Montgomery Bell State Park offers numerous hiking trails with both historical sites and natural features within a 30-minute drive from Burns, Tennessee. The park includes three lakes, a restaurant, and multiple camping options from tent sites to cabins. River Road RV Park & Horse Camp provides access to the Duck River for fishing and kayaking, plus horse accommodations five minutes from water activities. Henry Horton State Park features backcountry campsites along the river that provide seclusion while remaining accessible for beginners.
What to do
Fishing and water recreation: Montgomery Bell State Park Campground includes three lakes for fishing opportunities. "We stayed at this campground recently and because the wifi coverage and speed was so good was actually able to 'work from home' here," notes Randy C., who also mentions the well-maintained hiking trails.
Historical exploration: Visit Loretta Lynn's Ranch in Hurricane Mills for a glimpse into country music history. According to Debra F., "The best part of our stay was the tour of the plantation and Loretta Lynn's Museum." The ranch offers various camping accommodations including equestrian-specific spots.
Nature trails: Henry Horton State Park Campground provides riverside hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Amanda C. explains, "The backcountry campsites are just a short trek from the camp store, the hike itself follows the river. We only saw one other couple and no one else was staying at the second site so it was such a secluded weekend!"
What campers like
Family-friendly facilities: At Montgomery Bell State Park Campground, families appreciate the well-designed camping spaces. "With a great pavilion, Vb court, ball diamond, and playground, the far side of the camp is perfect for families, groups, and events," says Stæven F., who recommends sites 1-8, with sites 1 and 2 positioned right next to the creek.
Pet-friendly environments: Many campers bring their dogs to Henry Horton State Park Campground, where there are plenty of areas for dogs to exercise. Laur H. notes, "Plenty of places for the kiddos to ride their bikes. We loved it here and will definitely return."
Equestrian accommodations: Horse owners find suitable facilities at Loretta Lynn's Ranch. Amelia R. states, "I love Loretta Lynn's! Lots of options for all types of camping. They have equestrian spots, RV spots, tent spots, and cabins for rent. Plus so much to do on the property!"
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Henry Horton State Park remains open year-round, making it suitable for winter camping. Gabe W. reports, "The bathrooms are nice and warm in the winter and clean," highlighting the park's cold-weather accommodations.
Cell service variations: At Natchez Trace RV Campground, connectivity can be challenging. Laura H. notes, "The park does not have good TMobile or AT&T and other campers stated that Verizon is ok but not streamable." This campground sits on a large property with lake access but limited connectivity.
Bridge height restrictions: When visiting Natchez Trace RV Campground, larger RVs face access challenges. Emerson F. warns, "There is a low bridge (11ft) that you need to pass under to get onto the Natchez Trace Parkway. If you can't fit, you have to take Napier road north several miles."
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated play areas: Campers RV Park offers specific amenities for children. Jessica L. mentions, "There is a playground, hammock hut, and game area for the kids to stay entertained."
Choose riverside sites: Montgomery Bell State Park offers creek-side sites that families particularly enjoy. Tammy P. observes, "Children can wade in the creek all day, why parents enjoy sitting outside under all the shade trees."
Consider off-season visits: Families looking for quieter experiences might prefer non-holiday weekends at Montgomery Bell. Jody A. advises, "If it's not a long weekend and they're not full, I would highly recommend the location for the hiking and the remoteness. When it's full, it's just too crowded."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Loretta Lynn's Ranch, not all sites are equally level. Ian O. cautions, "Area is beautiful but sites were close together and the ground outside of my trailer was very unusable, all hill and large rocks. No way to spend time outside of the camper."
Pull-through availability: Campers RV Park offers pull-through sites that accommodate larger rigs. Bill P. notes, "Good pull thru sites with full hook ups. 50/30 amp power, water and sewer. Good recreation areas. Good dog walks. Good Wi-Fi."
Level site considerations: When booking at River Road RV Park & Horse Camp, select from their level sites. Christie B. explains, "The sites were level and clean, with both pull-through and back-in options. Full hookups were available, and there's a small laundry area with a shower and bathroom."
