Bristol is rather unique, considering it’s in both Tennessee and Virginia, and the state line runs smack dab through its historic downtown. But when you add its outdoor scene, it’s a destination you simply must see to believe. And once you’re here, it won’t be easy to leave.
An Outdoor Haven
With the glorious Appalachian Mountains as a backdrop, Bristol is loaded with outdoor experiences that make camping a year-round activity for many. The glistening waters of South Holston Lake are a popular fishing location, but there’s also boating, skiing, hiking (the Appalachian Trail is nearby), and biking to enjoy. The Holston River, one of the country’s top flyfishing destinations, is another can’t-miss experience if dipping a line is on your agenda.
Steele Creek Park, which encompasses more than 2,200 acres and is Tennessee’s third-largest municipal park, features a 52-acre lake surrounded by knobs and hills. Visitors can kayak, canoe, fish, or hike the more than 24 miles of trails around the park. The 400-acre Sugar Hollow Park also offers incredible biking, hiking, and camping, as well as disc golf and other activities. The Mendota Trail is a 12.5-mile hiking and biking recreational corridor that takes visitors through gorgeous countryside and forests.
All of these outdoor havens are also centrally located to fantastic, locally-owned restaurants, shopping opportunities, theaters, museums, and other family-friendly activities.
Unique Camping Experiences
When visiting the area, you’ll have an array of great camping options. Bristol Motor Speedway, for example, offers year-round camping and features electrical, water, and sewer hookups, level asphalt surfaces, multiple site sizes, and much more. To learn more about camping opportunities at BMS, visit https://www.bristolmotorspeedway.com/camping/.
Sugar Hollow Campground in Bristol, Va., is open from mid-April through October. It offers 75 camping sites, most of which accommodate all types of recreational vehicles. Each site has a picnic table, charcoal grill, and fire pit. Most sites have electrical and cable hookups with access to water. Campers also have access to two comfort stations, complete with hot showers and a sewage dump station. To learn more about the beautiful campground at Sugar Hollow, visit https://www.bristolva.org/149/Campground.
Observation Knob Park, located on the shores of the South Holston Lake, offers seasonal and daily campsites from April 1 to Oct. 31 each year. The campground offers 30-amp electric and hookups. Site sizes range from 24 to 50feet, and many of them offer stunning views of the lake. Reservations are required. To learn more about Observation Knob Campground, visit https://observationknob.com/seasonal-camping.
If you prefer yurts to camping, Luxury Yurt Village at Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards is an unforgettable experience. These well-appointed yurts feature one- and two-bedroom units and are perfect for a solitary retreat, romantic getaway, or family vacation. Every yurt is stocked with plush robes, locally curated snacks and beers, Nespresso pods and teas, and the award-winning Nicewonder Vineyards wine. Each yurt also has a wonderful back porch where visitors can enjoy the beautiful views and serenity that Southwest Virginia offers. For more information, visit https://www.nicewonderfarm.com/yurt-overview.
