chester frost campground tennessee
Small
They sure know how to pack people in; it's an extremely small site.
161 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The Cumberland Plateau region surrounding Altamont, Tennessee features numerous established campgrounds amid rolling hills and scenic gorges. Primitive sites, RV hookups, and glamping accommodations are available within South Cumberland State Park's network of campgrounds, including Stone Door, Savage Falls, and Alum Gap locations. Greeter Falls Campground, a newer addition to the area, provides both developed sites with full hookups and deluxe primitive options within walking distance to waterfalls. Fall Creek Falls State Park, approximately 25 miles north, offers cabins alongside traditional camping, while smaller private campgrounds like Hammock Sway provide alternatives for travelers seeking more rustic experiences.
Road conditions vary throughout the region, with most established campgrounds accessible via paved roads, though some backcountry sites require short hikes from parking areas. A visitor remarked that Alum Gap campground offers "an easy hike (almost too short!) from the visitor center" with "plenty of spacious campsites." Reservations are strongly recommended for all campgrounds in the South Cumberland State Park system, especially during peak summer and fall weekends. Weather patterns in this elevated region include sudden afternoon thunderstorms during summer months and occasional winter precipitation that may affect trail conditions. Water access can be limited at certain backcountry sites, particularly during drier periods, with several reviews noting the need to collect water from nearby springs or falls areas.
Waterfall access represents a significant draw for campers throughout the region, with several campgrounds strategically positioned near popular cascades. Greeter Falls, Stone Door, and Savage Falls campgrounds all provide relatively easy hiking connections to their namesake features. According to one camper, Alum Gap campground is situated at "a nexus of trails that will take you to everything you want to see in this part of the park." Sites near waterfalls tend to fill quickly during warmer months when swimming is possible at the base of many falls. Reviews consistently mention privacy between sites at the backcountry campgrounds, though the more developed RV areas at Fall Creek Falls and Rock Island State Parks feature typical campground spacing with more amenities. Cell service varies significantly across the plateau, with better coverage on elevated areas and limited or no service in gorges and more remote locations.
"Foster Falls is located at one end of the Fiery Gizzard Trail, one of the most beautiful trails in Tennessee, possibly the country!"
"We used two cars and parked one at our campsite here, and brought one to the beginning of the Fiery Gizzard Trail."
from $18 - $21 / night
Check Availability"Fall creek falls is one of the best recreational areas in Tennessee. The park is very large and has so much to do. The falls are amazing, and it’s a moderate hike down to the base."
"Tons to do at one of Tennessee’s top state parks."
"Alum Gap campground, situated in the backcountry of Tennessee, is not only a hidden gem but also a perfect choice for those new to backpacking."
"The hike down the Laurel trail was really mellow. Roughly a 3 mile gradual descent and then you can branch off and hike to some of the falls on the West side of the park."
from $8 - $12 / night
Check Availability"Porta potties close by lit with fairy lights at night. I was impressed as they were clean. Self check in. I saw a deer on the way to the bathroom."
"It was a 2 hour drive from where we got married. Got here close to midnight and they had a yurt ready for us. They where more than happy to accommodate us!"
from $20 - $70 / night
Check Availability"Recycling bins were also located near the well lit bathrooms."
"The campground itself borders the duck river and is absolutely stunning. The hiking trails are well maintained so hiking to the three waterfall's inside the park is a mild hike."
"The campsites are secluded, but very close to the parking lot. There is an outhouse and drinking water close to the campsites. Each site has a fire ring and plenty of space. "
"Not many people around quite, secluded and very peaceful. Tent camping only with reservations. Lots of hiking near by and great places to explore."
from $8 - $35 / night
Check Availability"Savage Gulf Natural Area is massive with several miles between entrance points that lead to stunning overlooks of the gorges and gulfs, and several miles worth of trails within each location."
"camp ground at Alum Gap is Nice, Water a short walk from camp site if you are backpacking. My husband and I are very fond of this particular camp site."
"This is a primitive camping experience in the pristine woods of Van Buren County, TN about 20 miles(30 minutes) outside of McMinnville, Tennessee. The campground borders the beautiful Rocky River."
"Chris is very helpful, friendly and willing to show you around upon arriving. You will also be introduced to all his great dogs. After that you won’t be bothered unless you need help."
from $25 - $89 / night
Check Availability"The staff will come around and collect your trash for you (which isn’t necessary but a nice plus!)"
"This park is located in Manchester, TN right next to I-24, so if you are in the pull-throughs on the front row, you will hear the traffic. The staff was extremely friendly and helpful."
from $32 - $102 / night
Check Availability"Close to Mount Eagle. Large pull thru site with full hookups. Live music,zip lines & frizby golf. Beautiful farm with waterfalls& lots of nearby hiking trails."
"Clean, great walking trails, fun zip lines. Clean bath house only one shower but it wasn't a problem getting in. Needs a bench in bathroom."
from $45 - $60 / night
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They sure know how to pack people in; it's an extremely small site.
Smooth Rapids is hands down one of our faves. We like to rent 19 & 20 together. It gives elbow room and lets us pull power and water from Lot 19 over to where we park our little teardrop on Lot 20 (which has no power or water itself). The staff team is just terrific. We like to kayak. They rent yaks or if you BYO you can also pay to shuttle. We do both depending whether we want to haul our kayaks. They have a really good bath house and a restaurant. Kids have a playground on one end but we are past those days now. You get a mix of fellow campers. This time of year is busy but even then it is usually a nice time. Folks there tend to be friendly. The Barren Fork River runs right along the entire stretch of campground and behind the restaurant. We typically do the medium length run that takes 2.5-4 hours depending on how aggressively you row. You feel like you are away in the wilderness but you’re really just tooling through McMinnville. We highly recommend it.
They are dishonest and it is not a safe place for children. I have attached a picture of the caboose of their“train”(my son is in the background) with crowbars, trash, debris, etc. that they were allowing children to ride in. I witnessed open slices of cheese sitting on the counter in the heat for the entire day, employees handing people this cheese with their bare hands without washing them. The playground equipment was half painted and falling over. The paint cans as well as cans of wasp spray were underneath where children play for any child to access. Over half of the amenities promised were either closed, hazardous, or not available. Only excuses from the owner. No accountability and no professionalism at all. Stay far away. There many other places that are fun and safe for your children.
People are nice and it's a great place to put a rv and chill with nature
Our family loved how quiet and spacious our spot was. My littles especially loved playing at the playground and dipping their feet in the creek that runs right alongside the campground. We had spot #1 with full hookups, but there are some along the creekside that are water and electric I believe. Overall, great stay and loved the hospitality of the owner. Would stay again!
Sasquatch Farms is a great place to camp or RV. There’s good space between campers. Full hookups, friendly staff. Camp store has a good selection and propane. There is a small lake that’s fun to swim or float. Occasionally live music and seasonal events.
First time staying at this State Park. The West Rim CG is great! Our site is level and spacious. Nice shade too. The facilities are very clean and the grounds well taken care of. Love the grey water drains located throughout the CG. Easy walk to the West Rim trail via a connector trail. We’ll definitely come back!
We followed the confirmation email directions, which took us right to the campground. Check-in was quick, efficient, and exceptionally friendly. We were escorted to back-in Site 55, which was an easy back-in and one of the more spacious sites in the campground. We were glad we chose this site over one of the pull-throughs, which appeared much closer together. The long gravel pad easily accommodated our 40-foot fifth wheel and F-450, with well-positioned utilities. Since we were only overnighting, we did not disconnect. We received two bars on both Verizon and T-Mobile. The campground Wi-Fi was adequate for checking email and general browsing but not streaming. There are plenty of mature trees throughout the campground, so Starlink availability will vary by site. We chose not to deploy ours but believe Site 55 would have provided a usable view of the sky. The campground also features a fenced dog park that is large enough to actually throw a ball and let your dog run. Overall, this is a clean, well-maintained KOA with friendly staff, spacious back-in sites, and a convenient location, and it will definitely remain on our list of campgrounds for future visits to the Chattanooga area.
Amazing view, right on the lake. Quiet and pleasant, with great people supporting the park. Will come back again soon!
Camping near Altamont, Tennessee, offers a variety of beautiful spots to enjoy the great outdoors. From stunning views to family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone in this area.
Camping near Altamont, Tennessee, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for family fun or a peaceful getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Altamont, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Altamont, TN offers a wide range of camping options, with 161 campgrounds and RV parks near Altamont, TN and 6 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Altamont, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Altamont, TN is Foster Falls Campground — South Cumberland State Park with a 4.3-star rating from 32 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Altamont, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Altamont, TN.
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