Douglas Tailwater Campground

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For Tennesseans seeking a tranquil riverside retreat that offers both peaceful seclusion and convenient access to water activities, Douglas Tailwater Campground in Kodak presents an ideal destination. Situated downstream from the impressive Douglas Dam on the French Broad River, this campground provides a unique and calming environment where the rhythmic rise and fall of the river water dictate the pace of your day. If you're a local looking for a quiet camping experience with well-maintained facilities and friendly service, this hidden gem is definitely worth exploring for your next outdoor adventure.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Douglas Tailwater Campground, drawing from available public data and valuable insights from fellow campers. We understand that finding the perfect camping spot often involves balancing serene surroundings with practical amenities. Douglas Tailwater Campground excels in offering a quiet atmosphere, clean facilities, and a prime location for enjoying the French Broad River, all while being managed by truly "kind and helpful" staff.

Whether you're an avid angler, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone yearning for a peaceful escape from the everyday hustle, Douglas Tailwater Campground offers a welcoming and well-cared-for environment. We'll delve into its precise location, the array of services it provides, its standout features, and essential contact information, all to help you plan your next memorable stay along the beautiful French Broad River in Tennessee.

Douglas Tailwater Campground is conveniently located at 829 River View Way, Kodak, TN 37764, USA. This strategic location places it on the "tail end of the dam, dispersed by the banks of the French Broad River," providing direct access to the downstream waters of Douglas Dam. Kodak, a growing community in Sevier County, offers local amenities and serves as an accessible gateway to this beautiful stretch of river.

The campground boasts an "entry road is paved," and its sites are "graveled," ensuring smooth and easy access for both RVs and tent campers. While one reviewer mentioned "bridge traffic" as a minor downside, this indicates good connectivity to nearby roads and amenities. The campground is also well-positioned for exploring the wider region; it's approximately "20 miles from Pigeon Forge, TN, and 30 miles from Gatlinburg, TN." This allows campers to enjoy the quietude of the riverside setting while still being within a reasonable drive of the major tourist attractions, entertainment, dining, and shopping opportunities that the Smoky Mountains area is famous for. This balance of natural serenity and convenient proximity to popular destinations makes Douglas Tailwater Campground an excellent choice for Tennessee residents.

• Campsites: Douglas Tailwater Campground offers a total of 61 campsites. Of these, 58 include electric (30-amp and 50-amp options available) and water hookups, making it ideal for RVs and trailers (fitting vehicles up to 42 feet long). There are also 3 primitive tent sites available for those seeking a more traditional experience. Each site is graveled and includes a picnic table, a fire pit, or a grill combo.
• Bathhouses: The campground features "2 bathhouses... with warm showers and flush toilets." Reviewers consistently praise these facilities for being "clean and well taken care of" and having "consistent hot water in the shower," even noting they "had heat" during cooler temperatures.
• Dump Station: A "dump station is located in the campground for campers at no charge," providing essential convenience for RV users.
• Camp Store: A "small store" is available on-site, likely offering basic necessities and camping supplies.
• Playground: The campground includes a "small playground for children," adding a family-friendly amenity.
• Day Use Area: Prior to entering the campground, there is a public "Look Out Point with day use picnic tables, 2 large group pavilions, and a restroom facility." These pavilions can be reserved for a nominal fee or are available on a first-come basis when not reserved. This area offers "amazing views of the Douglas Dam, reservoir, and long-range mountains."
• Pet-Friendly Policy: The campground welcomes pets, allowing "Only 2 pets... per campsite." Pets must be "on a leash no longer than 6 feet or crated at all times" and are restricted from certain areas like the beach and inside bathhouses.
• Friendly Staff: The "staff are kind and helpful" and "camp hosts were great," going above and beyond to assist campers.

• Quiet Camping Experience: A primary highlight is the campground's "quiet camping experience with minimal sites," providing a serene atmosphere highly valued by visitors seeking peace and relaxation.
• Riverside Setting: Located directly "on the French Broad River," it offers beautiful waterfront views and direct access to the river. The water level fluctuates, being "up during the day and lowers at night," which can be an interesting natural phenomenon to observe.
• Excellent Fishing: The French Broad River is known for diverse fishing opportunities, including bass (Smallmouth, Largemouth, White, Striped, Spotted), crappie, catfish, trout, walleye, and muskellunge. This makes it a prime location for anglers.
• Wildlife Watching: The area is excellent for "wildlife watching," with opportunities to spot "water fowl and bald eagles." One reviewer specifically noted the excitement of seeing "bald eagles" during their stay.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: The "bathrooms and showers were cleaned at least daily" and are consistently praised for their cleanliness and hot water, a significant comfort for campers.
• Proximity to Douglas Dam Overlook: The nearby public Look Out Point offers panoramic views of Douglas Dam, the reservoir, and distant mountains, providing a picturesque spot for day visits.
• Hiking Opportunities: The campground features "hiking trails," allowing campers to explore the natural surroundings on foot. The close proximity to the Douglas Dam also offers a paved walking path.
• Great Camp Hosts: The presence of "great camp hosts" who are "kind and helpful" significantly enhances the overall camping experience, providing assistance and a welcoming atmosphere.

Address: 829 River View Way, Kodak, TN 37764, USA

Phone: (865) 361-1522

Mobile Phone: +1 865-361-1522

For reservations and the most up-to-date information on rates, availability, and specific policies, it is highly recommended to contact Douglas Tailwater Campground directly using the provided phone numbers or visit the Go Camp Tennessee website, which often handles reservations for TVA campgrounds. The campground typically operates seasonally, generally opening in mid-March and closing in mid-November, so it's wise to confirm operating dates before planning your trip.

For Tennesseans, Douglas Tailwater Campground stands out as an exceptional choice for a peaceful and amenity-rich outdoor experience, conveniently located within our beautiful state. Its prime suitability for locals lies in its unique blend of serene riverside charm and practical comforts, all without the overwhelming crowds often found in other popular tourist areas.

The "quiet camping experience with minimal sites" is a significant draw, offering a genuine sense of escape and privacy that many residents seek. This tranquility, combined with the picturesque views of the French Broad River and the distant Smoky Mountains, creates an ideal setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. The distinctive phenomenon of the river water rising during the day and lowering at night adds a fascinating natural element to your stay, constantly changing the landscape.

Furthermore, the consistent praise for the cleanliness of the "restrooms and showers" and the availability of "consistent hot water" are major advantages, ensuring a comfortable camping experience that feels far from primitive. The presence of truly "kind and helpful" staff and "great camp hosts" like April and Chuck elevates the experience, making campers feel genuinely welcomed and well-supported. This level of service is a rare and cherished quality that encourages repeat visits.

For active locals, the French Broad River offers superb fishing opportunities for a variety of species, from bass to trout, making it a dream destination for anglers. The availability of hiking trails and excellent birdwatching, including sightings of majestic "bald eagles," further enriches the natural experience. While there might be some "bridge traffic," its distance from heavily traveled highways ensures that the overall atmosphere remains peaceful. Douglas Tailwater Campground offers an accessible, clean, and truly delightful camping experience that will have any Tennessee local saying, "I would highly recommend this campground and we would stay again."

Douglas Tailwater Campground

829 River View Way, Kodak, TN 37764, USA