Tennessee's Cumberland Plateau provides unique geological features for glamping near Bloomington Springs, Tennessee. With elevations ranging from 1,500 to 1,800 feet, the area maintains slightly cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, particularly during summer evenings. Platform camping sites remain a signature feature at several parks, designed to keep campers level on the region's uneven terrain.
What to do
Hiking diverse trails: Fall Creek Falls State Park offers numerous trail options from beginner routes to challenging paths. "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, swim in the cascades next to the nature center, and stand on the edge of the bluff at Buzzard's Roost," reports one visitor.
Kayak or canoe: Rock Island State Park provides access to calm lake waters and more challenging river sections depending on water release schedules. "The best hike is in the Twin Falls area but that is a 10-15 minute drive from the campground. We also saw people kayaking on the lake and fishing is permitted," notes one camper.
Tennis and sports activities: Some parks include full recreation complexes with multiple court games. A visitor to Cumberland Mountain State Park mentions, "This is a larger state park that includes a restaurant, golf course, pool, etc. but also some nice trails to enjoy the natural beauty of the area."
What campers like
Unique platform sites: Edgar Evins State Park features distinctive wooden platforms built into hillsides. "We love the platform sites that are so spacious and private. Easy access to dump station and bath houses. Almost all sites have view of water. It was very peaceful and quiet," shares a regular visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campsites allow for animal observation from your tent or cabin. "We stayed here in November 2017; we camped in the primitive camping section which has a parking area up top and you hike with your equipment down some stairs into a wooded area with about 7 primitive campsites. We could see and hear the lake from our campsite," reports a tent camper.
Swimming options: Spacious Skies Belle Ridge offers water recreation beyond just hiking trails. "Took my kids swimming here last weekend. We got a day use pass pass $5 per adult. Kids under 6 are free to get in so all my kids were free. The kids had the best time," writes a day visitor who enjoyed the lake swimming area.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Reserve well in advance for holiday weekends, especially at the most popular parks. A camper at Cedars of Lebanon State Park notes, "Beautiful park with tons to do. Campsites in area 1 were a little close together. Reserve early because it seems the campground is always full."
Site spacing varies significantly: Some parks offer more privacy than others, even within the same campground. "The sites are tiered and you will get a workout if your walking from one level to the next, which if you need the showerhouse, you will be on certain tiers," warns an Edgar Evins visitor.
Road noise at some locations: Proximity to highways can affect the wilderness experience. A Belle Ridge visitor observes, "The campground was very nice with what seems to be lots to do, as far as hiking and sightseeing. One advantage/disadvantage is it is located right off 40. If you are placed in one of the sites in the front it's going to be very noisy."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beaches with amenities: Several parks offer dedicated swimming areas designed for children. "The nearby swimming beach was great for the kids. Many short hiking options available. Make sure to visit the ranger station for a map and safety rules during water releases," advises a Rock Island State Park visitor.
Playground access: Dale Hollow Damsite includes facilities specifically for children. "Our family loves coming here every year; the amenities are kept clean and in good working order, the campsites are well maintained and it has a beautiful biking/walking path. The fish hatchery is fun for kids and there is a perfect swimming area by the dam."
Educational opportunities: Ranger-led programs provide learning experiences throughout the summer. "Very informative pontoon boat tour with a Park Ranger. Great lunch at the marina too!" shares an Edgar Evins camper who participated in organized activities.
Tips from RVers
Platform camping considerations: The unique deck-style sites require some adjustment for RV camping. "We arrived after dark, and left fairly early the next morning so didn't spend a lot of time there. Parking sites are on wooden platforms which was fine for our Winnebago Revel," explains an Edgar Evins visitor.
Narrow roads at some parks: Larger rigs should research site access carefully. "Be wary of the speed bumps throughout the campground, they are closely spaced and rather abrupt, take them very slowly. The sites are all elevated platforms due to the steep slope to the lake, which we had not encountered before, but are very widely space," notes an RVer at Edgar Evins.
Camp store availability varies: Not all parks offer on-site supplies. A Dale Hollow visitor mentions, "It is close enough to the small town to pick up anything needed; but there isn't any camp store at the site itself."
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