2023 Best Places to Camp in the Southeast Region
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COMING SOON
JULY 2022
Credit: Chuck V
Location: Leesburg, AL
What makes it great:
Cherokee Rock Village is perched atop Lookout Mountain and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The rock formations, including sandstone cliffs, boulders and rock spires, attract climbers and hikers from all over the country. The park also features several hiking trails, including a 4.6-mile loop trail that leads visitors through the rock formations with views of the valley below.
A peaceful and secluded setting, Cherokee Rock Village is primitive camping at its finest, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the outdoors. The campsites are located in a wooded area that is an ideal tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“This is a really great place to rock climb! They have RV hookups, tent camping and primitive camping! I recommend to try and camp under an overhang! It's just really cool. There's also a really easy climb to overlook Weiss Lake! We were literally among the clouds!” — Shea M
“This place blew me away!! Campsites are only $10 for the night which is truly a bargain when you see what you get. The campground is used mainly for rock climbing and the rock formations are incredible. You are way up on a mountain and the views are spectacular. You can pick a spot right next to a mountain rock or pick a spot with views for miles and miles that are breathtaking.” — Danielle L
Campground Details
Price: $0-$35
Number of sites: More than 100 primitive sites and 15 RV sites
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
Pets allowed: Y
1. Cherokee Rock Village — Alabama
Credit: Aida K
Location: Santa Rosa Beach, FL
What makes it great:
Grayton Beach State Park features more than 2,000 acres of protected sand dunes, coastal scrub and pine forests. The park's sandy beaches are consistently rated among the best in the country, with clear waters for swimming, fishing and snorkeling. Potential outdoor activities abound, including hiking and biking trails, kayaking and wildlife watching.
The park features 59 campsites, each equipped with water and electricity hookups, picnic tables and fire rings. The campground also offers hot showers, laundry facilities and a dump station for RVs. The ranger station has educational exhibits and programs, as well as a campground store where visitors can purchase supplies and souvenirs.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“We visited for our summer vacation. It was supposed to be a quick 5 day trip. It ended up being 9 days! The park rangers and volunteer staff were awesome and very accommodating. We rented a golf cart and were able to cruise to the beach, dinner and ice cream for the kids. We highly recommend renting or bringing your carts or bikes, there are a lot of things to see and places to go.” — Richard M
“Wonderful campground! Beautiful beaches. Large sites. Some gravel, some concrete. Most look very level. Older section has more mature trees and vegetation which translates to a little more shade and privacy for now but the sites are all spaced apart with privacy in mind. Some sites are in the water but ours was not. I honestly do not think there is a bad site in the entire campground.” — Kiva R
Campground Details
Price: $45-$130
Number of sites: 59
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
Pets allowed: Y
2. Grayton Beach State Park — Florida
Credit: Jenny P
Location: Dandridge, TN
What makes it great:
On the shores of Douglas Lake is Anchor Down RV Resort with its luxurious amenities and facilities, including a pool, hot tub and clubhouse. The resort is an ideal destination for fishing and water sports.
With breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains and a peaceful setting for nature lovers, guests can choose from a variety of campsites, ranging from waterfront sites to more secluded spots tucked away in the trees.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Truly one the best camping resorts around. Very family friendly with lots of great amenities. Bathhouses are awesome. Hard to get into but worth the wait.” — Bubby N
“Beautiful property with fantastic views of Douglas Lake. Cleanest RV park we have ever visited and the staff was top notch. Sites are level with easy-to-reach hookups. We splurged on a premium site, but all the sites have a great view.” — Norman M
Campground Details
Price: $49-$139
Number of sites: 170
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
Pets allowed: Y
3. Anchor Down RV Resort — Tennessee
Credit: Ted B
Location: Stanton, KY
What makes it great:
Red River Gorge Campground is known for its picturesque surroundings and range of outdoor activities. The campground is located in the heart of Red River Gorge, a geological wonderland with soaring sandstone cliffs, natural arches and deep gorges.
The area is popular with hikers, climbers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous trails for all levels of experience, as well as opportunities for rock climbing, kayaking and fishing. Red River Gorge Campground provides a one-of-a-kind camping experience in Kentucky.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Backcountry camping at its finest. Beautiful trails. Literally a new site around every corner. The gorge underground is a great adventure. Trails are marked and clear the best they can be for being a natural area. Will be back many more times.” — Brittni F
“I have camped at multiple campsites in the RRG area over the years in every season. This is my all-time favorite place to go. We even got married on Rock Bridge Trail.” — Lauren M
Campground Details
Price: $10
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
Pets allowed: Y
4. Red River Gorge Campground — Kentucky
Credit: Annie C
Location: St. Marys, GA / Cumberland Island National Seashore
What makes it great:
Sea Camp Campground is located on Cumberland Island, a barrier island with pristine beaches, maritime forests and historic ruins. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including wild horses, sea turtles and migratory birds, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
Visitors can explore the island's trails, take a guided tour of the ruins, or relax on the beach and soak up the sun. The campground offers primitive camping sites, each equipped with a fire ring and a picnic table. Sea Camp also features amenities such as cold showers, restrooms and a camp store.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Camping on Cumberland Island for 8 days is an experience you will never forget. It rained every day while we were there and past clothing not drying it was still an amazing trip. Wild horses running on the beach is something to see. The ruins of an 1800s mansion built by a Carnegie that burned in 1959 is also one of those mysterious places that conjure emotions and kick the imagination in gear.” — Charles D
“It was the most amazing campsite I've ever seen. Huge, shaded, outstanding are only a few words to describe it. Set up tent and went straight to the ocean. I almost cried when the boardwalk through the woods opened up to mountains of dunes and sky. Felt like I was in another world or someone's dream when I stood on the empty beach and watched the sunset.” — Sara R
Campground Details
Price: $22-$40
Number of sites: 18
RV sites: N
Fires allowed: Y
Pets allowed: N
5. Sea Camp Campground — Georgia
Credit: Alex M
Location: Fifty-Six, AR / Ozark-St. Francis National Forests
What makes it great:
Blanchard Springs Campgrounds is an extremely popular camping destination in the heart of Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. It provides easy access to Blanchard Springs Caverns, a system of underground caves and waterfalls where visitors can take a guided tour. Campers also enjoy exploring the surrounding forests on foot or bike, or cool off in the crystal-clear waters of Mirror Lake.
There are a range of camping options, including tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and yurts. Hot showers, flush toilets, laundry facilities, a playground, camp store and picnic area with grills and tables can all be found on site.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Hiking through the caverns and around the recreation area is phenomenal. The caverns make you feel like you’re looking at something made by aliens. It’s really pretty amazing.” — Donny S
“We've visited here many times as it is a family favorite. Blanchard Springs Caverns were awesome, handicap accessible, and cheap, like ten bucks. The campground (and any other campground in the area) will not disappoint as the scenic views are amazing. There are rock walls and creek views for miles. You can walk and tube Sylamore Creek from right next to your campsite.” — Brandie D
Campground Details
Price: $15-$60
Number of sites: 17
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
Pets allowed: Y
6. Blanchard Springs Campgrounds — Arkansas
Credit: Kevin & Amy
Location: Murrells Inlet, SC
What makes it great:
Huntington Beach State Park is a popular destination for beautiful beaches and diverse wildlife. The park features three miles of pristine coastline, with soft sand dunes and clear blue waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing and fishing. The area is also home to alligators, loggerhead turtles and a wide range of bird species.
Huntington Beach State Park is known for an abundance of hiking and biking trails, as well as kayaking, paddleboarding and bird watching. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the park's historic sites or attend one of the park's many educational programs, including nature walks and astronomy talks.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Well, even though I was there in the middle of December, I felt like I was on summer vacation at this state park. The campground is quite beautiful, with the campsites pretty well immersed in vegetation. There's a lot of diversity among sites, so I'm sure people have favorites.” — Jorah
“We had an amazing time at Huntington Beach. Campsites are large (although not all are shaded). The beach is pristine and gorgeous. I loved hearing the waves as I was falling asleep. The ghost tour at Atalaya is a must!” — Tracy H
Campground Details
Price: $75-$85
Number of sites: 173
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
Pets allowed: Y
7. Huntington Beach State Park — South Carolina
Credit: Michael K
Location: Stanley, VA / Shenandoah National Park
What makes it great:
Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains with stunning views of the surrounding valleys and ridges, Big Meadows Campground is popular for its breathtaking scenery. Visitors can explore the park's numerous hiking trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail, or take a scenic drive along Skyline Drive, a 105-mile road that runs through the park.
The park is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including black bears, deer and a variety of bird species, making it popular among photographers.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“This campground is not only beautiful but well maintained. There are showers, ice, wood, and a small store on site. The ranger programs at Big Meadows are very good. I went to a session on bears, another on the flora and fauna of the park, and my favorite — the Star Party! My dog and I laid under the stars on a blanket and listened to the Ranger tell us the stories of the constellations! Awesome.” — Gail B
“We have stayed at this campground many times! It is our favorite! The scenery is fantastic and at the foot of Shenandoah National Park. The sites are large and there is both sun and shade.” — Joanne H
Campground Details
Price: $30-$75
Number of sites: 221
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
Pets allowed: Y
8. Big Meadows Campground — Virginia
Credit: Kayla M
Location: Spruce Pine, NC
What makes it great:
Spacious Skies Bear Den Campground in the Blue Ridge Mountains provides awe-inspiring views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Visitors can explore the park's numerous hiking trails, go fishing in the nearby streams and lakes, or simply relax in the peaceful and secluded setting.
Spacious Skies Bear Den has volleyball and basketball courts, horseshoe pits and a playground for children. Visitors can also swimming lake or enjoy the gem mine.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“What a great campground. First off, it has some of the best campsites — wooded and with some level of privacy — that I’ve experienced in awhile. Kids loved the playground and there were a lot of other kids to make friends with. Also we enjoyed Cascades Trail on site. Just a very peaceful and well maintained campground!” — Caroline T
“Stayed here for the first time in May and loved it so much we reserved another trip for July on the way home! This is the only place we’ve ever camped and it met all my expectations.” — Michelle P
Campground Details
Price: $33-$90
Number of sites: 144
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
Pets allowed: Y
9. Spacious Skies Bear Den Campground — North Carolina
Credit: T N T
Location: Parsons, WV / Monongahela National Forest
What makes it great:
Five River Campground is the base camp for adventure. Located in the Monongahela National Forest, the campground offers views of surrounding mountains, rivers and forests, making it the perfect destination for fishing, hiking and mountain biking.
The area offers whitewater rafting, canoeing, tubing and kayaking on the nearby rivers. Additionally, Five River Campground is close to some sought-after non-camping activities like shopping, golf, nightlife and entertainment in the nearby towns of Thomas and Canaan Valley.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“I’m a full-time RVer, and I typically stay about a month at each campground. I was at Five River Campground for the entire month of June, and it was great!!! The owners are extremely friendly and helpful. The electric, sewer, and water hookups work well, and the RV sites are fairly level. Picture a farm with trees surrounded by mountains and a beautiful lake in a very small town but also with GREAT WIFI!!!” — Carolyn H
“We are full-time in a 40' class A with our 2 kids & 2 English Bulldogs and this campground is one of our favorites yet! John, the owner, greeted us when we entered and we left feeling like old friends. He and his wife do a phenomenal job with the upkeep of the campground. We loved how simple it was (no pool or other big amenities) and it was still so incredible.” — Jen O
Campground Details
Price: $15
Number of sites: 138
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
Pets allowed: Y
10. (tie) Five River Campground — West Virginia
2023 Best Places to Camp in the Southeast Region
Credit: Benjamin S
Location: Ruston, LA
What makes it great:
Lincoln Parish Park is located on the shores of Lake D'Arbonne with picturesque views of the lake and surrounding forests. Famous for its mountain bike trails, the park also has numerous hiking trails and an abundance of fishing opportunities from piers or a boat.
The park is a hub for a variety of recreational opportunities, including boating, kayaking and swimming in the lake. There is also a playground and a boundless park allowing more space for play. With its peaceful natural surroundings, Lincoln Parish Park provides a relaxing camping experience in northern Louisiana.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“No doubt about it, this park is beautiful. Apparently it’s known for its mountain biking and other trails, but camping here was wonderful. The park staff was super friendly and took pride in the work of keeping up the park.” — Benjamin S
“This is always one of our favorite places to camp. Close to town if you need something, but truly has everything you’ll need for entertaining your whole family. Our favorites are the walking/biking paths, fishing, feeding ducks, big playgrounds, and well-planned, level sites.” — Carrie I
Campground Details
Price: $25-$35
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
Pets allowed: Y
View the 2023 Best Places To Camp Regional Awards winners by region.
10. (tie) Lincoln Parish Park — Louisiana
The Southeast may be best known for college football and southern hospitality, but it can stake its claim, and its tent, as an outstanding camping destination. Speaking of college football, Alabama is used to being No. 1 and it’s no different when it comes to camping.
Cherokee Rock Village in Leesburg is at the top of the 2023 Best Places to Camp in the Southeast Region list. There’s still something for everyone, whether you want to spend time at a Florida beach, at an RV resort in Tennessee, exploring gorges in Kentucky or watching wild horses run free on an island in Georgia.
Check out these and the rest of this year’s Best Places to Camp Regional Award winners in the Southeast Region, which are based on reviews and ratings from The Dyrt’s vast community of campers.