Outdoor Adventures in Northeastern Tennessee

A guide to adventurous nature activities in the area surrounding the Tri Cities of Tennessee, with a focus on hiking and camping   . . .

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​Northeastern Tennessee is home to the three major cities of Bristol, Kingsport, and Johnson City. Though this may sound like a populous landscape, the surrounding area does not go without a multitude natural wonders to be explored. 

What Are the Best Nature Activities in the Tri Cities Area?

​The answer is …  
There are simply too many options to clearly lay out a definitive list. The mountains of East Tennessee are full of natural wonder to keep you entertained indefinitely. To give you an idea, I have created my own personal take on some of the most enjoyable hiking trails, campgrounds, and waterfalls in the area. 

The Watauga Lake Area

Watauga Lake can be found just east of Elizabethton. This man-made lake that was created by the damming of the Watauga River as it flows westward out of North Carolina. Though it wasn't created by natural means, the nearby scenery is some of the best around. ​

Watauga Point Recreational Area

​If you are looking to camp in this area, I recommend Cardens Bluff Campground. This is a fairly large campground that offers well maintained facilities, fully equipped with showers. Many of the campsites overlook Watauga Lake, and you are guaranteed to have a hard time deciding which one has the best view. 

Cardens Bluff Campground

There is much to do around here. Just down the road is a swimming area, picnic pavilion, and nature trail. After you have gotten tired of all that camp fire food, you can even settle in at the nearby Captain's Table restaurant. If you feel really daring, I recommend seeking out Twisting Falls. The trailhead is only about a 30 minute road trip away - Don't miss it!

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Twisting Falls

Twisting Falls

​This trail is somewhat difficult to access, but is well worth the effort. You will definitely need to rely on some type of map system to navigate the back roads to this hidden gem of an adventure. 

I will warn you, it is a pretty difficult hike with a bit of rock climbing required. The good news is that there is a rope that has been conveniently placed to assist you in some of the most needed places. Take your time and be very careful on the loose rocks as you make your way down the trail. As far as I know, this is the only path in and out, so save a bit of energy for your exit - you'll need it! ​

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Laurel Falls

Just south of Watauga Lake, you will find the tiny town of Hampton, Tennessee. It is in this rural Appalachian environment that you will experience some of the most pristine nature you can imagine. 

Laurel Falls

There are two ways to reach this impressive cascade. The main trail head can be found on the eastern end of town, but I went in the back way via the Dennis Cove Trailhead. This hike to the waterfall is an extremely scenic route, but next time I may take the main path just to see how it compares.

Dennis Cove Trail

If you are looking to spend the night in this area, Dennis Cove Campground offers around a dozen basic campsites at a very affordable price. For those that require a bit more comfort, the nearby Black Bear Lodge may have just what you are looking for. 

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Rock Creek

Located just outside of Erwin is the Rock Creek Recreation Area. There are three sections to this campground, each with its own restroom facilities. At the lower end, the creek flows into a concrete pond that makes a great place to cool off in the summer heat. A small amphitheater can be found nearby for the hosting of entertainment and educational events. 

​After enjoying all the amenities, be sure to check out the hiking trails. The trailhead to Rock Creek Falls can be found on the upper end of the campground. This one is about 3 miles round-trip, but not too difficult. Another nearby trail connects to the ominous sounding Rattlesnake Ridge … if you dare. 

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Margarette Falls

Southwest of the Tri Cities you will find the historic city of Greeneville. This rural Tennessee town was once home to Andrew Johnson, the 17th president of The United States of America, and it is here that you can also visit his grave … But enough with the history lesson, we are now headed 10 miles southeast out of town to Margarette Falls. 

From the parking lot, it is a bit of a walk to the trailhead. Once you have reached the signpost, there is a marker that states it is a 0.7 mile trek to the falls. The trail begins with a fairly gentle incline, with many cascades along the way. The scenery is amazing, but don't be fooled - the real challenge lies ahead. 

You will soon realize that this is not exactly the best kind of hike for beginners. As you proceed up the path, the incline begins to increase. At one point you may have to wade across the creek, or try your balancing skills on a log. And be aware that another part of the trail requires a bit of climbing. 

Don't let any of this deter you from achieving your goal. The magnificent waterfall at the end of the trail is well worth the effort. Just be careful and watch for slick spots, especially when the leaves have fallen. 

Margarette Falls

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There is much more to experience in this area,
​and I will continue to add to this blog as time allows.
In the meantime, you may want to read about 
Hiking in The Smokies