Within Cherokee National Forest, Little Oak Campground occupies a series of peninsulas extending into South Holston Lake. This US Forest Service facility operates April through October at $10 per night, with reservations available for the 23 sites spread across multiple loops.
The forested setting places most campsites within walking distance of the lake, though dense vegetation blocks water views from many spots. Campers report that sites closer to the shoreline fill up quickly during peak season. "Water views, but not every site has lake access," notes Candice H.. The Hemlock Loop draws particular praise from reviewers, with site 006 mentioned as a standout location.
Fishing and kayaking dominate recreational activities here. Several sites allow direct kayak launches, though some require navigating steep banks to reach the water. The campground includes a boat ramp, and reviews consistently mention productive fishing opportunities. Facilities cover the basics well with drinking water, restrooms that campers describe as clean, picnic tables, and a dump station. Some sites offer water and sewer hookups for RVs.
Access requires navigating a winding road with switchbacks and blind curves. "Locals breeze through it, but if you are hauling an very large trailer/RV be prepared," warns Daniel L.. The road becomes more challenging in wet conditions. Cell service runs spotty, particularly for Verizon users. Generator quiet hours begin at 10 PM, and while alcohol isn't officially permitted, enforcement appears inconsistent according to multiple reviews.
For additional camping options in the region, consider campgrounds around Cherokee National Forest or Holston Mountain Area for a different mountain experience.
Description
Overview
Little Oak Campground hugs the shores and inlets of beautiful South Holston Lake in Sullivan County, Tennessee. With a view of the Holston Mountain ridgeline and lake islands, Little Oak campsites are a relaxing setting for your vacation. There are 69 universally accessible campsites improved in 2012 including warm showers and a paved access road. Campground hosts are available on site to answer your questions.
Recreation
Fishing is a popular activity for campers at Little Oak, with a concrete boat launch within the campground. Numerous campsites have easy access to the lake shore for tying off your boat. There are nearby trails for hiking and horseback riding. Children and adults enjoy riding their bikes on the roads between camping loops. There is also a lakeside grassy area popular for swimming and picnicking. There is an array of wildflowers to enjoy throughout the season, resident deer and turkey and other natural wonders for the naturalist in your group.
Facilities
There are 69 universally accessible campsites for tents or RVs within four loops at Little Oak Campground. Each loop has a pair of vault toilets. In addition, there is an accessible shower house with 8 showers for the campground. There is a boat launch within the campground with an additional single vault toilet. The boat launch is for use by registered campers and their guests only.
Natural Features
South Holston Lake is a 7,580-acre hydroelectric reservoir managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority and surrounded by the Cherokee National Forest. Holston Mountain and nearby Iron Mountain provide habitat for an array of wildlife including a healthy population of black bear.
Nearby Attractions
Little Oak Campground is within 30 minutes of Bristol, Tennessee, and nearby Bristol Motor Speedway. Backbone Rock Recreation Area is approximately 30 minutes away up beautiful Shadey Valley, and just five minutes past Backbone Rock is Damascus, Virginia. Jacobs Creek Campground and Swim Area is 25 minutes away for another view of South Holston Lake.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundLittle Oak Campground is located in Tennessee
Directions
From Bristol, take US 421 south for 12 miles, and turn right onto paved Camp Tom Howard Road. After 0.5 miles, this road becomes Forest Road #87. Continue on Road #87 for six miles. Turn right on Road #87G for 1.5 miles to Little Oak.
Address
1051 Little Oak Rd
Bristol, TN 37620
Coordinates
36.5195389 N
82.0608167 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 4/3/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/3/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/3/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 4/3/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/3/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/3/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
Drive Time
- 1 hr 8 min from Johnson City, TN
- 1 hr 14 min from Kingsport, TN
- 1 hr 53 min from Morristown, TN
- 2 hrs 10 min from Asheville, NC


































