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Fox Fire Riverside Campground

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Fox Fire Riverside Campground Overview

Rating

Phone (502) 641-5369

Address 3541 Hartford Rd, Hartford, TN 37753, USA

Website http://www.foxfireriversidecamp.com/

Hours

Fox Fire Riverside Campground Location & Map

TennesseeCocke CountyHartfordHartford Road

Fox Fire Riverside Campground About

Are you a Tennessee adventurer seeking the perfect basecamp for exploring the breathtaking beauty and thrilling activities of the Great Smoky Mountains? Look no further than Fox Fire Riverside Campground, a beautiful and welcoming destination nestled along the banks of the Big Pigeon River in Hartford, TN. Praised by many as a "beautiful campground" with a "very nice and helpful" manager, Fox Fire offers a unique blend of natural serenity and convenient access to the region's most exciting attractions. For locals, this means finding a go-to spot that effortlessly combines relaxation with adventure, making it an ideal choice for weekend getaways or extended outdoor excursions.

Fox Fire Riverside Campground is designed to cater to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts, from those who prefer the simplicity of tent camping to families seeking the comfort of a cabin or RVers looking for full hookups. The campground spans 17 private acres, providing a sense of seclusion and connection with nature, all while being just a quarter-mile from the I-40 Exit 447. This blend of accessibility and natural immersion is a key feature, allowing you to quickly transition from the road to the riverside, ready for your next adventure or a peaceful evening by the campfire.

The strategic location of Fox Fire Riverside Campground is truly a highlight. Situated in prime whitewater rafting territory, it's just minutes away from outfitters like Rip Roaring Adventures, making it incredibly convenient for those eager to experience the thrill of the Pigeon River. Beyond rafting, the campground serves as a gateway to extensive hiking opportunities, being minutes from the Big Creek entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, as well as the Cherokee National Forest and Martha Sundquist State Forest. This means that whether your passion lies in water sports or exploring mountain trails, Fox Fire puts you right in the heart of the action, ready to create unforgettable memories.

While one review mentions a less positive experience regarding pricing and a sewer issue, the overall sentiment for Fox Fire Riverside Campground, especially from those who had a "great time," emphasizes its beautiful setting, helpful staff, and excellent amenities. The availability of a "great pavilion" for cooking and gathering, clean shower houses, and even WiFi, indicates a commitment to guest comfort and convenience. The management's proactive approach, like informing guests about incoming rain and advising on ice money placement, reflects a dedication to a positive visitor experience. This focus on guest needs, combined with the stunning natural backdrop, ensures that most visitors find their stay both enjoyable and well-supported.

For Tennessee locals, Fox Fire Riverside Campground offers a compelling blend of thrilling outdoor adventure and serene riverside relaxation. Its diverse accommodation options, strategic location for rafting and hiking, and the commitment to a pleasant camping experience make it an excellent choice for individuals, families, and groups looking to truly immerse themselves in the beauty and excitement of the Great Smoky Mountains region. It's a place where you can switch off, explore, and rejuvenate, all within a convenient drive from home.

Location and Accessibility

Fox Fire Riverside Campground is perfectly situated at 3541 Hartford Rd, Hartford, TN 37753, USA. This highly accessible location is a significant advantage for Tennessee locals, as it's just a quarter-mile from I-40 Exit 447. This means easy navigation and quick access from various parts of the state, minimizing travel time and maximizing your outdoor enjoyment. Nestled within the picturesque foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the campground offers a genuine sense of being immersed in nature while remaining conveniently connected to major roadways.

Its strategic position along the banks of the Big Pigeon River makes it a prime location for water-based activities. Furthermore, Fox Fire Riverside Campground is minutes away from the Big Creek entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, as well as the Cherokee National Forest and Martha Sundquist State Forest. This unparalleled proximity to some of Tennessee's most renowned natural areas ensures that hiking, fishing, and whitewater rafting opportunities are literally at your doorstep. While Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are approximately an hour's drive away, providing access to more commercial attractions, Fox Fire offers a more direct and natural outdoor experience right in the heart of the adventure, making it an ideal basecamp for any Tennessee outdoor enthusiast.

Services Offered
  • Tent Camping: Offers shaded riverside tent camping sites, providing a traditional camping experience with scenic views.
  • RV Camping: Provides RV camping sites with electrical hookups (30 AMP and 50 AMP available), ensuring convenience for RVers.
  • Cabin Rentals: Features Kamper Kabins and larger Cabins, offering comfortable alternatives to tent or RV camping, some with mini-fridges and microwaves.
  • Cottage Rental: A cottage is available, capable of accommodating up to 7 guests, complete with a full kitchen, TV, and WiFi for a more home-like experience.
  • Clean Restrooms and Showers: Boasts large, clean shower houses and restrooms for guest comfort.
  • Covered Pavilion: A "great pavilion" is available, likely for rent, providing a communal space for cooking and gatherings.
  • Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring for campfires and outdoor cooking.
  • Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase on the campground, ensuring convenience for campfires.
  • WiFi Access: Offers Wi-Fi connectivity on-site, allowing guests to stay connected if desired.
  • Private River Access & Take-Out: Provides direct access to the Big Pigeon River and a private take-out point, particularly useful for rafting and kayaking groups (nominal fee applies for boat use).
  • Ice Sales: Offers ice for sale, a convenient amenity for campers.
Features / Highlights
  • Riverside Location: Nestled directly on the Big Pigeon River, offering beautiful views and direct access for water activities.
  • Prime Whitewater Rafting Access: Located in "prime white water rafting territory," just minutes from outfitters, making it an ideal base for rafting adventures.
  • Gateway to National Forests/Parks: Minutes from the Big Creek entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee National Forest, and Martha Sundquist State Forest, providing extensive hiking opportunities.
  • Diverse Accommodation Options: Offers a wide range of choices including shaded tent sites, RV sites with hookups, comfortable cabins, and a spacious cottage.
  • Helpful and Friendly Management: Praised for having a "very nice and helpful" manager who provides useful information and assistance.
  • Clean Facilities: Features "large clean shower house and restrooms," ensuring a comfortable and hygienic stay.
  • Communal Pavilion: A "great pavilion" offers a convenient space for cooking and group gatherings.
  • On-Site WiFi: Provides internet access, a valuable amenity for many travelers.
  • Convenient Location off I-40: Extremely easy to access, being just a quarter-mile from I-40 Exit 447.
  • Pet-Friendly: (Based on AAA listing, "Pet friendly (call for restrictions/fees.)") Allows pets, making it suitable for those traveling with their furry companions.
Promotions or Special Offers

Based on the provided information, Fox Fire Riverside Campground's pricing varies by site type and accommodation (tent, RV, cabin, cottage) and generally maintains standard rates. While no specific "promotions" or "special offers" like seasonal discounts or package deals are explicitly mentioned in the reviews, the campground does highlight its value through its amenities and location. Potential "offers" or benefits for South Carolina locals might include:

  • Group Rates: Given that "Rafting and Kayaking groups and scout troops are always welcome," it's highly probable that special group rates are available for larger parties. Interested groups should inquire directly.
  • Competitive Pricing for Location: As a campground directly adjacent to the Pigeon River and near major attractions, its published rates (e.g., $40 for riverside tent sites, $50-55 for RV sites, cabins from $90) offer competitive value for the convenience and amenities provided in this popular area.
  • River Use Fee: A nominal fee of $10 per day, per boat for the use of their private river take-out for rafting and kayaking groups could be seen as an affordable convenience for those bringing their own watercraft.

For the most current rates, specific group pricing, and to inquire about any seasonal specials that may not be widely advertised, it is highly recommended to contact Fox Fire Riverside Campground directly using the provided phone numbers or visiting their official website. Reservations are advisable, especially during peak whitewater rafting season or holidays, to ensure availability.

Contact Information

Address: 3541 Hartford Rd, Hartford, TN 37753, USA

Phone: (502) 641-5369

Mobile Phone: +1 502-641-5369

Email: info@foxfireriversidecamp.com (from website information)

Website: foxfireriversidecamp.com (from public data)

For reservations, questions about site availability, cabin or cottage rentals, or any other inquiries to plan your Smoky Mountains adventure, please contact Fox Fire Riverside Campground directly via phone or email. Their friendly and helpful staff will be delighted to assist you in making your stay a memorable one.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Fox Fire Riverside Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for Tennessee locals seeking a versatile and engaging outdoor experience right in their own state. Its strategic location in Hartford, just off I-40 and on the Big Pigeon River, makes it incredibly accessible for a quick weekend escape or a longer vacation, minimizing travel time and maximizing enjoyment. For thrill-seekers, the immediate proximity to prime whitewater rafting territory means adrenaline-pumping adventures are literally minutes away. Meanwhile, the direct access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee National Forest, and Martha Sundquist State Forest provides endless opportunities for serene hiking, wildlife viewing, and immersing oneself in the breathtaking natural beauty that Tennessee is famous for.

The campground's diverse range of accommodations, from shaded tent sites to RV hookups and comfortable cabins and cottages, ensures there's a perfect fit for every type of camper, family size, and budget. This flexibility makes it easy for any Tennessee resident to tailor their outdoor experience to their specific preferences. The commitment to cleanliness, the provision of essential amenities like hot showers and WiFi, and the generally helpful demeanor of the management (as highlighted by many positive reviews) contribute significantly to a comfortable and worry-free stay. While a past negative experience with pricing and a sewer issue was noted, the overall sentiment points to a well-regarded and enjoyable campground for the vast majority of visitors.

For Tennessee locals, Fox Fire Riverside Campground offers a compelling blend of convenience, adventure, and natural beauty. It's a place where you can easily plan a day of high-octane rafting followed by a peaceful evening by the river, or use it as a comfortable base to explore the vast network of mountain trails. It truly embodies the spirit of outdoor recreation that defines our state, making it an ideal choice for families, friends, and solo adventurers looking to create lasting memories in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.

Customer Reviews

4.0
218 reviews
D
Dale Royse
May 11, 2025

We had a great time! Beautiful campground. The manager was very nice and helpful. He let us know where our spot was and also made us aware of some rain that was in the forecast. Also, where to put the money for ice. Great pavilion and we cooked there twice. We stayed two nights and went whitewater rafting one day and hiking the next day.

J
Joe Stevener
Feb 20, 2025

Not a very good experience. We were quoted one price and arrived to find the price was higher. After staying for a few months for work campground representatives wanted to raise the rates again. Also the camper on the end had the campground sewer line explode all over there site twice. Campground representatives just put lime on the sewage and left it.

M
Michael Peffer
Aug 22, 2024

Riverside spots are very nice and there is a nice, dense canopy of trees high above for shade. Very close to the corner stores for food and drinks. The bathrooms and showers were cleaned every day that I was there. Showers have wooden floorboards with spacing in between that can feel harsh on bare feet. Very clean, just bring sandals for the showers for comfort anyways. Great place! Sites 1-3 were where we stayed.

F
Fleetwood Caton
Jun 16, 2024

I recently had the pleasure of staying at this campground and I must say, it exceeded all of my expectations. The cleanliness of the showers with hot water was outstanding. The entire campground was spotless, the staff clearly takes pride in maintaining the grounds. One of my favorite parts of the stay was the tents camping was located right on the river. Waking up to the sound of the water flowing was so peaceful and serene. It truly felt like a slice of heaven. The quietness of the campground added to the overall relaxing atmosphere. The staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating, always willing to help with any questions or requests. I felt welcomed from the moment I arrived until the moment I left. I also appreciated the fact that firewood was available (even though it was a little damp) for purchase at such a reasonable price (cheaper than local stores). It made it easy to enjoy a cozy campfire each evening without breaking the bank. It is crucial to always pay attention to signs warning of fast rising water, especially when crossing a river. As a 200 lb man, I learned the hard way that even a small increase in water levels can make a significant difference in the difficulty of crossing. In just 20 minutes, the river had risen two or three feet, and I struggled to make it back across safely with such a strong current. It is important to prioritize safety and take any warnings or signs seriously to avoid putting oneself in a dangerous situation. If I had had my kids with me I would have had to spend the night on the bank across the river. Overall, I had a fantastic experience at this campground and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful and enjoyable camping experience. I will definitely be returning in the future.

G
Greg Barnett
Aug 07, 2024

Great river side primitive camping. Fantastic location for kayaking. Also, easy access to all the rafting companies on the Pigeon River. Hartford has a good number of food trucks and eateries. Zip lining is close as well. Lots to do and relaxing by the river is close at hand.