TVA Pickwick Dam Campground sits along the Tennessee River in Savannah, Tennessee, offering a mix of riverside camping and fishing access. With a 4.5-star rating from 314 reviews, it draws visitors looking for a scenic base near the dam. This review compiles what recent campers have reported about their stays, highlighting both praised features and recurring concerns.
TVA Pickwick Dam Campground at a Glance
Located at 1845 Wharf Rd, Savannah, TN 38372, TVA Pickwick Dam Campground is a campground category listing with a price level of 0 and a phone number of +1 865-361-9492. The official website is https://gocamptennessee.com/pickwick-dam-campground/, and it sits at coordinates 35.0671811, -88.2601682 in the America/Chicago timezone. The campground is listed as suitable for children and allows dogs. It offers RV camping with a camping fee, and the listing indicates it accepts credit and debit cards, though some sources mention cash-only payments may apply. On-site parking is available, and accessibility features include wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking, and toilets. The surrounding area includes the Tennessee River and nearby attractions like Corinth and Shiloh Battleground Monument, as noted by a reviewer.
What Do Visitors Like About TVA Pickwick Dam Campground?
Visitor feedback for TVA Pickwick Dam Campground is mixed, with many praising the clean facilities, spacious sites, and friendly hosts, while others report issues with maintenance, odors from a nearby paper mill, and staff behavior. The campground holds a 4.5-star average from 314 reviews, indicating generally positive experiences, but individual reviews reveal a range of opinions.
1. Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities
Several reviewers highlight the cleanliness of the campground. Michele described the restrooms and showers as clean, and Sistersoe noted the bathhouses were clean with hand soap and plenty of toilet tissue. John Messer called the bathrooms spotless, and Mandy Bourland praised the hosts for keeping everything maintained and cleaned. Juanita Thouin described the campground as very clean and well-kept. However, Bill Seratt reported that during a recent visit, the grass was not mowed, bathrooms were out of toilet paper, and some were locked, indicating that maintenance can vary.
2. Fishing and River Activities
Fishing is a major draw for many visitors. LotusTN called it one of their favorite places to fish for smallmouth, noting the campground is nice and spaced out. Bruce Thomas mentioned lots of fishing at the dam, and John Messer highlighted fishing opportunities from the bank or along the walk below the dam. Michele noted the presence of a boat ramp, and Juanita Thouin mentioned a boat ramp for fishing and shore fishing with a license required. Garden Gal enjoyed watching barges pass by on the river.
3. Site Conditions and RV Considerations
Reviewers have commented on site layout and levelness. Michele warned that many sites have a drop-off from the road, which can be tricky for fifth wheels, requiring careful leveling. Juanita Thouin found the sites fairly level, and Garden Gal described them as spacious. Dymm Witt mentioned the campground is conveniently located to Corinth and Shiloh Battleground Monument. Some sites have shade, according to Juanita Thouin, and most have water and electric.
4. Staff and Host Interactions
Experiences with staff and hosts are mixed. Sistersoe praised hosts Barb and John for doing a great job and making check-in easy, and Mandy Bourland also appreciated their efforts. Juanita Thouin found the staff very friendly, and Dymm Witt described the office staff as friendly and efficient. In contrast, April Moore reported an unpleasant experience with a female employee who complained about their activities, and Angie Bailey described a rude encounter with a staff member on a golf cart. Melissa Jenkins criticized a host for acting like a mall cop and being confrontational.
5. Odor from Nearby Paper Mill
A recurring concern is the smell from a paper mill across the river. Tony Karushis noted a strong smell and mentioned they were not aware of it beforehand. Dymm Witt warned that under the right wind conditions, the pulp mill can smother the campground with stink. Melissa Jenkins acknowledged the paper mill but still considered it a great experience if you can get past it.
6. Pricing and Discounts
Pricing and discount policies have drawn comments. Michele advised informing staff about the America the Beautiful Pass to get $9 off per night. Juanita Thouin reported that in late April 2025, the rate was $35 per night with a $9 discount, plus a $5 non-refundable registration fee and a two-night minimum stay. They also noted that the 50% senior discount for National Park pass holders is not honored. Dymm Witt felt the campground was not cheap enough given the facilities.