Duck River runs through central Tennessee's rolling countryside, offering wooded riverside camping areas with access to fishing and water activities. The region typically experiences mild spring and fall temperatures with more humid conditions during summer months. Camping sites near Duck River range from primitive tent areas to full-hookup RV sites depending on proximity to Columbia or Lewisburg.
What to do
Hiking historic trails: Montgomery Bell State Park offers extensive trail systems connecting historical sites throughout the park. "Great family friendly park with lots of hiking and historical sites. There is a beautiful waterfall and an adorable old church," notes Faith S. about the Montgomery Bell State Park Campground.
Cave exploration: Southport Saltpeter Cave provides unique spelunking opportunities 12 miles south of Columbia. The Southport Saltpeter Cave offers guided tours combined with camping experiences. Daniel L. shares, "Enjoyed this rough camping trip and Spelunking with our Royal Ambassador boys (1st to 9th grade). Buddy gives a guided tour along with camping privilege's."
Creek wading: Several campsites in the area provide direct creek access where families can cool off. Tammy P. describes Montgomery Bell State Park: "Children can wade in the creek all day, why parents enjoy sitting outside under all the shade trees. The park has tons of activities and good hiking trails. If you want some good catfish. Go visit the catfish kitchen just down the road from the park."
What campers like
Private tent sites: Many tent campers appreciate sites that offer some separation from RVs. "The state park is absolutely gorgeous. We chose to stay in the tent only camping sites. They are spread out far enough that you don't feel like you are in one another space," notes Lexi S. about David Crockett State Park Campground.
Lakeside spots: Campsites with water views tend to book quickly. One visitor at David Crockett shares, "We really enjoyed our spot by the creek. Children can wade in the creek all day, why parents enjoy sitting outside under all the shade trees."
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept bath facilities. Melonie P. reports, "I stayed at Campground #1, site on the river #18. It was peaceful and so beautiful. The wood and ice prices were very reasonable. The great check-in girl at the desk was very sweet and informative."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Several campgrounds in the Duck River region have spotty connectivity. A visitor to Thousand Trails Natchez Trace notes, "The park does not have good TMobile or AT&T and other campers stated that Verizon is ok but not streamable."
Access restrictions: Some campgrounds have specific approach routes due to low bridges or other limitations. Laura H. advises about Thousand Trails Natchez Trace: "There is a special way to get into this park. They have a low bridge right outside of their park that prevents you from getting here the easy way. The bridge is at 12ft if I remember correctly, it is too low for most 5th wheels and many class As."
Site availability: Lakeside and premium sites book up quickly, especially during summer months. One camper mentions, "Good luck getting a lakeside site since I was told only 8 are available and are full most of the time."
Tips for camping with families
Group-friendly areas: Some campgrounds feature special areas designed for family gatherings. "With a great pavilion, Vb court, ball diamond, and playground, the far side of the camp is perfect for families, groups, and events. Our fave sites are 1-8, with #1+2 right next to the creek and the most updated bathrooms," recommends a visitor at Henry Horton State Park Campground.
Weekend planning: Book early for holiday weekends to secure desired sites. One camper at Henry Horton advises, "Make your reservations early!! Beautiful area lakes, groomed trails, nice hosts - highly recommend."
Beginner backpacking: For families wanting to try backpacking without committing to difficult hikes, some parks offer accessible backcountry sites. Amanda C. shares, "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!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some campgrounds in the area have uneven sites requiring additional work to level RVs. A visitor to David Crockett State Park notes, "The site I had was a little awkward backing into and the water hookup was on the wrong side for my camper. Nice facilities."
Spacing considerations: During busy periods, some campgrounds can feel crowded for larger rigs. Jody A. observes about Montgomery Bell, "When it's full, it's just TOO full. Too many people, dogs and kids that are too close together. It's a shame because it's in a beautiful park, they just need more room between the sites."
Setup assistance: Campers RV Park in Columbia offers pull-through sites that accommodate larger vehicles. Bill P. confirms, "Good pull thru sites with full hook ups. 50/30 amp power, water and sewer. Good recreation areas. Good dog walks. Good Wi-Fi."
