Fall Creek Falls State Park lies approximately 2 hours from Antioch, Tennessee, spanning over 26,000 acres across the eastern portion of the Cumberland Plateau. The park's limestone terrain creates unique camping environments with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,800 feet above sea level. Seasonal temperatures vary significantly, with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Fall Creek Falls State Park features multiple cascades including its namesake 256-foot waterfall. "The park itself has a scenic loop drive of the gorge, multiple waterfalls to visit, miles on end of hiking trails in which some cross rope bridges, awesome swimming holes, and even an olympic pool with diving boards and a snack shack for the kiddos," notes Brandie D. from Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground.
Hiking trail systems: The extensive trail networks offer routes for all skill levels. "One of the best hiking parks I've ever been to. Miles and miles of trails; short, long, loops, overnights. This place has it all," shares Myke C. about Fall Creek Falls State Park.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear nights in more remote locations provide exceptional night sky viewing. "Very dark at night time, especially with little moon, the stars were jaw dropping," reports Joseph M. about his experience at Fall Creek Falls.
What campers like
Private camping areas: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options away from busier loops. "The campsite has a tent pad, hooks for lanterns or packs, horse hitches, and a fire ring with a grate attached," describes Mandy C. about the Turnhole Backcountry Campsite, located just over an hour from Antioch.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathhouses and amenities improve the camping experience. "The campground staff (Connie) was wonderful! Overall a clean park with amenities," shares Ashley U. about her stay at Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground, noting that their site "had a fire pit, grill and picnic table."
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate roomier campsites for setup flexibility. "The sites are decently spaced and site 27 was the easiest pull through we've ever had as its angled straight in from the street, no turns or maneuvering to center the rig," explains MickandKarla W. about their experience at Manchester KOA.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Different camping loops offer varied experiences and amenities. "Campground A & B are great for families with kids. C&D are more quiet. Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out," advises Richard F. about Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most horse campgrounds near Antioch, Tennessee require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "We would suggest reserving your spot a bit in advance. We look forward to returning," recommends Gregory G. about Cedars of Lebanon State Park.
Road conditions: Access roads vary considerably in quality and width between campgrounds. "The camp slots on area C are so close to one another that most people couldn't use their fire pits for fear of burning their own tent, or their neighbor's. Every time a camper came in, people panicked fearing their cars were going to get hit because the road is so unbelievably narrow," cautions Andrea S. about Fall Creek Falls.
