River Forge RV Park and Campground: A Convenient Base in Harrogate, TN

River Forge RV Park and Campground Introduce

river forge rv park and campground

For those exploring the scenic beauty and historical richness of Northeast Tennessee, River Forge RV Park and Campground in Harrogate offers a unique lodging option. Nestled in a picturesque valley alongside a tranquil creek, this campground provides a setting that, in its natural state, holds considerable appeal for travelers and long-term residents alike. Its location is a significant draw, placing guests within easy reach of prominent regional attractions and educational institutions. While the ideal of an outdoor retreat often conjures images of pristine, fully equipped facilities, understanding the current state and offerings of River Forge RV Park and Campground is essential for locals in Tennessee planning their next visit or considering it for an extended stay.

River Forge RV Park and Campground is conveniently located at 2042 Forge Ridge Rd, Harrogate, TN 37752, USA. This address places it in a prime position for exploring a variety of regional highlights. The campground is notably "close to town" and, most significantly, provides excellent access to the historically significant Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. This allows visitors to easily venture into the park's extensive trail system, discover its rich pioneer history, and enjoy its breathtaking natural landscapes. Additionally, the park's proximity to Lincoln Memorial University makes it a practical choice for visiting families, students, or those involved with the university community. While nestled in a valley with natural charm, its location still allows for relatively easy access to essential services in Harrogate and surrounding areas. The approach to the campground is generally accessible, though as noted in some feedback, internal roadways might require careful navigation due to their condition.

Based on direct observation and mixed customer feedback, River Forge RV Park and Campground advertises and aims to offer a range of services, though their current availability and condition may vary.

RV Sites: The park reportedly offers 70 RV sites with full hookups (20/30/50 amp electricity, water, and septic).
Tent Sites: There are also 50 tent sites available for traditional campers.
Cabins: The campground claims to feature 8 cabins for those seeking more structured lodging.
Bathhouses and Laundry Facilities: Information suggests there are two bathhouses (for cabin and tent site use only), each with showers and toilets, and laundry rooms. However, recent reviews indicate these facilities may be locked or unavailable.
Full Hookups for RVs: Advertised amenities include water, electric, and sewage connections at each RV site. Recent guest experiences suggest inconsistent functionality of electric hookups.
Wi-Fi Access: High-speed internet is advertised as available for purchase through PVEC. Recent reviews, however, strongly indicate no reliable internet or cell service on-site.
Community Areas: The park reportedly has two pavilions with picnic tables and three large community fire pits.
Playground: A swing set and playground are listed for children.
General Store: A general store is mentioned, but recent reviews indicate it has been out of business for some time.
Dumpsters: Dumpsters are available for trash disposal, typically located near the entrance.
Seasonal Trout Fishing: The beautiful Indian Creek, which runs along the campground, is advertised as being seasonally stocked with trout for fishing enthusiasts.

The highlights and features of River Forge RV Park and Campground are predominantly tied to its natural setting and excellent geographical location, as well as the potential they represent.

Scenic Valley and Creek-side Setting: The campground boasts a "nice setting along a creek in a valley," offering a naturally pleasant and quiet environment with the soothing sounds of the water. This natural beauty is a consistent positive.
Ideal Location: Its proximity to key landmarks is a significant advantage. It is "close to town" and, crucially, very close to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, providing immediate access to historical sites and extensive hiking trails. Its closeness to Lincoln Memorial University is also a major plus for visitors to the campus.
Quiet Atmosphere: Despite some road noise, the park is generally described as "quiet," offering a peaceful retreat from more bustling areas.
Courteous and Helpful Staff (when available): Feedback indicates that the staff, when encountered, are "very courteous and helpful," a positive aspect of customer interaction.
Potential for Improvement: Many reviews highlight the immense "potential" of the park due to its ideal location and natural setting, suggesting that with proper maintenance and attention to detail, it "could be lovely."
Long-Term Resident Community: The presence of numerous long-term residents, including workers and students, can foster a sense of community for those seeking extended stays.

For inquiries, or to attempt to contact River Forge RV Park and Campground, please use the following details. It is highly recommended to call in advance given the feedback regarding unresponsiveness.

Address: 2042 Forge Ridge Rd, Harrogate, TN 37752, USA

Phone: (423) 441-1256

Mobile Phone: +1 423-441-1256

For locals in Tennessee, considering River Forge RV Park and Campground requires a careful balance of its advantageous location against reported challenges in maintenance and service. From a purely geographical standpoint, this park is highly suitable for those living in Tennessee who wish to explore the rich history and natural beauty of the Cumberland Gap region. Its proximity to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park offers unparalleled access to hiking, historical sites, and scenic drives, making it a convenient base for a weekend getaway or a longer historical exploration. Additionally, its closeness to Lincoln Memorial University provides a practical option for families visiting students or attending university events. The natural creek-side valley setting offers a peaceful backdrop that can be very appealing for those seeking tranquility. For RVers in Tennessee who prioritize location and a quiet setting above all else, and are prepared for potentially rustic conditions or to be self-sufficient regarding amenities, the park's prime spot remains its strongest draw. It represents a potential-filled corner of Tennessee's landscape, offering convenient access to beloved landmarks for residents across the state.

River Forge RV Park and Campground Photos

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River Forge RV Park and Campground Location

River Forge RV Park and Campground

Tennessee Claiborne County Harrogate Forge Ridge Road

2042 Forge Ridge Rd, Harrogate, TN 37752, USA

River Forge RV Park and Campground Reviews

This campground has a nice setting along a creek in a valley. But, it has not been properly maintained. Most sites are quite unlevel - in need of grading and gravel. And most are quite close together and without picnic tables and firepits. Not what one expects at this price point. The location is ideal - close to town and to Cumberland Gap National Historic Park. Also close to Lincoln Memorial University. The park seemed to have numerous long term residents - both workers and students - not that this is a problem. The park was quiet with a little road noise. The staff was very courteous and helpful. The park could be lovely with a little effort and attention to detail.
Nov 12, 2023 · Susan Schwaderer
OVERPRICED FOR CAMPGROUND CONDITION!We were very disappointed in our stay at River Forge RV Park in Harrogate, TN. The park is clearly not being maintained. The grass was extremely overgrown and looked like it hadn’t been mowed in ages. Campsites are unmarked, making it confusing to find where you’re supposed to be. All of the gravel delineating each site has been totally overgrown by grass and weeds.Very few sites had working electric, and unfortunately, the one we were assigned didn’t work at all. We had to move—twice—just to find functioning power. The campground office was locked, and no employees were on site to help us. To make matters worse there was no cell phone service for us to attempt to contact the owners for assistance. We had to drive 5 miles into town in order to obtain a cellular signal just in order to contact the campground. Which, unfortunately went unanswered. We never were able to speak to an employee so we just sat our trailer up in a random site that we could use.The gravel roadways through the park are in rough shape, with numerous holes and visible erosion. The gravel driveway entrance and exit is also in poor condition and isn’t being maintained. Trash was scattered throughout the grounds, including an unsightly pile of old tires left in one of the sites. The trash dumpsters were also full and overflowing.We tried calling and texting the campground multiple times during our 4-day stay and never received a response. In fact, we never saw a single staff member or owner the entire time we were there.The campground had several long-term residents and some of the sites had old, rundown, derelict campers that look abandoned. The park advertises a number of amenities that simply are not available. There was no cell service, no internet, and the “general store” has clearly been out of business for some time. The restrooms, shower, house, and laundry facilities were also locked and unavailable for use. Comparing the current state of the park to the photos on their website from a few years ago, it’s obvious that nothing is being maintained or updated.To top it off, the nightly rate was over $70—a steep price for a place offering so little and delivering even less.The only reason we’re giving this 2 stars instead of 1 is because the location is excellent—very close to Cumberland Gap National Park, the charming town of Cumberland Gap, and Lincoln Memorial University. Unfortunately, the potential of this RV park is being completely wasted.
Jun 11, 2025 · Douglas Francis
Beautiful newly updated campsite. RV's and campers parked too close together. Open your awning and you almost touch the next camper. Sites are severely overgrown. I had to remove the grass and weeds to find my water connection. Restrooms were always locked, unable to use the facilities. Visited the office many times, always locked, called the number no answer, texted the number, no answer. Do not leave your tank lines open when connected to sewer, your camper will quickly smell like sewer, since previously dumped sewer is not draining properly allowing for gas buildup at the site. This could be a beautiful campsite, but poorly managed with no service and maintenance! Campers were friendly and several students appear to be using the campsite for temporary residency.Good broadband WiFi is available. The service offers a free 1 hr test connection. Connection was great with my router, but when I went to sign up for a 3 day service for $20, I could not enter my credit card information to complete the transaction. The WiFi service does not allow for hotspot sharing. I have 5 internet connected devices in my camper for work on the go, and at $20/device it's too expensive. For what the site charges per day they should include free WiFi for their guests. It would have gone a long way to a better customer experience. Tried to contact the office, but no response.Warning to Cellular users. This campsite sits in a valley. Don't expect to be able to use your cell phone with Verizon service. Connection strength was less than one bar, and we could only send short texts. Voice communication was constantly being dropped. There are no cell phone repeater towers in this valley. To get proper cell service we had to drive toward town.
May 05, 2024 · Christian Huygen
They had the grass cut and all when we showed up. Bathrooms are Wonderful New, Warm, and Clean. Hot was lasted plenty. Washer and dryer available right by bathroom. Awning available also. The only complaint was the whole tent area was on a slope. Makes it kinda hard to set a bed flat. They also had cabins and camper spots for rent. Saw deer walking up the river. Right at us. Saw turkey fly down the river also. It was a very nice 3 night stay.
May 03, 2023 · Melissa Miller
This place could be special if they put some effort into cleaning it up and being on site. The river spots are great. The flowering bushes attract tons of butterflies and humming birds. We caught plenty of small mouth bass in the creek on fly.The price for staying a month is fantastic.
Sep 23, 2023 · Cruising with the Clemons