Valley Head camping options extend beyond the popular locations, with lesser-known sites offering unique experiences. Several primitive campgrounds in the area provide alternatives to the busier state parks, particularly during peak foliage seasons. Temperatures at higher elevations can drop 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands, with nighttime temperatures in spring and fall often requiring extra layers even when daytime hiking is comfortable.
What to do
Waterfall chasing in Little River Canyon: Little River Adventure Company offers convenient access for exploring multiple falls. "We explored DeSoto falls and went to Little River canyon. There is a canyon rim drive if you can't hike. You must spend some time in this area to explore it all. Some of the waterfalls are seasonal dependent upon rainfall," notes Rachel G. from DeSoto State Park Campground.
Lakeside fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer catch-and-release fishing in private lakes. "There is a 6-acre lake for fishing but it's catch and release," reports Julie H. about Tranquility Campground. Bring your own gear as rental options are limited.
Mountain biking on regional trails: The area's elevation changes create challenging terrain for cyclists. "The owner, Giorgio, is a off-road bike rider and a super host. This is a great spot and I would stay here again in a second," says Charles H. about Little River Adventure Company, which also rents pedal and motor bikes for exploring the parkway.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at certain campgrounds. "The West Rim camping loop has a total of 48 tent/RV sites with 30 or 50A hookups, water, gravel tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. This loop is far more wooded and offers a greater variety of site size and privacy, and has an extremely quiet and peaceful vibe to it," explains Stephanie J. at Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground.
Clean bathhouse facilities: Well-maintained restrooms receive frequent mention in reviews. At James H 'Sloppy' Floyd State Park Campground, Liz H. reports: "Bathroom facilities very clean, well kept with lots of light, heat and hot showers. Laundry facilities in the same building."
Seasonal variety: Each season offers distinctive camping experiences. "I've lived here most of my life and each season offers something different. Summertime you can swim, Spring has full waterfalls and beautiful flowers, Fall has colorful leaves, and the winter gives just enough bare trees and icicles for great pictures," shares Arden S. about DeSoto State Park.
What you should know
Internet connectivity challenges: Cell service and WiFi vary dramatically throughout the area. "I work remotely and internet was a challenge. I have phones with Verizon and T-mobile service as well as AT&T and T-Mobile hotspots. The verizon phone was the only service that got any signal at all, and it was spotty," warns Gerri from DeSoto State Park Campground.
Primitive campsite considerations: Basic sites require preparation. "I have stayed in the primitive camping area of this park twice now. The area is kept clean, has potable water from a centrally positioned faucet, and pit toilet. The campsites are along a gated gravel service road for security," explains TNWoodsman about DeSoto State Park.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. "Accessing the campground from the north can be a little bit harrowing as the roads are steep with hairpin curves and somewhat narrow. The route from the south is much easier particularly if you have a large motorhome or a long fifth wheel," advises Bret D. from DeSoto State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Junior Ranger programs: Educational options keep kids engaged. "If you're looking for a spot to carry your kids on one of their first trips, this would be the perfect place. They have scout activities, a Junior Ranger program, playgrounds, swimming pools, and plenty of trails to hike," recommends Arden S. about DeSoto State Park.
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Several campgrounds offer designated play spaces. At Little River RV Park & Campground, Brittney P. notes: "This is a very cute little campground and the owners are very great people! Some of the sites are a little close together but we have honestly been to worse places. Our site was number 5 and we had a great little fire pit and plenty of room for the kids to play."
Site selection for families: Choose campsite locations strategically. At James H 'Sloppy' Floyd State Park, Shelly S. advises: "At the far end there is a playground and one site right behind it. So be careful not to pick it if you don't want to listen to the raucous noises of children."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many sites require adjustment. "The campground was very full, mostly with fifth wheels and motorhomes. Not too many tents or pop-ups. The facilities were very clean and spacious but not very accessible," reports Bret D. about DeSoto State Park.
RV size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. At 1776 RV And Campground, Lisa J. explains: "14 Gravel RV sites FHU 30/50 6 tent sites with electric and water. If you plan on using your cell up here...don't very poor signal but WI FI works great all over the park."
Hookup positioning challenges: Some campgrounds have awkward utility arrangements. Randy G. notes at Wills Creek RV Park: "The sites weren't particularly level, all gravel and the grass appeared hastily sown over unleveled soil with large clumps of clay and rocks present. You had to watch where you walked to avoid twisting an ankle."
