East Campgrounds is a practical and desirable choice for locals looking to enjoy the outdoors without extensive travel. The park's well-maintained roads and clear signage contribute to a stress-free arrival for all visitors.

East Campgrounds, as part of Norris Dam State Park, offers a variety of services to enhance your camping experience:

• Campsites with Hookups: The East Campground provides 25 campsites equipped with water and electric hookups, suitable for RVs, trailers, and tent campers.
• Primitive Tent-Only Campsites: For those seeking a more rustic experience, the East Campground also features 10 primitive tent-only campsites. These sites are typically in a mostly shaded, forested area and do not have water or electric hookups, encouraging a more traditional camping adventure.
• Site Amenities: Each campsite, whether with hookups or primitive, includes a picnic table, a fire pit, and a grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and gathering around a campfire.
• Bathhouses: A centrally located bathhouse is available in the East Campground, providing restrooms and hot shower facilities. These are generally open year-round, ensuring comfort for campers.
• Dump Station: A dump station is conveniently located within the campground for RV users to dispose of waste.
• Firewood Availability: Firewood is available for purchase at the park office/visitor center, making it easy to enjoy campfires without having to bring your own supply.
• Coin-Operated Laundromat: A laundromat is located next to the park office, open seasonally, providing convenience for longer stays.
• Check-in/Check-out Procedures: Guests with paid reservations can proceed directly to their assigned campsite after 4:00 p.m. (ET). Late arrivals can select an available site and must complete payment with park staff or at the visitor center by 10:00 a.m. (ET) the following day. Check-out time is 12:00 p.m.

East Campgrounds, situated within the expansive Norris Dam State Park, boasts several features that make it a compelling destination for Tennessee campers:

• Scenic Wooded Setting: The campground is set in a quiet, wooded environment, offering ample shade and a true sense of being immersed in nature. Many sites are under maturing trees, providing a peaceful and private camping experience.
• Access to Norris Lake: Campers at East Campgrounds have excellent access to Norris Lake, which offers abundant opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is a major recreational draw for the region.
• Variety of Campsite Options: With both electric and water hookup sites for RVs and trailers, as well as primitive tent-only sites, East Campgrounds caters to a wide range of camping preferences, from those seeking more amenities to those desiring a rustic experience.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The presence of picnic tables, fire pits, and grills at each site, along with accessible bathhouses, makes it an ideal spot for family camping trips. The overall peaceful atmosphere contributes to a relaxing environment for all ages.
• Hiking Trails: Norris Dam State Park features over 15 miles of hiking trails, accessible from the campground area. These trails offer opportunities for exploring the diverse natural landscape and observing local wildlife.
• Historic Park Setting: Being part of Norris Dam State Park, established by the TVA, offers a unique historical dimension to the camping experience. Visitors can explore the historic district and learn about the park's origins.
• Longer Stay Options: The park allows a maximum stay of 14 nights during the in-season and 28 nights during the off-season, providing flexibility for extended vacations.
• Proximity to Park Office and Visitor Center: The convenience of having a park office and visitor center nearby means easy access to information, firewood, and other services.

While specific, ongoing promotions for East Campgrounds itself are not widely advertised, as it is part of Norris Dam State Park, Tennessee State Parks generally offer a variety of discounts that apply to their campgrounds. It is always advisable for campers to check the official Tennessee State Parks website or contact the park office directly for the most current and applicable offers.

Common discounts offered by Tennessee State Parks include:

• Tennessee Resident Discount: A 10% discount is typically available for Tennessee residents aged 18 and older with a valid state-issued photo ID. This discount often applies to most overnight accommodations, including campsites.
• Senior Discounts: Individuals aged 62 and older may receive a 25% discount on all standard camping fees during the in-season and a 50% discount during the off-season.
• Disabled Camper Discounts: Year-round camping discounts (approximately 25% off in-season and 50% off off-season) are available to residents and non-residents of Tennessee who are disabled.
• Tennessee Veterans' Discount: A 50% discount on standard nightly base rates for camping is available to Tennessee residents showing proof of prior military duty during the off-season (December 1 through February 28/29). Additional complimentary one-night stays are available on specific service branch anniversaries for eligible veterans. A 50% discount on camping and cabins is also extended to Tennessee resident veterans with a 100% total service-connected disability for reservations made within 30 days of the intended stay.

These discounts are designed to make camping in Tennessee State Parks more accessible and affordable for many residents, so always inquire when making your reservation!

For inquiries about East Campgrounds or to make a reservation, please contact Norris Dam State Park directly:

Address: Tennessee 37705, USA (The park office is located within the park at 125 Norman Lane, Rocky Top, TN 37769 for more specific navigation, but East Campgrounds is part of the larger park system in the 37705 zip code area).

Phone: While a direct line for East Campgrounds isn't commonly listed separately from the main park, you can reach Norris Dam State Park for all camping inquiries at (865) 426-7461. This number will connect you to park staff who can assist with reservations and information regarding the East Campground.

For residents across Tennessee, East Campgrounds within Norris Dam State Park is an exceptionally suitable destination for a number of compelling reasons. Its primary appeal lies in its combination of convenient accessibility and a truly authentic outdoor experience without the need for extensive travel. Nestled within a well-established state park, it offers a slice of natural tranquility that feels worlds away from urban life, yet is only a short drive for many Tennesseans, particularly those in the East Tennessee region. This makes it perfect for quick weekend getaways, mid-week escapes, or longer family vacations that prioritize relaxation and connection with nature over lengthy commutes.

The diverse camping options, including both RV sites with essential hookups and peaceful primitive tent sites, cater to a wide array of preferences. Whether you're a seasoned RVer looking for modern conveniences or a traditional tent camper seeking a back-to-basics experience, East Campgrounds accommodates your needs. The inclusion of amenities like clean bathhouses with hot showers and a dump station further enhances the comfort for all campers, ensuring that even a rustic experience can be enjoyed without sacrificing essential conveniences.

Moreover, the abundance of recreational opportunities, particularly access to Norris Lake for boating, fishing, and swimming, makes this campground a hub for water enthusiasts. Beyond the lake, the extensive network of hiking trails within Norris Dam State Park provides ample opportunity for exploration and exercise. For families, the natural setting and recreational facilities offer endless possibilities for creating cherished memories, from teaching kids to fish to enjoying evenings around a crackling campfire.

Lastly, the various discounts offered by Tennessee State Parks, including those for residents, seniors, disabled individuals, and veterans, make camping at East Campgrounds an affordable option for many local households. This commitment to accessibility ensures that the beauty and recreational opportunities of our state parks are available to a broad community. In essence, East Campgrounds offers a balanced and enriching outdoor experience that is perfectly aligned with the desires of Tennessee locals seeking relaxation, adventure, and a genuine connection to our state's stunning natural landscapes.