Tent camping options near Bolivar, Tennessee primarily consist of small, family-operated sites with basic amenities. The region sits within Tennessee's western plateau area, characterized by rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests. Summer temperatures regularly reach 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons for most visitors.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cox Lake, located in Holly Springs National Forest, offers fishing as its main attraction. "Great little fishing lake," notes camper B C., making it a suitable destination for anglers wanting a quiet spot to cast their lines.
Farm activities: At Stillwaters Farm Rustic Campsites, visitors can participate in various agricultural experiences. The farm setting creates unique opportunities for campers interested in rural life. Ashley F. mentions that "You can choose to participate in farm activities or kick your feet up and relax."
Hiking nearby: Several undeveloped trails run through the surrounding woodlands, offering casual hiking opportunities. The terrain is generally mild with modest elevation changes, making trails accessible to most fitness levels during dry weather conditions.
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the quiet setting at Stillwaters Farm. Ashley F. describes it as "not your run of the mill farm" and encourages visitors to "check them out for yourselves."
Simple setup: For those seeking basic accommodations, Cox Lake provides straightforward camping with minimal frills. Kelly C. suggests it as "a good place to pitch your tent for a night" if you're looking for somewhere to stop while traveling through the area.
Nature observation: The agricultural and woodland setting attracts various wildlife. Bird watching opportunities exist throughout the year, with spring migration bringing additional species through the area.
What you should know
Limited amenities: The best tent camping near Bolivar, Tennessee offers rustic experiences rather than full-service facilities. Cox Lake has minimal amenities and some maintenance issues, with Kelly C. noting "lots of litter and shot gun shells" around the lake area.
Reservation requirements: Some sites require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. Contact campgrounds directly to confirm availability and reservation policies.
Weather considerations: The region experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters. Spring brings frequent thunderstorms while fall offers the most comfortable temperatures and lower humidity levels for tent camping.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: When camping with children, bring additional entertainment options as structured activities are limited. Most sites offer open spaces for games and exploration but lack formal playgrounds or programs.
Site selection: Choose locations based on available facilities that match your family's needs. Stillwaters Farm offers more amenities than other options, with showers and toilets available for campers.
Pet policies: Check pet rules before arrival as policies vary significantly between locations. While some sites welcome pets, others like Stillwaters Farm maintain strict no-pet policies to preserve the farm environment.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: RV camping options near Bolivar are extremely limited. Tent camping dominates the local camping scene with few designated RV spots available.
Access roads: Many secondary roads leading to camping areas near Bolivar may be unpaved or narrow. Check road conditions before attempting access with larger vehicles, especially after rain when mud can create hazards.
Alternative options: Traditional RVers seeking hookups should consider commercial campgrounds in larger towns approximately 30-45 miles from Bolivar, as the immediate area primarily caters to tent camping enthusiasts seeking rustic experiences.