Riley Creek Campground
LakesideA quiet, well-loved county campground on the upper lake with clean bathrooms, a swim beach, a boat ramp, and one of the few places that still welcomes tent campers without friction.
Riley Creek has been a local favorite for a long time, and the campground's return after a period of closure is tracked with real appreciation by guests who remember its earlier run. The camp hosts have built a community-oriented property where seasonal campers and first-timers both feel welcomed. The swim areas are a consistent draw, the bathrooms are kept clean, and the boat ramp provides practical upper-lake access.
The campground accommodates both RV hookup campers and tent campers, which is less common on the lake than it should be and earns specific credit from guests who travel by tent. Primitive tent sites are limited in number, so calling ahead is worth doing. Seasonal campers have taken over many of the best lakefront sites, which is a real constraint on prime spot availability for short-stay visitors. The camp hosts run family-friendly activities, including a pavilion for group use.
There is no washer or dryer on site; plan accordingly for longer stays. Pricing is reasonable. Access after hours requires a call; the gate is reportedly left open Friday and Saturday nights for arrivals. Geese are present and plentiful; watch your step.
Tips
- Call ahead to confirm tent site availability; tent spots are limited and often the first to fill.
- Seasonal campers occupy many of the best lakefront sites; ask about available positions when booking.
- The gate is left unlocked Friday and Saturday nights for after-hours check-in; still call ahead to confirm.
- No on-site laundry; plan accordingly for multi-day stays.
- The swim area is calm and sectioned off, making it suitable for children.
What people love
- A clean, friendly operation run by camp hosts who make guests feel at home.
- Two swimming areas, one of which is calm and child-appropriate.
- One of the few campgrounds in the area that still maintains tent camping alongside RV hookup sites.
- A two-lane concrete boat ramp for easy lake access.
- The community character that comes from a mix of seasonal regulars and first-timers.
What to know
- Most of the best lakefront sites are taken by seasonal campers; availability for short stays is limited.
- No on-site laundry.
- Tent sites are limited; reserve ahead if tent camping is the plan.
- Noise on busy weekends can be a factor; late music is not always managed by camp hosts.
Best time
Summer is the full-amenity window with the swim areas and ramp in peak use. Spring and fall are quieter and still comfortable. Avoid peak holiday weekends if a lakefront site matters to you.
First visit
The campground is on Anglers Cove Road off the Kingston area roads. Check in with the camp host during day hours; after-hours arrivals should call ahead and the gate is left open on Friday and Saturday nights.
With kids
The calm, sectioned swim area is the best family feature. The ramp and fishing access give older kids and adults something to do from camp.
Location
Frequently asked
When is Riley Creek Campground open?
Operates spring through fall; the campground has had periods of closure and reopening, so confirm current operating status with Roane County Parks and Recreation.
Is Riley Creek Campground good for families with kids?
The calm, sectioned swim area is the best family feature. The ramp and fishing access give older kids and adults something to do from camp.
How do I get to Riley Creek Campground?
The campground is on Anglers Cove Road off the Kingston area roads. Check in with the camp host during day hours; after-hours arrivals should call ahead and the gate is left open on Friday and Saturday nights.
What should I know before visiting Riley Creek Campground?
Most of the best lakefront sites are taken by seasonal campers; availability for short stays is limited.
Last updated: April 30, 2026