Lockhart's Arch Shelter near Signal Mountain, TN, is surrounded by forested terrain with rocky outcrops. Temperatures range from 30°F in winter to 85°F in summer. Nearby attractions include the Cumberland Trail and Signal Point, offering hiking opportunities and scenic views.

The Tennessee River Gorge Segment consists of four trail sections: Signal & Edwards Points, Poplar Spring, Mullens Cove Loop, and Pot Point Loop.

This campsite is part of that trail - a campsite on a spur off the trail. It is not for general public use - it is not drive in.

Lockhart's Arch Shelter - on the Cumberland Trail

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Signal Mountain, TN is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Signal Mountain, TN. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Signal Mountain

The Best Camping Near Signal Mountain, Tennessee

The southernmost campsite on the Cumberland Trail, the Lockhart's Arch shelter is only 1.8 miles from the southern Terminus of the CT, at Signal Point. The hike in to this shelter is moderate, passing beautiful views at Julia Falls Overlook, and a cool suspension bridge as it crosses Middle Creek.

The shelter is after climbing out of Middle Creek Gorge, and follows a spur trail off the CT that is not marked, making this shelter somewhat difficult to find in the dark.

The shelter is very small, covered on three sides, with enough room to fit 2-3 adults. It has a small shelf to store gear, and a few nails to hang bags on, but does not have anything hanging from the ceiling to help protect your food from mice, so take appropriate food storage measures. The space the shelter occupies is small, but has enough room for one or two small backpacking tents if you prefer your tent to the shelter, though the ground is not very level so be aware of your tent's footprint. There is a well-established fire ring. The closest guaranteed water source is Middle Creek, so be sure to fill water bottles and filter when you cross, although if there has been a lot of recent rain there is a chance of small seasonal streams closer to the shelter.

This shelter is an excellent place to stay if you are looking for a place near Chattanooga to hike in to, if you want to take advantage of the incredible sunsets at the nearby Edwards' Point and have a place to stay without hiking out in the dark, or as a starting point on the southern stretch of the Cumberland Trail. Be aware however that the closest trailhead is at Signal Point, and overnight parking is not allowed, so plan on having a ride! A backcountry permit is also required, though is free and can be obtained through the Cumberland Trail website.

Photos of Lockhart's Arch Shelter - on the Cumberland Trail

Real photos from real campers