Camping spots near Crossville, Tennessee offer a mix of forest environments and water access at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet in the Cumberland Plateau region. The area's rocky terrain creates unique camping challenges with many sites requiring leveling equipment. Most campgrounds maintain operating seasons from April through October, though several remain open year-round with reduced winter services.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground connects directly to multiple trail systems offering varied difficulty levels. "The hiking trails within the park start right next to the campsites. The campground has clean water, plenty of hookups and is so incredibly quiet," notes Paige D.
Fishing opportunities: Bean Pot Campground provides dedicated fishing areas with catch-and-release policies. "There was a small camp store and a few basic amenities. The best amenity was a catch and release pond," explains Shannon B., highlighting the accessible fishing options available even for casual anglers.
Swimming options: Spacious Skies Belle Ridge features a unique swimming lake surrounded by rock formations. "The sandy playground (though it was older and the volleyball net was down), the fishing lake, and the really cool swimming lake, which was surrounded by rock, were all appreciated by our group," says Angela C.
What campers like
Quiet evening atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful environment at Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground, especially in the wooded sections. "Area 1 was especially nice and shaded. It was quiet, clean, and so easy to enjoy. The bonus surprise for us was that the Wi-Fi worked really well," reports Mary D.
Site spacing: Spring Lake RV Resort offers generously spaced sites around a small lake. "The sites are built around a small lake. I suspect most of the leases are long-term. A couple of miles off the interstate so no road noise and very quiet at night," shares Sara M., highlighting the resort's layout.
Waterfall access: Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground, located about 45 minutes from Crossville, draws campers with its multiple waterfall features. "Make sure you do three things while you're there: hike to the bottom of the big waterfall (Fall Creek Falls), swim in the cascades next to the nature center, and stand on the edge of the bluff at Buzzard's Roost," recommends Myke C.
What you should know
Campsite leveling challenges: Several campgrounds in the Crossville area have uneven terrain. At Davy Crockett Campground, "sites in my section were pretty steep as in on a big hill so us tenters get quite a workout going up to the bathhouse! Not to mention, was very difficult to fit two tents and vehicles at the site since the ONLY level spot was the gravel drive," explains Terri D.
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise from nearby I-40. "One advantage/disadvantage is it is located right off 40. If you are placed in one of the sites in the front it's going to be very noisy," notes Angela C. about Spacious Skies Belle Ridge.
Facility maintenance varies: Cumberland Mountain State Park receives mixed reviews regarding facility upkeep. "Many of the facilities could use a little love, the bathhouses are dated and in desperate need of renovation, and during our stay were void of any cleaning," reports Richard A.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Crossville / I-40 KOA offers dedicated play areas for children. "We had a blast at this KOA! The sites were clean and beautiful. Big bathhouse rooms. Kids loved the pool, basketball court, playground, and corn hole boards," shares Theresa W.
Wildlife viewing: Bean Pot Campground offers wildlife viewing opportunities that appeal to younger campers. "The farm next door had donkeys that visited," mentions Katie C., highlighting unexpected animal encounters that children often enjoy.
Beginner-friendly facilities: Fall Creek Falls State Park provides amenities that make camping more approachable for families new to outdoor experiences. "We love to camp at Fall Creek Falls State Park and think this would be a great park for novice campers due to the fact that the facilities are very nice. Modern bathhouses located in each camping area, swimming pool, golf course and restaurant make roughing it easier," suggests Sandra V.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When booking at Paradise on the Mountain RV Park, consider leveling needs. "Only poor thing I can say is that the spots are not level. But otherwise this place is a 9.5/10!" advises Sara E.
Hookup reliability: Cumberland Mountain State Park offers reliable utilities with varying loop options. "Full hookups are in Loop 1 or A and this loop is open year around. Sites give you a lot of room," notes Bob T., highlighting the spacious setup for larger rigs.
Off-season considerations: Spring Lake RV Resort maintains some facilities year-round but may have limited services. "Restrooms and showers were closed due to Covid-19 restrictions. We were told they were full but several sites remained empty during our stay," reports Chris H., showing the importance of confirming available amenities before arrival.
