Cabin camping options near Bolivar, Tennessee range from rustic forest settings to waterfront accommodations. Located in southwestern Tennessee with elevations averaging 400-500 feet, this area experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters. The region features several small lakes and ponds with nearby wooded camping areas that remain accessible year-round.
What to do
Fishing and water activities: Wall Doxey State Park Campground offers an 11-foot deep lake with fishing piers. One visitor reported, "There is a boat ramp and fishing pier for the fishermen/water lovers." The park also features "a partially covered bridge that crosses over to an island with a picnic table."
Disc golf in natural settings: Wall Doxey State Park Campground has a disc golf course winding through pine forest. A camper mentioned, "The highlight for us is the disc golf course the winds through the pine forest." The course provides recreational options beyond standard water activities.
Hiking and exploration: Chewalla Lake Recreation Area provides multiple trail options. A visitor described, "Trails are all simple and pretty and include woods, waterfront, boardwalks, etc." The paths are well-maintained with shaded areas, making them accessible during summer heat.
Water park and inflatables: Serendipity Resort includes water recreational features beyond standard swimming. A camper noted, "My kids used the water park. They had a blast on the jumpers and got very wore out." The water park has variable pricing with first-day costs around $20 per person.
What campers like
Fire tower views: Serendipity Resort provides elevated viewing opportunities. A camper described, "There's plenty of room to walk around and a fire tower to climb. You can see some great views up there." This feature offers a different perspective of the surrounding landscape.
Spacious swimming areas: The swimming facilities at Serendipity include larger-than-average pools. According to one review, "There is also a very nice spacious pool that is included as well. The pool is 11ft deep so there's no issues with using the diving board."
Free non-motorized boating: Pickwick Dam Campground provides water access with views of Tennessee River and Pickwick Dam. A visitor noted, "Beautiful view on the TN River and the Pickwick Dam." Another mentioned it's "close to the Shiloh National Military Park" for historical exploration.
Yurt camping options: Yurt camping near Bolivar, Tennessee provides alternatives to traditional cabins. Serendipity Resort offers yurt accommodations positioned near water features. These climate-controlled structures remain comfortable in all seasons while providing a unique overnight experience.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Thousand Trails Cherokee Landing has limited availability. One camper mentioned, "We got cabins for the family, they were very nice (bring your own sheets, towels, and food, they had basic cookware and dining ware but ours is in the camp bin so we used what we brought)."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Campground bathroom quality differs significantly across locations. At Chewalla Lake, a camper noted, "Bathrooms are not kept up, dirty and no lights in the showers." In contrast, Pickwick Dam Campground maintains "nice clean bathhouse" facilities according to multiple reviews.
Halloween events: Wall Doxey hosts special seasonal activities. A visitor shared, "We were invited to the halloween get together at the park. And we had no idea it was such a big deal... Every camp site had wonderful decorations and the kids had such a blast."
Site placement considerations: At Big Buck Resort, site quality varies. One visitor stated the park is "in total disrepair" with few activities, noting "There is nothing to do around here and there is nothing to do in the park."
Tips for camping with families
Bring bug protection: Wooded areas have tick concerns. At Wall Doxey State Park, a camper warned, "The highlight for us is the disc golf course the winds through the pine forest. That also leads me to the one negative...the pine trees... If you are camping here anytime during the warmer months, be ready to pick ticks off of everyone!"
Verify children's activities: Chewalla Lake Recreation Area has swimming areas and playground facilities. A visitor mentioned, "There is a swimming beach" and another noted the "paved trail that passes by a picnic pavilion and playground."
Consider golf cart rental: Serendipity Resort offers golf carts for easier mobility. A reviewer noted, "The only problem is the only handicapped accessible shower is in this shower house and they don't allow you to drive there unless you have a golf cart. And they do rent golf carts for $50 a day."
Check water park pricing: Water features at Serendipity have additional fees. A camper explained, "The water park is a $20 charge a piece on the first day and goes down to $10 a day for the rest of your stay. Be advised you will be charged whether you are going in the water or not."
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Cross City RV Park has entrance concerns for some vehicles. A reviewer noted, "Driveway is a bit steep pulling in and out. I did not have a problem with a 36' TT but a low sitting RV with a long rear overhang may have trouble getting in/out without scraping."
Site leveling requirements: Some campgrounds require additional equipment. At Pickwick Dam Campground, one camper mentioned, "Our Super C Class did require more blocks for leveling in the front on Site 6. However, it was a very nice site with plenty of privacy."
Cell service information: Coverage varies between providers. At Pickwick Dam, a camper reported, "Three bar Verizon service" while another at Cross City confirmed, "We got two bars on Verizon and a clear shot north for Starlink."
Campsite spacing considerations: At Thousand Trails Cherokee Landing, a reviewer appreciated, "plenty of room between campsites," while at Serendipity Resort, campers noted sites are "quite close together" with one camper explaining they "would have been billboarded" if adjacent sites were occupied.
