Best Tent Camping near Franklin, KY

Tent campsites near Franklin, Kentucky range from established park sites to more primitive backcountry options. Mammoth Cave National Park offers tent camping at Houchin Ferry Campground, with sites situated along the Green River. Bells Bend Park and Long Hunter State Park also provide primitive tent-only camping options within reasonable driving distance, offering alternatives for tent campers seeking different settings and amenities.

Most tent campgrounds in the area feature basic amenities, with fire rings and picnic tables common at established sites. Houchin Ferry Campground provides concrete picnic tables, fire pits, and tent pads, though no electric hookups or showers are available. Portable toilets are maintained regularly at most locations. Long Hunter State Park features both primitive backcountry sites and more accessible tent camping areas, with some sites positioned directly on the water. A review mentioned that "Primitive campsite 1 has 3 long log benches and a grill. It is located directly by the water, so you have a water filtration source at your finger tips."

Areas farther from developed recreation sites typically offer more secluded tent camping experiences. Backcountry sites at Mammoth Cave National Park require hikers to pack in their supplies and filter water from nearby sources when available. One camper noted that "Despite this campsite being surrounded by the Green River on 3 sides, water is hard to come by here, and hiking it in may be your best bet." Several tent-only areas require reservations, particularly during peak seasons. Bells Bend Park's primitive tent sites need to be reserved through their outdoor center, while Mammoth Cave's campgrounds shifted from first-come, first-served to reservation-only during certain periods. Seasonal factors affect site availability, with some areas becoming muddy during spring months and requiring careful planning for water access during drier periods.

Best Tent Sites Near Franklin, Kentucky (17)

    1. Camp Nashville Highland Rim

    1 Review
    Goodlettsville, TN
    24 miles
    Website

    $32 - $45 / night

    "I had a chance to talk with the owner at Camp Nashville and learned that due to city regulations, it can be difficult to find camping this close to the city. "

    2. Nat Caldwell Park

    1 Review
    Gallatin, TN
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (615) 822-4846

    $50 / night

    3. Houchin Ferry Campground — Mammoth Cave National Park

    9 Reviews
    Brownsville, KY
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (270) 758-2180

    "It's located on the green river and has very spacious campsites. Plenty of room for the kids or dogs to run around. Very secluded. There is a concrete picnic table, pole and fire pit at each spot."

    "Ranger came by twice a day. Very clean port a pottys that are maintained well. Dumpster for trash and each site has a fire ring. Road in is paved and not bad, but has a few hills and is narrow."

    4. Laguardo

    2 Reviews
    Mount Juliet, TN
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (615) 449-6544

    $85 - $120 / night

    5. Narrows Boat Ramp

    1 Review
    Lucas, KY
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 858-1549

    "The Narrows Boat Ramp Barron River Lake is actually more then just a boat ramp.

    There is a marina on site along side the boat ramp and a nice pavilion, playground, nature trail and restroom."

    6. Old Hickory Beach

    1 Review
    Hendersonville, TN
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (615) 847-8091

    $75 / night

    "Old Hickory Beach Day Use Area is not what I would consider a hidden gem..that being said if you like swimming in lake water this is a nice enough area."

    7. Long Hunter State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    J Percy Priest Lake, TN
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (615) 885-2422

    "Primitive campsite 1 has 3 long log benches and a grill. It is located directly by the water, so you have a water filtration source at your finger tips."

    "Long Hunter State Park Primitive Campsites are my kinda camping."

    8. Lone Branch

    1 Review
    Mount Juliet, TN
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (615) 822-4846

    $50 / night

    9. Cook - J. Percy Priest Reservoir

    3 Reviews
    J Percy Priest Lake, TN
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (615) 889-1975

    "Easy to get to, ample room between campers, close to local shopping."

    10. Bells Bend Park

    3 Reviews
    Pegram, TN
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (615) 862-4187

    $10 - $11 / night

    "No drive up. Pack it in, pack it out. Firewood provided. Call the outdoor center for availability. Campground is open year round."

    "Bells Bend Park is close to the city but nature all around. Farmland with spots of woodland. 

    Primitive camping , in the trees on a hill. Group only. There are some tables and some fire rings."

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Showing results 1-10 of 17 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Franklin, KY

869 Reviews of 17 Franklin Campgrounds



Guide to Franklin

Tent camping near Franklin, Kentucky offers a variety of scenic spots where nature lovers can unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. With options ranging from private glamping sites to public campgrounds, there's something for everyone.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • Enjoy the convenience of drinking water and showers at Camp Nashville Highland Rim, making your stay comfortable and refreshing.
  • Whooping Crane Farm provides a unique glamping experience with a cozy canvas tent, picnic table, and a cooking station right by the river.
  • For those looking for a more rustic experience, Houchin Ferry Campground offers primitive sites with fire rings and picnic tables, perfect for a back-to-nature vibe.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Explore the beautiful trails and wildlife at Laguardo, where kayaking and fishing are popular activities on Old Hickory Lake.
  • At Long Hunter State Park Campground, you can hike scenic trails and enjoy swimming spots, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the access to nearby lakes and rivers at Nat Caldwell Park, where you can cast a line and relax by the water.

Tent campers should check out unique features

  • Old Hickory Beach offers a day-use area with a boat ramp and swimming spots, perfect for a fun-filled day by the water.
  • Experience the tranquility of nature at Turnhole Backcountry Campsite, where you can enjoy a secluded spot surrounded by the Green River.
  • For a family-friendly atmosphere, Mountain Top Retreat features cabins and tent sites with stunning views, making it an ideal getaway for all ages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Franklin, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Franklin, KY is Camp Nashville Highland Rim with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Franklin, KY?

TheDyrt.com has all 17 tent camping locations near Franklin, KY, with real photos and reviews from campers.