Camping spots near Monteagle, Tennessee offer diverse terrain experiences from plateau-top locations to waterside settings. The Cumberland Plateau region ranges in elevation from 1,500 to 1,900 feet, creating temperature variations that can be 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. Campground facilities vary significantly in their water access, with some locations requiring campers to filter water from natural sources during drier months.
What to do
Hiking to hidden waterfalls: At Foster Falls Campground, campers can access multiple waterfall trails. "Hiking was easy and bathrooms were clean. Really beautiful scenery on somewhat strenuous hikes to waterfalls, some good sport climbing, and a few trails that will take you really high up so you can look down at the beautiful green canopy (or orange if it's fall)," notes Kelly M.
Rock climbing opportunities: The sandstone cliffs near Sequatchie provide excellent climbing routes. "Showers and quiet. No RV hookups or generators, great for real camping. Walkable to the plethora of climbing," explains Jay F. about Foster Falls, which attracts climbers from across the Southeast.
Swimming in waterfall pools: Natural swimming areas become popular during summer months. "Beautiful spot any time of year but we like to go when it's warm enough to swim in the waterfall," shares Kelly M. Swimming holes below the falls offer refreshing alternatives to traditional swimming areas.
Historical exploration: Visit Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park to examine prehistoric Native American ceremonial sites. "Duck River flows through the area with several waterfall breaks along its course. It's not hard to imagine why the Native Americans considered this area spiritually significant. Their history is written along the trail," writes Shelly S.
What campers like
Primitive camping with conveniences: Many campers appreciate Fireside Camp + Lodge for its balance of rustic setting with essential amenities. "The campsites are set up in a circle around the edge of a spacious field along the tree line. While they are relatively basic, they offer everything you need for a comfortable stay. We particularly enjoyed the open field, which allowed us to stargaze at night under the clear skies," notes Asher K.
Community gathering spaces: Several campgrounds feature shared common areas. "One standout feature is the creative use of an old barn, which has been transformed into a hangout space. Inside, you'll find comfortable couches, hang boards for climbing enthusiasts, a vintage fridge, and even a Pac-Man game for some retro fun," reports Asher K. about Fireside Camp + Lodge.
Well-spaced campsites: Campers frequently mention appreciating the privacy between sites. "I really appreciate that the sites aren't on top of each other. There is enough room for a small camper or flat gravel area for tents. Picnic tables and fire rings at each site," writes Shana D. about Foster Falls Campground.
Direct water access: Marion County Park offers waterfront camping. "We stopped here for a night and made reservations on the fly. We called at 6:30pm and were told there would be a list of available spots and a drop box for fees. We got in the spot pretty easily and woke up to the most gorgeous view over the water!" shares Nicole.
What you should know
Varying bathroom facilities: Quality of facilities differs significantly between campgrounds. "The bath houses were horrible. The one near us had one toilet and one shower with little curtains across them. The toilet was clean but no way would I use the shower," notes Alicia B. about Marion County Park. Always check recent reviews for current bathroom conditions.
Noise levels: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads or facilities. "There is a farm nearby with a rooster that spent the better part of the day crowing, which can be distracting when you have a toddler you are trying to get to sleep, and got very repetitive for the adults as well. We could also hear 18 wheelers both nights we were there during the night," reports Stephanie J.
Seasonal waterfall conditions: Water flow varies dramatically by season. "Waterfalls were weak but we knew this going in July but still great views. Our next trip here will be in the fall," notes Richard F. about Cloudland Canyon State Park.
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Going to be amazing. Gave it 4 stars because we had to move a couple of times. The electricity didn't work where we wound up camping but didn't want to move anymore," explains Arwen about Bigfoot Adventure RV park & Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for walk-in sites: For a quieter family experience, consider walk-in camping areas. "Love the tent-only serenity of the walk-in sites. There is a separate parking lot at the back of the park for the walk-in sites, which are a short distance away (easy to haul your gear). The sites have a tent pad, picnic table and fire ring, and lots of privacy as the sites are very far from each other," recommends Abby M. at Cloudland Canyon.
Check trail difficulty levels: Assess hiking trail difficulty before heading out with children. "My grandson and I spent 23-25 June camping at Father Adamz campground. The hike in is pretty steep in parts and very rocky. Definitely a good workout! The hiking trails are well maintained and the scenery is great," shares Jeff C. about Father Adamz Campground.
Consider swimming options: Many families appreciate natural swimming areas during warmer months. "My family and I stayed at father Adams over Easter and it was perfect. The weather was very nice and the sites are well maintained. It's also only about a half mile down to a swimming hole and water fall perfect for swimming in the summer," notes Aidan G.
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Some families prefer developed facilities. "The campground here is smaller, and less private than the west rim loop, offering 24 tent/RV sites that have 30A electrical hookup, gravel tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings, along with a bathhouse and playground," explains Stephanie J. about Cloudland Canyon.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling needs: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven terrain. "Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out," advises Richard F. about Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground.
Consider drive accessibility: Access roads can be challenging for larger RVs. "Trying to get into campground during afternoon hours maybe challenging to bigger RV units. Foster Falls parking does get full, can overflow towards campground even though it says registered campers. We had a pop up so we were able to pull thru at out site #9," explains Traci C.
Select campgrounds with appropriate hookups: Verify available utilities before booking. "We are in a 35' 5th Wheel. Most sites easy access, some sites maybe tight for bigger Rigs. Some sites have Full Hook-up, 50 amp. (Sewer not available on water sites.)," notes Becky S. about Fairview Campground.
Look for pull-through options: Some campers prefer easier access sites. "The spots are very spacious and very easily accessible," shares Robert M. about Marion County Park's pull-through spots.
