Tent camping near Bell Buckle, Tennessee provides access to elevated terrain across the Cumberland Plateau at 1,800-2,100 feet above sea level. The region experiences moderate rainfall of 50-55 inches annually with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F during peak camping season. Most backcountry camping areas require water filtration systems as natural water sources can fluctuate seasonally depending on rainfall patterns.
What to do
Waterfall swimming: 1.5 miles from Foster Falls Campground with accessible swimming holes below the 60-foot waterfall. "Camping was easy and bathrooms were clean. Really beautiful scenery on somewhat strenuous hikes to waterfalls, some good sport climbing, and a few trails that will take you really high up so you can look down at the beautiful green canopy. Beautiful spot any time of year but we like to go when it's warm enough to swim in the waterfall," notes camper Kelly M.
Rock climbing: Technical routes available for sport climbers of various skill levels. "You can't beat this area for great non-glamorous camping. It gives you just what you need- a spot to set up a tent and so many nearby adventures that you really don't need to be there except to sleep and refuel," shares DrDavid P.
Stargazing: Clear night sky viewing at Ray of Hope Guest Ranch with minimal light pollution. "The yurt sets on the side of a beautiful Tennessee Hill offering almost a complete view of the nighttime sky. We watched the moon rise over a hill directly in front of the campsite, and we even saw a brilliant shooting star blaze across the sky for what seems like an eternity," according to Jeremy H.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Stone Door Campground offers secluded tent sites despite proximity to parking. "Not a far hike in. Isolated camping spots, well marked, out-house nearby, along with water source," writes Aaron M. Another camper adds, "Our family camped here about 2 years ago as our first camping trip together. It was perfect. We love how much space and privacy we had."
Easy water access: Many sites offer lake or stream proximity for filtration convenience. One camper at Turkey Creek Campground reports, "Great straight forward campsite, awesome lake access!" This makes water collection practical for tent campers without carrying large supplies.
Novice-friendly backcountry options: Short hike-in requirements at multiple locations make wilderness camping accessible. "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," notes a camper at Savage Falls. Another adds, "Prefect spot for a short hike-in backcountry camping experience. The hike in is less than two miles and the camp sites are secluded and spread apart."
What you should know
Seasonal insects: Prepare for ticks during warm months. At Long Hunter State Park, a camper warns, "Primitive campsite 1 has 3 long log benches and a grill. It is located directly by the water, so you have a water filtration source at your finger tips. It is a great swimming spot with flat rocks to hang out on. However, it was the most ticks any of us had seen, including tiny seed ticks. We left with multiple bites, and were constantly picking them off each other and our gear."
Variable bathrooms: Facilities range from well-maintained to primitive. One camper notes, "Facilities were not the most maintained but like state park for its location. Lots of louder families while we were there." Another mentions, "The bathhouse was functional, but really only one person can be in there at a time, even with two toilets, as one is not enclosed."
Reservations recommended: Popular sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "Book ahead of time as campsites fill up quickly on weekends!" advises Aaron S. Most state park campgrounds require advance booking through Tennessee State Parks reservation system with fees ranging from $8-20 per night depending on site amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Choose short trail options: Several campgrounds offer minimal hiking distances suitable for children. At Stone Door, a camper reports, "This campsite is great for novice primitive campers. The campsites are secluded, but very close to the parking lot. There is an outhouse and drinking water close to the campsites."
Look for established amenities: Fire rings and tables make meal preparation easier with children. "Each site has a fire pit and plenty of space," notes one parent. Another mentions, "The picnic tables are also very large and made it easy to prepare food and for 5 people to sit comfortably."
Check campground noise levels: Some sites report louder family areas. "The front half of the loop is closest to the trail to the falls, and site 8 has a trail running directly behind it that takes you to the falls overlook, and to the trailhead to walk down to the falls themselves. Our 2 and 5 year old walked from our campsite down to the falls and back up easily," shares one parent about their experience tent camping with small children.
Tips for RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent camping near Bell Buckle focuses on primitive sites. At Horseshoe Bend Marina, an RVer notes, "No service for T-Mobile sprint. We are on site 9 and it's not the most leveled spot. We have a 25ft class C. Arrived at night & got lost due to hardly any visible signs."
Check road conditions: Several campgrounds have restricted access routes unsuitable for larger rigs. "The campground is off the beaten path, so stock up before you get there!" advises one camper about provisions before arrival.
Consider alternative accommodations: Some areas offer both RV and tent options. "Horseshoe Bend Marina has both tent and RV sites available, plus several 'glamping' style tents," notes one reviewer. "Super clean BathHouse hook ups and water worked well. Even had entertainment on Saturday night! Could t ask for a better spot!"
