Big Ridge - Group Camp

Welcome to Big Ridge - Group Camp, a truly exceptional destination located within the beloved Big Ridge State Park in Maynardville, Tennessee. For groups, organizations, and large families across our state, finding a suitable and inspiring place for collective experiences can be a challenge. We understand the need for a safe, clean, and accommodating environment where bonds can strengthen, and memories can flourish. Big Ridge - Group Camp offers precisely that – a dedicated space designed to host larger gatherings amidst the stunning natural beauty of East Tennessee.

At Big Ridge - Group Camp, our focus is on providing a supportive and well-maintained setting for your collective adventure. We pride ourselves on the welcoming atmosphere and the pristine natural surroundings, which consistently receive high praise from our visitors. Whether you're planning a family reunion, a youth camp, a church retreat, or any large-scale gathering, our facilities are tailored to ensure comfort and convenience for everyone. The beauty of Big Ridge Lake, noted by many as one of the cleanest they've ever seen, provides a stunning backdrop for all your activities.

We believe that the best group experiences happen in environments that foster both connection and serenity. The dedicated staff and the overall ambiance here contribute to a feeling of safety and tranquility, allowing your group to truly relax, engage, and even find spiritual rejuvenation. Come discover why Big Ridge - Group Camp is considered one of the best camping experiences in the area for groups, and why so many return year after year to this special corner of Tennessee.

Big Ridge - Group Camp is conveniently located within Big Ridge State Park in Maynardville, TN 37807, USA. This address places it squarely in a scenic and accessible part of East Tennessee, making it an ideal destination for groups traveling from various parts of the state. Maynardville is well-connected to major roadways, ensuring a straightforward and manageable journey for buses, vans, and multiple vehicles typically associated with group travel. The park's entrance is well-marked, guiding visitors directly to this expansive and well-maintained state park.

The accessibility of Big Ridge State Park itself is a significant advantage. Situated on the southern shore of TVA's Norris Reservoir, the park is approximately 25 miles north of Knoxville. This proximity to a major city allows for easy access to larger retail centers for any last-minute supplies, while still providing a deep immersion into a forested, natural environment. The park boasts over 15 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to very rugged, which are all accessible from various points within the park, catering to different group fitness levels.

For the Group Camp specifically, its location within the larger state park means access to a wealth of recreational opportunities without needing to travel far. While the Group Camp itself offers dedicated facilities, the park's overall infrastructure is designed to accommodate various activities. The paved roads within the park are suitable for bicycles, and there are ample parking areas for vehicles. This combination of a convenient location for statewide travel and excellent on-site accessibility within a beautiful state park truly makes Big Ridge - Group Camp an optimal choice for any large group gathering in Tennessee.

Services Offered (Specific to Big Ridge - Group Camp):

• Group Accommodation: Designed to accommodate large groups, with a capacity of up to 120 people.
• Screened-in Bunkhouses: Features 18 screened-in bunkhouses, each capable of sleeping six to eight people.
• Bathhouses: Includes three dedicated bathhouses with restrooms and potentially hot showers for group use.
• Dining Hall with Commercial Kitchen: A spacious dining hall equipped with a commercial kitchen, ideal for preparing and serving meals for large groups.
• Recreation Hall: A rustic log-and-stone building overlooking Big Ridge Lake, available by reservation, with seating for up to 70, a massive fireplace, covered porch, kitchen, and restrooms.
• Picnic Areas: Open picnic areas with tables and grills are available throughout the broader park.
• Covered Pavilions: Four covered pavilions (capacity 25 people each) with picnic tables, grills, electrical outlets, and nearby water spigots are reservable within the park.
• Swimming Beach: Access to a sandy beach next to Big Ridge Lake for swimming from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
• Various Sports Facilities: Includes sand volleyball, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, a basketball court, and a softball field within the park.
• ADA Accessible Facilities: Accessible visitor's center, bathhouse at accessible campsites, picnic shelter, playground, and dining hall at the Group Camp area.
• On-Site Rangers: Park rangers are available to provide assistance and information.
• Planned Programs: Seasonal interpretive rangers offer free weekly activities during summer, including guided hikes, movies, campfires, arts and crafts, and nature programs.

Features / Highlights (Specific to Big Ridge - Group Camp and Big Ridge State Park):

• Dedicated Group Facilities: A uniquely designed area catering specifically to the needs of large groups, making planning easier.
• Very Safe Campgrounds: Praised by guests for providing a secure and safe environment.
• Cleanest Lake: Big Ridge Lake is consistently noted for its exceptionally clean water, ideal for swimming and water activities.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: Surrounded by heavily forested areas and rolling hills, offering stunning scenery.
• Healing and Spiritual Environment: Reviews highlight a sense of healing and spiritual presence, particularly beneficial for retreats.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: Over 15 miles of diverse trails, ranging from easy to rugged, for exploration.
• Access to Norris Lake: Proximity to the larger Norris Lake for additional boating and fishing opportunities.
• Historic CCC Structures: The park features unique craftsmanship and stonework from the Civilian Conservation Corps.
• Wheelchair Accessible Playground: An inclusive playground adjacent to the park office.
• Variety of Recreational Activities: Offers a wide range of activities including boating, fishing, sports fields, and interpretive programs.
• All-Season Operation for Park: While the group camp is seasonal (April-October), the park itself offers year-round enjoyment.

Contact Information:

Address: Maynardville, TN 37807, USA (Note: The specific address for Big Ridge State Park is 1015 Big Ridge Park Road, Maynardville, TN 37807)

Phone: (800) 471-5305 (General reservations for Tennessee State Parks)

Mobile Phone: +1 800-471-5305

For direct park office inquiries: (865) 992-5523

For large groups, organizations, and families across Tennessee, Big Ridge - Group Camp stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination. Its dedicated facilities for groups, including screened bunkhouses, multiple bathhouses, and a spacious dining hall with a commercial kitchen, remove much of the logistical complexity typically associated with large gatherings. This means less stress for organizers and more time for participants to connect and engage in meaningful activities. It's truly built with the needs of a collective experience in mind, making it a natural fit for church retreats, youth camps, family reunions, and educational programs.

Furthermore, the safety and cleanliness of the campground, particularly the "cleanest lake" according to reviews, are paramount for group leaders and parents. Knowing that participants can safely enjoy swimming and outdoor activities in a pristine environment adds immense value. The pervasive sense of peace and the anecdotal experiences of healing and spiritual presence, as highlighted by a visitor, suggest that Big Ridge - Group Camp offers more than just physical amenities; it provides an atmosphere conducive to profound positive experiences for group dynamics and individual well-being.

Being part of the larger Big Ridge State Park, locals benefit from an array of additional recreational opportunities right at their fingertips. From extensive hiking trails to various sports courts and interpretive programs, there's always something to keep everyone engaged, regardless of age or interest. This comprehensive offering, combined with its accessible location within East Tennessee, makes Big Ridge - Group Camp an unparalleled choice for any group seeking a well-equipped, safe, and enriching outdoor experience that reflects the best of what our state parks have to offer. It’s a local treasure, ready to host your next unforgettable group adventure.

Big Ridge - Group Camp

Maynardville, TN 37807, USA