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Mountain Pass Campground

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Mountain Pass Campground Overview

Rating

Phone (865) 719-5199

Address 575 Benfield lane, Harrogate, TN 37752, USA

Website http://www.mountainpasscampground.com/

Hours Monday, 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday, 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday, 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday, 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday, 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Saturday, 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday, 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Mountain Pass Campground Location & Map

TennesseeClaiborne CountyHarrogate

Mountain Pass Campground About

Are you a Tennessee local yearning for a peaceful escape into nature, a place where the sounds of a flowing river replace the everyday hustle and bustle? Look no further than Mountain Pass Campground, a true hidden gem nestled in the picturesque landscape of Harrogate, TN. For those of us who appreciate the quiet beauty of our state's outdoors, this campground offers a unique opportunity to unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the simple pleasures of camping with breathtaking views.

Mountain Pass Campground is more than just a place to park your RV; it’s an invitation to a serene riverside retreat. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of the river flowing by, enjoying your morning coffee while watching the water, and spending your days listening to the birds. This is the essence of camping at Mountain Pass Campground, a place designed for relaxation and disconnecting from the digital world.

Located off the beaten path, this campground offers a welcome reprieve from crowded, bustling sites. Each space is thoughtfully designed to provide ample room between neighbors, ensuring a sense of privacy and tranquility that can be hard to find elsewhere. This focus on space and seclusion makes it an ideal spot for Tennesseans seeking genuine peace and quiet during their outdoor adventures.

While the primary allure of Mountain Pass Campground is its serene environment and stunning river views, it’s important for prospective visitors to be aware of the operational style. Like many campgrounds, there are rules in place to ensure a consistent experience for all guests and to maintain the property. Visitors are encouraged to carefully review all campground rules upon arrival, as adherence is expected. The owners prioritize maintaining a well-ordered and peaceful environment, and understanding these guidelines from the outset will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay for everyone.

Despite any individual experiences, the core appeal of Mountain Pass Campground remains its beautiful natural setting. The opportunity to relax by the river, observe local wildlife, and simply exist in a tranquil outdoor space is a significant draw. It’s a place that reminds us why we love to camp – to step away from distractions and immerse ourselves in the beauty of Tennessee's natural landscapes. For those who prioritize a quiet, scenic, and spacious camping experience, Mountain Pass Campground offers a compelling option right here in our beloved Volunteer State.

Ultimately, if your idea of a perfect camping trip involves riverside views, generous space, and a profound sense of calm, Mountain Pass Campground is certainly worth considering. It’s a destination that promises to deliver on the fundamental joys of outdoor living in a truly beautiful corner of Tennessee.

Location and Accessibility

Mountain Pass Campground is wonderfully situated at 575 Benfield Lane, Harrogate, TN 37752, USA. This address places it in a charming, somewhat secluded area of northeastern Tennessee, near the border with Kentucky and Virginia. Its location is specifically described as being "off the beaten path," meaning visitors should expect a peaceful drive through scenic rural landscapes to reach the destination. Despite being secluded, it is accessible by vehicle, making it a viable option for those with RVs, though careful navigation is always recommended on less-traveled roads. Harrogate itself is a small community known for being home to Lincoln Memorial University, and the campground's proximity to the Cumberland Gap area suggests access to a region rich in history and natural beauty, including the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. This park offers a wide array of outdoor activities such as hiking, historical sites, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, making Mountain Pass Campground a strategic base for exploring this significant natural landmark. The feeling of being 'hidden' adds to its charm, providing a true escape from urban environments. Visitors should ensure they have clear directions before heading out, as cell service can sometimes be spotty in more remote areas of Tennessee, reinforcing the "off the beaten path" nature of this gem.

Services Offered

  • RV Sites: Mountain Pass Campground primarily caters to RV campers, with sites designed to accommodate various sizes of recreational vehicles.
  • Full Hookups: While not explicitly detailed in the provided reviews, most modern RV campgrounds, especially those offering long-term leases, typically provide full hookups including electricity, water, and sewer connections for convenience.
  • River Views: All camping sites boast direct river views, enhancing the serene and picturesque camping experience.
  • Spacious Sites: Campers benefit from a significant amount of space between sites, ensuring privacy and a less crowded feel than many other campgrounds.
  • Wi-Fi Access: Wi-Fi is available, though reviews indicate it can be spotty at times. The owners are reportedly working on improving this service.
  • Long-Term Leases: The campground offers year-long leases for some sites, indicating suitability for those looking for a more permanent or seasonal base.
  • Pet-Friendly: While specific rules apply (e.g., dogs on leashes), the campground generally appears to accommodate pets, allowing you to bring your furry companions.
  • Fire Rings/Campfires: Although specific rules apply to their use and placement, fire rings are available for traditional camping experiences.

Features / Highlights

  • Serene River Views: Every site offers direct views of the river, providing a constant backdrop of natural beauty and soothing sounds.
  • Secluded "Hidden Gem" Atmosphere: The campground is praised for being "off the beaten path" and a "hidden gem," offering a true escape from crowds and noise.
  • Ample Space Between Sites: Unlike many campgrounds where sites are tightly packed, Mountain Pass provides considerable distance between units, ensuring privacy and a more relaxed environment.
  • Opportunity for Relaxation: The primary draw is the chance to relax, watch the river flow, and listen to the sounds of nature, perfect for disconnecting.
  • Friendly Owner Interaction: At least one review highlights delightful conversations with the owner, suggesting a personal and welcoming approach to guest relations.
  • Beautiful Natural Surroundings: The overall setting is described as "most beautiful," emphasizing the scenic beauty of the Tennessee landscape.
  • Ideal for Long-Term Stays: The availability of year-long leases makes it attractive for those seeking a semi-permanent base in a beautiful location.
  • Focus on Natural Experience: The emphasis is on enjoying nature rather than relying on devices, aligning with a more traditional camping philosophy.

Promotions or Special Offers

Specific, publicly advertised promotions or special offers for Mountain Pass Campground are not available in the provided information. However, the mention of "year lease" options suggests that the campground may cater to long-term stays, which often come with different pricing structures compared to nightly or weekly rates. For any current promotions, seasonal discounts, or details on long-term lease agreements, prospective campers should directly contact Mountain Pass Campground via phone. It is advisable to inquire about rates for different site types, the availability of specific dates, and any policies regarding deposits or cancellations. Given its "hidden gem" status and serene atmosphere, early booking, especially for peak seasons or desired long-term spots, would be recommended.

Contact Information

  • Address: 575 Benfield lane, Harrogate, TN 37752, USA
  • Phone: (865) 719-5199
  • Mobile Phone: +1 865-719-5199

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents of Tennessee, Mountain Pass Campground in Harrogate offers a truly unique and appealing option for escaping the everyday and immersing oneself in the natural beauty of our state. What makes this campground particularly suitable for locals is its genuine promise of tranquility and scenic beauty, without requiring extensive travel beyond our state's borders. We Tennesseans often seek out places that offer peace and quiet, a chance to truly unwind and reconnect with the outdoors, and Mountain Pass Campground delivers precisely that.

Its "off the beaten path" location means you're stepping into a more secluded and less commercialized camping experience. This appeals directly to the local desire for authenticity and a true break from the crowds. Every site offering a river view is a significant draw, providing that constant, soothing backdrop of nature that many of us cherish when camping. The ample space between sites ensures privacy, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor retreat without feeling cramped or overlooked by neighbors – a common complaint at more bustling campgrounds.

Furthermore, for those who enjoy longer stays or perhaps a seasonal retreat, the availability of year-long leases makes Mountain Pass Campground a compelling choice for a local "home away from home." It’s an opportunity to establish a recurring escape point, a place you can return to time and again to enjoy the changing seasons and the consistent beauty of the river. While it's crucial to understand and adhere to the campground's rules, this is often a hallmark of well-managed, peaceful environments that prioritize the experience of all guests.

Ultimately, Mountain Pass Campground is a testament to the understated beauty of our own backyard. It’s a place for Tennesseans to relax, unplug from devices, listen to the natural world, and create cherished memories in a truly gorgeous setting. It’s a reminder that some of the best escapes are found right here in the heart of the Volunteer State.

Customer Reviews

3.0
67 reviews
S
Sara Holzgrafe
May 20, 2025

What a hidden gem. This campground is off the beaten path and worth the drive in. All sites have a river view and there is a lot of space between sites. We met the owner and he is delightful to talk with. The wifi can be a bit spotty but they are working on it. Relaxing, watching the river flow, listening to the birds is why we camp. Not to be on our devices.

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Vicki Brown
Mar 25, 2025

Most BEAUTIFUL campground we've ever been to, but I do not respect Rick and Barbara after I slipped and fell walking down to the Riverwalk, after their campground had apparently flooded a few months prior. They have cameras everywhere so I know my fall was captured on their surveillance cameras. When I approached Rich to ask for their insurance information I was told that my husband was a con man. This fall happened in Feb 2023. I am still suffering from the effects of my fall today in 2025. I jarred myself and hit my head and back so hard my left lower dental bridge was knocked out. I am paying my monthly payments for all my dental work in 2025. I receive back and neck ESI injections and will probably need surgery within the next 2 years. We had signed a year lease and tried to ask to break it due to going home to FL due to our daughter's cancer diagnosis. We weren't allowed to break it for this family emergency. Our daughter passed away Oct 2023 Rick. Rick will retort back we were rule breakers which we were apparently. We drove 3 miles over the 5 mile speed limit first night. Left our porch light on the night after our truck alarm went off. We got warned. I understood my kayakes were to be stored under our camper but didn't understand this meant my kayak seats and paddles were not allowed. Our one storage box that was allowed wasn't placed exactly in the back where it was supposed to be. We were told one thing about fire ring by Barb to have Rick show up next day to fuss at us. I had a special cat tent for my cats I had bought especially for camping and after our first beautiful, peaceful day of enjoying my cats out in the safety of their tent, I was told nope, against the rules. I had looked at rule sheets and yes it did say all dogs on leashes but I did not see anything in the rules that said no cat tents. Our chairs were not allowed to lean against our beautiful 38 ft trailer under our awning. I can't even remember all the rules we broke but there were more. But, like I said my biggest disappointment was not being able to break our lease (3 month left, I believe we had to pay) when we were called home about our daughter. I believe Rick and Barb thought we were making it up after my hard fall. Again, sadly Catherine Brown passed at 38 year of age. I was dealing with our grief and my continous back pain from my fall after her death. We ARE NOT CON ARTIST RICK. I should have sued your asses, but due to going back to FL I really couldn't think about it. After you knew your river area had flooded months prior, emailes should have been sent to all the campers like emails were sent about everything else. Tape or signs marking the area off should have been posted for warning your campers. I thought I was a rule follower and have always appreciated rules but you really do need to read the rules carefully. Your campground is gorgeous but you and your wife were a huge disappointment as what we believed were other caring Christians and campground owners. Thank you Barbara and Rick. :(

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Pete Moffett
Apr 26, 2023

Absolutely the best campground we have ever stayed! Our camp hosts Barbara and Rick have shared their little slice of heaven with us! They put a great deal of thought and effort into this park, very well laid out, beautiful, and looks like it has been manicured, which it is. It’s so quiet, the night sky is beautiful and clear. The river is clear and cold, we didn’t fish but those who were had some good ones. We enjoyed just sitting on the riverbank listening to the running water and watching the abundant wildlife. They do have rules, read them and abide by them, that’s THE reason this little private park is so great. I have never felt safer anywhere! There are many full time residents, they too are great and friendly people, really enjoyed visiting with several of them. The road to the park is narrow but is worth the trouble, it isn’t very busy and we navigated it with no issues. That road is not theirs and is beyond their control. The locals will move over or back up if needed. Will we be back? Absolutely! Thank you Barbara & Rick for the hospitality! For those of you who plan to visit, you’ll be glad you did. Abide by the rules, it’s not a party venue, enjoy this little slice of heaven!

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Wendy Burk
Jul 15, 2018

REALLY TORN about this place. It is beautiful and very well kept. Sites are pretty level and well gravelled. It does have one of the best WiFi's we have ever seen at a campground. I could do work with no slow down on it. BUT you have ZERO cell service on AT&T or Verizon. It caters more to long term leases than overnight or weekenders. This is mostly due probably to the 5.5 mile drive off the main hwy down a little wider than a 1 lane winding road. It is paved except the last half mile but gravel road in great condition. I had no problem driving it in our 38 ft MH pulling a car but may make those not as experienced a little nervous. The long term RV's are all well maintained and neat. No trashy trailers. The river is fun to tube or kayak. The bathhouse is VERY clean and cute. Other than a swing set there are no ammenities which is fine with us. NOW my drawback and why we will not be back. We have a small cat run that we run out of our RV and nowhere in the rules did it say we could not have it out. 2 days into a 5 night stay the owners came and told us to take it down because they do not allow people with dogs to have dog runs. Apparently people with dogs complained. Now it does not say in the rules no animal runs but it is apparently a rule. Then it is the whole complaing by the dog people. It seems like the people here are unfriendly and complainers. It just put a damper on our stay.

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Two weirdos in a truck
Nov 03, 2019

This is a great place to go for some peace and quiet. I wish we could have stayed longer, but we will be back. We didn't have any trouble on the narrow road. We didn't get a cell signal but they had a wifi that worked good. A good place to get away from it all.