Cardens Bluff Campground
Cherokee National Forest — lakeside, fishing, hiking
Unicoi, TN4.4 (179)
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Cardens Bluff Campground will open for the 2026 season on 4/27/26. At nearly 2,000 feet elevation, Cardens Bluff Campground is located on a peninsula overlooking the 6,430-acre Watauga Lake in Carter County, TN. There are 43 sites, primarily for tent camping.
Things to do nearby
Cherokee National ForestWatauga LakeBig Laurel Branch Wilderness
Best For
AnglersHikersBoaters
Site Types
TentRV
Amenities
Fire Rings
Picnic Tables
Flush Toilets
Showers
Electric Hookups
Camp Host
Fishing
Boat Launch
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Season
May through October
Max/site
6 people
Known Issues
Federal campground — book early. No hookups at most sites. Seasonal operations.
Cancellation Policy
Recreation.gov: full refund if cancelled 7+ days before arrival. $10 cancellation fee applies.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Cardens Bluff Campground cost per night?+
Cardens Bluff Campground costs $12 per night depending on site type and season. Hookup options: No hookups. Suitable for self-contained RVs.
What season is Cardens Bluff Campground open?+
Cardens Bluff Campground is open May through October. Check-in is 2:00 PM, check-out is 12:00 PM.
Does Cardens Bluff Campground have hookups?+
No hookups. Suitable for self-contained RVs.
What is the maximum RV length at Cardens Bluff Campground?+
Cardens Bluff Campground can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet long.
How do I make reservations at Cardens Bluff Campground?+
Cardens Bluff Campground is a federal campground — reservations open 6 months in advance at Recreation.gov. Sites sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert to be notified the moment a site opens.
How far is Cardens Bluff Campground from the nearest town?+
Cardens Bluff Campground is located in Unicoi, TN. Check the map above for distance to nearby services.
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