The landscape around Carthage, Tennessee varies between 515-590 feet elevation, with the Cumberland Plateau to the east and the Nashville Basin to the west. The climate features hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through August. Campgrounds in this region often experience seasonal flooding during spring rains, particularly at sites closer to Cordell Hull Lake and Center Hill Lake.
What to do
Water sports at Cordell Hull Lake: Percy Priest Lake offers excellent boating and fishing opportunities near many camping areas. At Four Corners RV Resort, campers can rent equipment directly at the park. "We rented the pontoon and enjoyed the beautiful lake," notes one visitor who appreciated the convenience of on-site boat rentals.
Morning wildlife watching: Lakeside camping sites provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. Campers at Percy Priest Lake often report seeing Canadian geese, mallards, and various waterfowl. "We love seeing the geese, their babies, the mallards, the sun rise, and the sun set on the water," writes one visitor to Four Corners RV Resort.
Live music experiences: Nashville's country music influence extends to several rv parks around Carthage. Grand Ole RV Resort & Market features regular performances. "The entertainment for NYE was seriously the most fun we've had out in a while. Nothing says Nashville like live country music!" reports one winter visitor.
What campers like
Concrete camping pads: Unlike some more rustic parks, many RV sites near Carthage feature level, stable surfaces. "The sites are concrete, level and roomy with full hookups (great water pressure!), new picnic tables and fire rings," notes a visitor at Four Corners RV Resort, highlighting the practical amenities for comfortable stays.
Shuttle service options: For those wanting to explore Nashville without driving, Nashville North KOA offers transportation solutions. "We used their shuttle service into Nashville. There is a lot of traffic noise, but that didn't bother us as it may others," explains one camper who appreciated this convenient option.
Waterfront views: Percy Priest Lake provides scenic backdrops at several campgrounds. At Elm Hill RV Resort, "most sites are waterfront and have great sunrise views. The sites are level and have nice firepits," according to a recent visitor who stayed for an extended period.
What you should know
Highway noise impacts: Several campgrounds near major roads experience significant traffic noise. At Nashville North KOA, one camper notes, "Very very noisy due to the highway that runs right on the other side of the tree line. But... the folks running the show are really nice."
Railroad proximity: Some RV parks operate near active train tracks. At Grand Ole RV Resort, a visitor observed, "The downs: spaces are tight, location is in between a railroad and a highway, there is little shade & most spots are all gravel," though they still found their stay enjoyable.
Insect management: Being prepared for insects is essential, particularly at lakeside locations. "MOSQUITOS! The first and last night we stayed the mosquitos were so bad we couldn't be outside," reports a visitor at Four Corners RV Resort, suggesting bug spray as an essential item.
Site spacing variations: Most rv parks near Carthage, Tennessee feature relatively close sites. At Nashville North KOA, a camper observed, "Sites are very close together. Not much room between my rv and neighbor," which may affect privacy expectations during peak seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools as alternatives to lake swimming. At Nashville RV and Cabins Resort, visitors appreciate the "awesome pool and play areas for kiddos," making it suitable for family trips during warmer months.
Playground expectations: When facilities advertise children's amenities, verify specifics before booking. At Grand Ole RV Resort, one family noted, "They show a playset on their map and it was two regular swings and a baby swing. This was disappointing since we had little ones."
Beach conditions: Lakeside beaches may require additional footwear. At Four Corners RV Resort, a visitor commented on the swimming area: "Rocky Bottom must wear water shoes," suggesting parents prepare accordingly for children who want to swim.
Tips from RVers
Site length accuracy: When booking, be precise about your vehicle length requirements. Some campers report tight fits even at advertised big-rig friendly locations. At Grand Ole RV Resort, staff assists with parking challenges: "Backing my trailer is not my strong suite but they guided me through it like it was nothing."
Advance booking necessary: For premium waterfront sites, especially during summer months, reservations fill quickly. "Shady Acres RV Park is a perfect spot for passing through town... My husband made this reservation over the phone with a really trusting kind person. They double checked the availability because they were almost totally full."
Connectivity considerations: Cell service and wifi quality vary significantly between locations. At Nashville North KOA, one long-term visitor noted, "Cellular signals were good for AT&T and TMobile, we were able to work and stream," which proves essential for those needing to stay connected.
