Best Tent Camping near Athens, TN

Looking for an adventure where you can explore Athens and then fall asleep in your tent? With The Dyrt, it's easy to find Athens campgrounds for you and your tent. Search nearby tent campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Athens, TN (53)

    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF

    1. Lost Creek - Cherokee NF

    9 Reviews
    18 Photos
    274 Saves
    Reliance, Tennessee

    Lost Creek Campground is located along the banks of Big Lost Creek. This primitive campground offers remote camping and is surrounded by dense forest and creeks. Lost Creek Campground is open year round. Sites are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. While staying at Lost Creek, campers can enjoy fishing in Big Lost Creek (note: special regulations are in effect for fishing in Big Lost Creek).

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Starr Mountain Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Starr Mountain Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Starr Mountain Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Starr Mountain Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Starr Mountain Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Starr Mountain Area

    2. Starr Mountain Area

    2 Reviews
    9 Photos
    52 Saves
    Delano, Tennessee

    View from Starr Mountain in Cherokee National Forests Starr Mountain is a popular area of the national forest for horse riding & camping with nearly 20 miles of trails and a number of roads available for riding. Lost Corral Campground & Trailhead provides the easiest access to the area. This zone also features Gee Creek Wilderness and the Gee Creek Trail #191 trail that only gets more challenging the further you hike. Access is located off US Highway 411 near the Hiwassee River and state managed Gee Creek Campground. Starr Mountain Area Map Starr Mountain Area Guide

    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Smitty's Lodge Motorcycle Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smitty's Lodge Motorcycle Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground

    4. Cherokee National Forest Chilhowee Campground

    2 Reviews
    7 Photos
    23 Saves
    Benton, Tennessee

    Overview

    Located in the Chilhowee Recreation Area, Chilhowee Group Camp offers camping for up to 75 individuals. Nearby McKamy Lake offers a swim area with a sandy beach and fishing from the bank. On the drive up to the campground, stop at one of the many observation overlooks to enjoy the beautiful mountains. Wildlife is abundant in this area, so have your camera ready and tread lightly.

    Recreation

    Within the recreation area are approximately 25 miles of hiking and biking trails including the Chilhowee Trails System. Chilhowee Group camp is an excellent location for wildlife viewing and accessing a nearby scenic waterfall. Fishing is available on the seven-acre McKamy Lake. Boats are allowed, but gasoline motors are not.

    Natural Features

    The campground is located near the top of Chilhowee Mountain at an elevation of 2,000 feet. It is in a mixed hardwood and pine forest and the lake is a short walk from the group camp.

    Nearby Attractions

    In addition to the immediate local activities, world class whitewater rafting opportunities are nearby on the Ocoee and Hiwassee Rivers.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Goup areas must be cancelled more than 14 days from reservation date to get refund. The $8.00 service fee will still be charged for the reservation

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hiwassee River Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hiwassee River Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hiwassee River Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hiwassee River Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hiwassee River Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hiwassee River Area

    5. Hiwassee River Area

    3 Reviews
    7 Photos
    64 Saves
    Turtletown, Tennessee

    View of Hiwassee River from Hood Mountain Overlook in Cherokee National Forest Forested hillsides and pastoral river bottoms complement the beauty of Hiwassee River Gorge. Fishing, rafting, canoeing and hiking are popular activities. The 21-mile John Muir National Recreation Trail , a section of the longer distance Benton MacKaye Trail, meanders along the river. Camp at the nearby state campground at Gee Creek. Fish Your National Forests: This site can be accessed by Passenger Car; Fish available include: Trout; Types of fishing available include: Wade, Shore, Motorized boat, Fly; Boat Launch available Hiwassee River Area Map Hiwassee River Area Guide

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Snow — Cumberland Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Snow — Cumberland Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Snow — Cumberland Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Frog Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Frog Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Frog Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Frog Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Frog Area

    7. Big Frog Area

    5 Reviews
    5 Photos
    14 Saves
    Ocoee, Tennessee

    View of Big Frog Mountain Area of Cherokee National Forest This area is known for solitude and backcountry adventure, with Big Frog Wilderness being a destination for backpacking, day-hiking and hunting. The area offers about 35 miles of backcountry trails, some of which climb to over 4,000 feet. In addition to the backcountry hiking opportunities, the area is also managed as a Black Bear reserve. Try snorkeling at Conasauga River, renowned for remarkable fish viewing. Pitch a tent at Tumbling Creek or Sylco Campgrounds. Big Frog Area Map Big Frog Area Guide

    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Camp/Citico Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Camp/Citico Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Camp/Citico Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Camp/Citico Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Camp/Citico Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Outdoor Adventure Rafting Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Outdoor Adventure Rafting Campground

    9. Outdoor Adventure Rafting Campground

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    6 Saves
    Benton, Tennessee

    Our Ocoee River Camping site is located on a 6 acre campground where you can park, set up site, build a fire, and hang out. Hammock campers have plenty of trees to choose from and the shade helps keep you cool on those hot summer days. If that’s not cool enough, our property borders the Lower Ocoee and has two take outs allowing easy access into and out of the river for those looking to float or take a swim.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River

    10. Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River

    12 Reviews
    70 Photos
    88 Saves
    Lancing, Tennessee

    Overview

    Rock Creek Campground is located near the Emory River in the Obed Wild and Scenic River.

    Recreation

    Whitewater paddling is available seasonally in the Obed WSR. Rock climbing is another challenging activity, as is boulder climbing. The Obed WSR sports several unique trails for hikers, most notably the Point Trail and a portion of the Cumberland Trail. Those who like to fish will enjoy the Obed WSR, as a variety of bass, bluegill, catfish and other fish populate the river. Birdwatching is also a fun activity, particularly during the migratory seasons.

    Natural Features

    The Obed River winds through the Cumberland Plateau offering a variety of recreational activities for everyone.

    Nearby Attractions

    Just a few miles from the park is Frozen Head State Park which encompasses more than 24,000 acres of forest with mountainous terrain at an elevation from 1,340 feet to over 3,000 feet. Catoosa Wildlife Management Area is an 82,000 acre preserve with a focus on hunting and fishing but offering a wealth of other recreational activities as well. Lone Mountain State Forest is 3,600 acres and has 15 miles of trails for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $15 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 53 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews in Athens

1183 Reviews of 53 Athens Campgrounds


  • Tia K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Morganton Point Campground
    Dec. 9, 2024

    Morganton Point Campground

    Spacious Waterfront Lot

    Camped on lot 14 which was quite spacious with easy access to the water. Tent was located away from the fire pit and picnic table and the restrooms were close by. Campground is small and quiet; hardly any light pollution at my nonelectric site. Firewood and ice are available for purchase on the grounds, so it is convenient when in a pinch!

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground
    Nov. 30, 2024

    Fort Mountain State Park Campground

    The park is fairly nice, I'd avoid site 24

    The park is nice with plenty of amenities. I had two complaints. We stayed creekside at site 24. The site had about a 5 inch difference shopping towards the road. I used rocker blocks maxed out (about 4 inches in height) and still was not level. Secondly with the site, there is a telephone pole that is a bit too close on the exit side. Singing out as far as I could, i barely missed sideswiping my camper when pulling out. The online pictures looked like it was a fairly private spot, but no. Just out of frame was the campground host site who happened to be flying a very offensive flag. I decided to avoid her. Lastly, gravel from most of the sites was washed out into the road. That could, and should have been cleaned up.

  • Kim L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Nov. 26, 2024

    Cades Cove Campground

    Near popular Cades Cove scenic drive

    Approx 20 miles from main visitor center. The scenic drive increases congestion and traffic. Camp store is near campsites. Also a ranger station. Several hiking trails are accessible from campground. All driveways shaded, paved, and level. Very pleasant place. Only negative is the requirement to check in between 9-10:00 am the following day if one arrived later than check in time, which caused me to change hiking plans.

  • Stoked C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Windrock Ridge Campground
    Nov. 10, 2024

    Windrock Ridge Campground

    Wooded Dispersed Tent Sites For Spaceo

    First time at Windrock Campground. very nice property and has spots for all types of outfits and campers. I’m in a truck camper with a rooftop tent. The wooded tent sites where perfect not all are level so ask to drive through and preview avails before booking. fire ring, table provided. the only down side is that there is heavy SxS traffic on camp roads until late evening. otherwise pretty swanky place to camp. There are open sky spots around the bathhouse if you need solar or satellite. Those are all flat.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground
    Nov. 1, 2024

    Fort Mountain State Park Campground

    Beautiful Fall destination

    We tent camped on Spot 27. Nice back in RV spot with water and electric. Bathhouse is close by. Gray water dump is across the road. Originally we booked Spot 60. That’s a pull through with little room for a tent. No cell service but that’s okay as we disconnected for a while. You can get service at the top of the park. Clean bathrooms with hot showers. Trails are nicely blazed with colors that match trail map. Georgia apple farms are a short, 20-30 minutes away.

  • Meaghan G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground
    Oct. 15, 2024

    Fort Mountain State Park Campground

    Backcountry site #4

    I had a wonderful time at backcountry site #4 this past Sunday - Monday. The hike to the site is downhill from the stone wall parking lot, so it was pretty easy to get to at only 1 mile. The site is private and pretty large. There were plenty of trees for hammocks and a few flat spots for small tents. A small creek flows through the site for easy water access (but I was told that it doesn’t flow all year).
    The best part of site #4 is that it’s about 0.2 miles from a beautiful west facing overlook where I enjoyed the sunset. I can’t recommend this site every .

  • Donny A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Howland's Hidout
    Oct. 15, 2024

    Howland's Hidout

    Nice backyard camping

    Easy to find, close to Fall Creek Falls, Power available, quiet spot except for the coyotes in the woods. Confused Roosters will wake you up at various times. Ear plugs help with the Roosters and coyotes. It's not a campground so don't expect a shower house or bathrooms. I would stay there again. Owner is an exceptional host.

  • Michael T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Mountain State Park Campground
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Fort Mountain State Park Campground

    A lot offered in a well kept site

    This is a great park with a lot to offer and more in the near vicinity. 

    Cell reception (T-Mobile) was non-existent in the site. However, there was reception at the trading post and possibly elsewhere. 

    They're installing Bear Boxes in tent sites back and front country (as I understood it) and are clearly paying attention to what people want and how to improve visitors experiences. 

    A lot of the sites are RV orientated. But the walk in tent sites are really close to the parking area. Also, nearby backcountry platforms and sites can be easily accessed. 

    If you want walking access to the trails, it's probably best to choose a site near the lake as that's where most trails are accessed from.

  • Cindy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground
    Sep. 19, 2024

    Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground

    Beautiful campground and beautiful scenic drive

    We arrived and we got to pick out our own campsite. Thanks to the friendly and helpful staff. Bathrooms were clean and the showers were warm water beautiful tall trees provided shade. Scenic Drive was stunning.

  • V
    Camper-submitted photo from Fooshee Pass Campground
    Sep. 13, 2024

    Fooshee Pass Campground

    Beautiful and well maintained!

    Ample space, gorgeous views of the lake, and super friendly staff. We stayed in space 19. It is sized for a smaller rig which was perfect for us. We got to watch fish jump and a crane fishing in the morning. Only caught small fish, but the kids had a blast swimming. The lake is shallow with a slow grade which was perfect for our young children. Everyone was friendly and respectful. The bathrooms were clean and it was a nice bonus to have a no-charge shower available for tent camping.

  • Angie B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fontana Village Resort and Campground
    Sep. 10, 2024

    Fontana Village Resort and Campground

    Favorite Vacation Spot

    We have stayed at the Campground for 15 years!  Love Beth who helps with Reservations. I really like the fact it is a very small campground, sitting back a long way off the main road.  Sites are spread out. Shower house easy access from all sites. Very few, if any kids when we go.  Having all the amenities of Fontana Village Resort is icing on the cake. I've already made Reservations for 2025.

  • Mary D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hornsby Hollow Campground
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Hornsby Hollow Campground

    Beautiful Sites!

    The campground was one of the most scenic I've been to. Some of the lakefront spots had their own access to the lake and plenty of trees. The camp host was amazing!

  • Sarah H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Conasauga Overflow Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Lake Conasauga Overflow Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest

    Long drive down gravel roads

    It took us about 1.5 hours to reach the campground from where the pavement ended. It gets rough in places, but a sedan can do it if it's dry. Once you finally reach the campground, it is nice. Nestled way back in the woods. No power or water hookups. A couple of water hydrates throughout the campground. No alcohol permitted. It is a wildlife management area. There is a host in the campground. Beautiful scenery!

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Cades Cove Campground

    Awesome time

    If you're looking for peace and quiet, then this is the place to be. Had numerous sightings of wildlife even in the campground. Note... Do not forget to remove the drip pan on the Blackstone!!!! Doing so just erritates the bears.

  • rhett T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Wilmington KOA
    Aug. 17, 2024

    Wilmington KOA

    Nice but crowded

    It was a nice campground. But it is set up to be too crowded. Not my kind of camping. But they stated was friendly. The restrooms weren’t so bad considering how many kids was there. Couldn’t let the dogs walk free so that sucked.

  • m
    Camper-submitted photo from The Crosseyed Cricket
    Aug. 17, 2024

    The Crosseyed Cricket

    I like it

    I prefer playing cricket for physical exercise rather than virtual games like Nulls Brawl. It's a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, especially in beautiful locations like The Crosseyed Cricket Campground in Tennessee.

  • Molly B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Parksville Lake RV Campground
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Parksville Lake RV Campground

    Beautiful and quiet

    This quiet little camp site is in the heart of the cherokee Forest. It’s so beautiful. Each site is a good distance away from the other and there is the constant sound of the creek flowing right next to it. The bathrooms are clean and right in the middle a perfect spot for a getaway

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Boundary
    Jun. 25, 2024

    Indian Boundary

    Camping

    Nice place good quiet. Just would be better if they had water at each site. And a duping station too

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Lotterdale Cove Campground
    Jun. 23, 2024

    Lotterdale Cove Campground

    Camping

    Very nice and beautiful quiet place Beautiful lake. And sunsets too and pet are welcome Just a little bit of heaven ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

  • Tonya R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Double Camp/Citico Creek
    Jun. 20, 2024

    Double Camp/Citico Creek

    Citico Creek Campsites

    Family oriented, clear & cold waters, beautiful views, peaceful thoughts, and convenient campsites. Great to visit with your friends and family.


Drive Time


Guide to Athens

Tent camping near Athens, Tennessee offers a variety of scenic spots where nature lovers can unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. With options ranging from serene riverside sites to more rugged backcountry experiences, there's something for every tent camper.

Tent campers should check out Lost Creek - Cherokee NF

  • Enjoy a peaceful stay at Lost Creek - Cherokee NF, where you can set up camp along the creek and take in the sounds of nature.
  • This well-reviewed site features picnic tables and fire pits, making it perfect for evening gatherings around the fire.
  • With no reservations required, it’s a great option for spontaneous camping trips, though be prepared for a crowded weekend.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting at the Ocoee River Area, where you can camp right by the river and enjoy a day of adventure.
  • For those who love hiking, Laurel Snow — Cumberland Trail offers scattered campsites near beautiful waterfalls and challenging trails.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities at Hiwassee River Area, where you can cast a line right from your campsite.

Explore unique features at Smitty's Lodge Motorcycle Campground

  • Smitty's Lodge Motorcycle Campground provides clean restrooms and showers, along with picnic tables and fire pits for a comfortable camping experience.
  • Located near the Cherohala Skyway, this campground is ideal for motorcycle enthusiasts looking to explore the scenic routes of Tennessee.
  • The friendly hosts and spacious sites make it a welcoming spot for both tent campers and cabin renters alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Athens, TN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Athens, TN is Lost Creek - Cherokee NF with a 4.8-star rating from 9 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Athens, TN?

    TheDyrt.com has all 53 tent camping locations near Athens, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.