The Cumberland Plateau near Allardt, Tennessee sits at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet, creating distinct camping conditions throughout the year. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while winter nights often drop below freezing. The area's sandstone geology features natural bridges, rock shelters, and deep gorges with several watersheds feeding the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: True West Campground & Stables offers extensive riding opportunities with well-kept facilities. "Nice barns, clean bathhouses, and very friendly staff," notes Michael F., who visited in September 2023. The stables feature "endless hiking, lots of trails to ride" according to Heather S.
Night sky viewing: Pickett CCC Memorial State Park Campground is an internationally designated dark sky park with an astronomy field nearby. "If you're into astronomy or just enjoy looking up at the stars this is the perfect place," explains Clinton N. "Plenty of open spots with privacy. This campground offers sites with open space for stargazing," adds Nate H.
Creek wading: Great Meadows Campground provides creek access directly from campsites. "Tent sites are along a stream on Racoon side," reports TNWoodsman. Another camper mentions you can "camp right by the creek and across the road is a few more spots. There are some swimming holes, just have to find them."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bandy Creek Campground gets high marks for maintenance. "Bathrooms are clean. Bathhouse has an outside sink and a water bottle fountain to refill your bottles," notes Carissa D. Steven D. confirms the "large, spacious sites and very clean restrooms/showers."
Privacy between sites: Frozen Head State Park Campground offers well-spaced campsites. "Campsites are clean and spacious with gravel pad. Two shepherds hooks for hanging lanterns and trash bags," writes Laura D. Another reviewer describes the campground as "rustic but taken care of" with sites that aren't overcrowded.
Family-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer recreational facilities beyond camping. "There is a swimming pool, playground and volleyball net also," says Sarah E. about Bandy Creek. At Pickett CCC, "the lake has a roped off swimming area and also offers boat rentals," according to Clinton N.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have issues with water systems. At Maple Hill RV Park, one camper reported: "We didn't notice this the first day, but I started seeing brownish water in our toilet. As we used the water more, it became evident that whatever water is being pumped into their system isn't good."
Supply planning: Local towns require some driving for provisions. "[For] propane... fillings at Tractor Supply (Oneida40m/Jamestown25) or Schaefer and Schaefer Welding Supplies (Oneida40m)," advises Josh J. He adds that "groceries: Walmart (Oneida40m/Jamestown~25) [and] Dollar Trees (Jamestown or near Eglin/Robbins both are ~20m away)."
Winter preparations: Brooks Corner Campground & RV Park can get very cold and dark. "It is very quiet and very dark. This is very rural," notes Josh J. At Great Meadows Campground, campers are advised to "bring your own water while there's a chance of frost."
Tips for camping with families
Toddler considerations: Not all trails are suitable for very young children. "Most of the trails are much longer than 2 miles, so there wasn't much to do with our two toddlers," reports Chelsea D. about Bandy Creek. However, she notes "the tent pads were huge, lots of space to play at each site."
Wildlife education opportunities: The area has diverse animal sightings. "We were hoping to see a black bear but had no luck," mentions a Bandy Creek camper. At Great Meadows, one visitor "got surprised by a bear while gathering firewood nearby," creating a memorable nature experience.
Kid-friendly parks: Some locations specifically cater to younger visitors. Pickett CCC "makes the campground excellent for kids. The lake has a roped off swimming area and also offers boat rentals," writes Clinton N. Another reviewer describes it as "a good State Park to visit with younger children."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Site preparation varies significantly between campgrounds. At Bandy Creek, "the sites in the front are far more level than the ones in the back where the green space is located," advises one camper. Another notes at Pickett CCC: "We booked a campsite with electric and water. The sites are very unlevel."
Site length limitations: Larger rigs may struggle at certain campgrounds. "The sites were a bit short and we couldn't park our tow vehicle in front of our 17' camper. So large campers beware," warns Chelsea D. about Bandy Creek.
Alternative accommodations: For those wanting RV amenities without bringing their own, several dog friendly campgrounds near Allardt offer cabin options. "True West Campground & Stables had campsites, covered wagons, and cabins," notes Pam B., adding they have "a small camp store and sold firewood."
Legend
