Savage Gulf State Park offers extensive camping options across 17,000 acres of wilderness on the Cumberland Plateau, with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,800 feet. The region's moderate climate allows for year-round camping, though winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night. Dispersed camping areas near Beersheba Springs provide direct access to over 50 miles of hiking trails connecting to multiple waterfalls.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 4 miles of hiking trails connect the camping areas to waterfalls at Fall Creek Falls State Park. The park features "miles and miles of trails; short, long, loops, overnights. This place has it all. Make sure you do three things while you're there: hike to the bottom of the big waterfall (Fall Creek Falls), swim in the cascades next to the nature center, and stand on the edge of the bluff at Buzzard's Roost."
Trail networks: Multiple terrain options for hikers of all skill levels near Savage Falls Campground. "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." The campground is accessible via "a short hike (1-2 miles) from the Greeter Falls parking area" making it "a perfect choice for those new to backpacking."
Swimming holes: Cool off during summer months in designated areas along creek beds. At Smooth Rapids Campground, "We took a river tube and a paddle and it was awesome. They have a shuttle service for your own kayak/tubes if you choose to bring your own. They offer 3 choices of float length."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Natural buffers provide separation at most dispersed sites. At Alum Gap Campground, "We were lucky enough to get campsite #4, which has the best views of the bluff, hands down. The campground is a short hike (1-2 miles) from Upper & Lower Boardtree Falls and Greeter Falls, which are all beautiful. It makes for a great way to spend the afternoon!"
Night sky views: Minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions at higher elevations. One camper at Fall Creek Falls noted that camping areas can be "very dark at night time, especially with little moon, the stars were jaw dropping."
Cell service: Surprisingly strong signals despite remote locations. As noted by a camper at Smooth Rapids Campground: "I have Verizon and had 3 bars and LTE and the data signal was strong for me. Was able to stream, FaceTime, pretty much whatever I wanted."
What you should know
Site selection is critical: Research dimensions before booking, especially at glamping sites close to Beersheba Springs, Tennessee. One Greeter Falls camper advised: "Be sure to check the site measurements. Our only complaint was the site size & distance to our neighbor. We stayed at primitive site 1. Flat area for your tent, then a slight slope towards the walkway."
Seasonal water levels: Waterfall flow varies dramatically based on recent rainfall. A camper at Cloudland Canyon State Park mentioned: "I visited in early October and plan on revisiting during more colorful time in the landscape and after a good rain to see what must be rapid waterfalls and streams."
Limited facilities at backcountry sites: Bring filtration systems for water access. At Savage Falls, campers should "be prepared for a rustic experience, as there are no bathroom facilities or other man-made structures in sight" and "depending on recent rainfall, you might need to collect water back at the Greeter Falls area."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Start with shorter trails for first-time young hikers. The Alum Gap campground was described as "a perfect destination for a first-time backpacker. The trail is easy-moderate, mostly flat with only a few inclines. Most of the sites are large, with lots of space to set up camp and hang out."
Splash areas: Schedule water activities during afternoon heat. Rock Island State Park provides "great hikes and random places to jump into the water" and features "a swimming beach with a rentable pavilion and picnic tables."
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas to keep kids entertained. Old Stone Fort State Park has "good shade and space between sites. The usual picnic table and fire ring" and "bike riding to explore the park is quite common."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Bring extra supports at certain campgrounds with uneven terrain. At Fall Creek Falls State Park, you should "pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out."
RV site selection: Research campground layout before arrival as some areas are more suitable than others. At Manchester KOA, a camper noted: "We reserved one of the spots with a fenced in area for our pups that connected to the camper. They loved having a place to stretch their legs and running around in the grass."
Off-peak value: Consider camping outside summer for more availability and comfort. Many glamping accommodations near Beersheba Springs operate year-round. One camper at Rock Island State Park mentioned the campground has "nice big sites with picnic area and fire ring. Onsite camp hosts that are accommodating and friendly."
