Best Tent Camping near Dayton, TN

Looking for the best tent campgrounds near Dayton? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Dayton. Would you prefer a quiet dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities? Either way, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Dayton, TN (59)

    Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Snow — Cumberland Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Snow — Cumberland Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from Laurel Snow — Cumberland Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from Foster Falls Campground — South Cumberland State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Foster Falls Campground — South Cumberland State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Foster Falls Campground — South Cumberland State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Foster Falls Campground — South Cumberland State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Foster Falls Campground — South Cumberland State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Foster Falls Campground — South Cumberland State Park

    2. Foster Falls Campground — South Cumberland State Park

    31 Reviews
    126 Photos
    284 Saves
    Tracy City, Tennessee

    FOSTER FALLS CAMPGROUND - Open to Vehicles - Reservations Required The Foster Falls campground has 26 rustic campsites ideal for tents or small trailers. The Foster Falls Campground is the only camping area in the park where guests may park a car and/or pop-ups next to the campsite. The campground is open year-round. All sites have a fire ring and a picnic table. Most sites are wooded, offering some shade and have a level, gravel surface. A few are on a slight incline. There are no water or electric hook-ups but a restroom and heated showers are available. No gas generators are allowed at the Foster Falls Campground. BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING - Reservations Required South Cumberland boasts over 90 miles of backpacking trails with 93 campsites, eight group sites and one rustic lodge, the Hobbs Cabin. These campsites are located within 12 designated back country campgrounds across the Fiery Gizzard and Savage Gulf trail systems. South Cumberland encourages visitors to reserve your campsite early to ensure you have a site upon arrival. Remember, follow all park rules and be prepared to have a rewarding backcountry experience. All campsites are limited to four adults and two children. Children are defined as ages 13 and younger. Site capacity information can be found under site features on the campsite reservation page. Please look closely at your campsite's capacity when reserving. Each site has a designated fire ring. Hiking is required to reach the sites, although a few sites are available at only 120 yards from the parking lot. Water must be filtered from natural sources or carried in, be sure to check with the ranger stations about water availability. A pit toilet is also available at each campground. South Cumberland has primitive group campsites at most Savage Gulf campgrounds. These sites can accommodate from 30-60 campers, depending on the site and location.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $18 - $21 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Savage Falls Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Savage Falls Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Savage Falls Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Savage Falls Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Savage Falls Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Savage Falls Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Black Willow Farm
      Camper-submitted photo from Black Willow Farm
      Camper-submitted photo from Black Willow Farm
      Camper-submitted photo from Black Willow Farm
      Camper-submitted photo from Black Willow Farm
      Camper-submitted photo from Black Willow Farm

      5. Black Willow Farm

      1 Review
      24 Photos
      4 Saves
      Pikeville, Tennessee

      Experience true off-grid living in our Mennonite-built cabin nestled in the heart of 81 acres of secluded meadows and pasture. This rustic retreat is the perfect getaway for those looking to fully unplug and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

      Our cozy cabin offers a unique blend of country charm and modern convenience. While there is no electricity, we have propane lights inside and solar lights outdoors. We do have running water, although there is no water heater yet. The interior is tastefully decorated with a comfortable queen-sized bed and two twin beds in a shared room upstairs. A futon is available in the family area for additional sleepers and full size kitchen for preparing simple meals. Best of all, there is no WiFi and little cell phone service, giving you the chance to truly disconnect and relax. With a fire pit outside, you can enjoy cozy evenings under the stars, roasting marshmallows and making memories that will last a lifetime.

      Additionally, for those who prefer to sleep under the stars, we offer two campsites in an old cattle field at the crest of the hill. Each site is equipped with a fire pit and cooking grate, and a porta potty is conveniently located nearby. Parking is available adjacent to the sites, and it's just a short walk across the field. These are primitive so no water is available on site.

      Now true highlight of our property are the four picturesque ponds and natural lake with a beaver dam and small waterfall. Grab a fishing pole and take to the waters, or simply relax and soak in the stunning surroundings. And with an abundance of wildlife, you're sure to spot everything from deer and wild turkey to osprey and blue heron during your stay.

      Beyond our property, you'll find endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Although only a mile as the crow flys, the cabin is a 20-minute drive to Fall Creek Falls, Tennessee's largest state park, boasting over 26,000 acres of hiking, waterfalls, streams, cascades, and gorges. And with Cumberland Mountain State Park, Catoosa Wildlife Management Area, South Cumberland State Park, and Chattanooga all within an hour's drive or so, there's no shortage of hiking, dining, and activities to enjoy. The Mennonite community is a short drive away where you'll find local produce, plants, and all sorts of handmade goods.

      Experience the simpler life and reconnect with nature at our off-grid retreat. We invite you to unplug, unwind, and recharge in the peaceful embrace of nature.

      Feel free, relax and enjoy.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Cabins
      • Trash

      $50 - $100 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
      Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
      Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
      Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
      Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF
      Camper-submitted photo from Lost Creek - Cherokee NF

      6. Lost Creek - Cherokee NF

      9 Reviews
      18 Photos
      274 Saves
      Reliance, Tennessee

      Lost Creek Campground is located along the banks of Big Lost Creek. This primitive campground offers remote camping and is surrounded by dense forest and creeks. Lost Creek Campground is open year round. Sites are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. While staying at Lost Creek, campers can enjoy fishing in Big Lost Creek (note: special regulations are in effect for fishing in Big Lost Creek).

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Trash
      • Picnic Table
      Camper-submitted photo from Stone Door Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Stone Door Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Stone Door Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Stone Door Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Stone Door Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Stone Door Campground — Savage Gulf State Park

      7. Stone Door Campground — Savage Gulf State Park

      6 Reviews
      38 Photos
      80 Saves
      Beersheba Springs, Tennessee

      South Cumberland State Park is located within four different Tennessee counties: Grundy, Franklin, Marion and Sequatchie. The park is composed of approximately 30,845 acres in nine separate areas and boasts some of the best hiking and backcountry camping in the region.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Group

      $8 - $35 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Alum Gap Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Alum Gap Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Alum Gap Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Alum Gap Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Alum Gap Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Alum Gap Campground — Savage Gulf State Park

      8. Alum Gap Campground — Savage Gulf State Park

      7 Reviews
      41 Photos
      61 Saves
      Beersheba Springs, Tennessee

      South Cumberland State Park is a state park in the middle and southeast portions of Tennessee on the Cumberland Plateau. The park is one of Tennessee's newer state parks. It is a collection of 10 areas in four counties.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Standard (Tent/RV)

      $8 - $12 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River
      Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River
      Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River
      Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River
      Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River
      Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River

      9. Rock Creek Campground — Obed Wild and Scenic River

      12 Reviews
      70 Photos
      88 Saves
      Lancing, Tennessee

      Overview

      Rock Creek Campground is located near the Emory River in the Obed Wild and Scenic River.

      Recreation

      Whitewater paddling is available seasonally in the Obed WSR. Rock climbing is another challenging activity, as is boulder climbing. The Obed WSR sports several unique trails for hikers, most notably the Point Trail and a portion of the Cumberland Trail. Those who like to fish will enjoy the Obed WSR, as a variety of bass, bluegill, catfish and other fish populate the river. Birdwatching is also a fun activity, particularly during the migratory seasons.

      Natural Features

      The Obed River winds through the Cumberland Plateau offering a variety of recreational activities for everyone.

      Nearby Attractions

      Just a few miles from the park is Frozen Head State Park which encompasses more than 24,000 acres of forest with mountainous terrain at an elevation from 1,340 feet to over 3,000 feet. Catoosa Wildlife Management Area is an 82,000 acre preserve with a focus on hunting and fishing but offering a wealth of other recreational activities as well. Lone Mountain State Forest is 3,600 acres and has 15 miles of trails for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Group

      $15 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Big Frog Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Big Frog Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Big Frog Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Big Frog Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Big Frog Area

      10. Big Frog Area

      5 Reviews
      5 Photos
      14 Saves
      Ocoee, Tennessee

      View of Big Frog Mountain Area of Cherokee National Forest This area is known for solitude and backcountry adventure, with Big Frog Wilderness being a destination for backpacking, day-hiking and hunting. The area offers about 35 miles of backcountry trails, some of which climb to over 4,000 feet. In addition to the backcountry hiking opportunities, the area is also managed as a Black Bear reserve. Try snorkeling at Conasauga River, renowned for remarkable fish viewing. Pitch a tent at Tumbling Creek or Sylco Campgrounds. Big Frog Area Map Big Frog Area Guide

      • Tents
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    Showing results 1-10 of 59 campgrounds

    Recent Tent Reviews in Dayton

    993 Reviews of 59 Dayton Campgrounds


    • Katrin M.
      Camper-submitted photo from Rock Island State Park Campground
      Oct. 31, 2024

      Rock Island State Park Campground

      Beautiful part of Tennessee

      We camped here over the weekend. Our campsite was perfect. Very private and enough space for 2 tents. Not all campsites are made for tents, some have just a concrete driveway. We had the usual amenities, like a picnic table with a bench, fire pit, and a lantern pole. The bathhouse was clean and well stocked. Rock Island offers a lot hiking trails and stunning waterfalls. There is a little coffee/icecream shop just outside the park, which was awesome. We would camp here anytime again.

    • Donny A.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Howland's Hidout
      Oct. 15, 2024

      Howland's Hidout

      Nice backyard camping

      Easy to find, close to Fall Creek Falls, Power available, quiet spot except for the coyotes in the woods. Confused Roosters will wake you up at various times. Ear plugs help with the Roosters and coyotes. It's not a campground so don't expect a shower house or bathrooms. I would stay there again. Owner is an exceptional host.

    • Cindy S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground
      Sep. 19, 2024

      Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground

      Beautiful campground and beautiful scenic drive

      We arrived and we got to pick out our own campsite. Thanks to the friendly and helpful staff. Bathrooms were clean and the showers were warm water beautiful tall trees provided shade. Scenic Drive was stunning.

    • V
      Camper-submitted photo from Fooshee Pass Campground
      Sep. 13, 2024

      Fooshee Pass Campground

      Beautiful and well maintained!

      Ample space, gorgeous views of the lake, and super friendly staff. We stayed in space 19. It is sized for a smaller rig which was perfect for us. We got to watch fish jump and a crane fishing in the morning. Only caught small fish, but the kids had a blast swimming. The lake is shallow with a slow grade which was perfect for our young children. Everyone was friendly and respectful. The bathrooms were clean and it was a nice bonus to have a no-charge shower available for tent camping.

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Greeter Falls Campground
      Sep. 12, 2024

      Greeter Falls Campground

      Peaceful forest

      Excellent instructions, easy to find my site. Trees so can add my tarp for possible rain. Restful sleep. Parked by my deluxe primitive site. It comes with hot shower and flush toilet. Porta potties close by lit with fairy lights at night. I was impressed as they were clean. Self check in. I saw a deer on the way to the bathroom. Appreciate the trash cans, water and electricity. Close to gas, food. I went to Coalmont. The Mexican food was authentic. Amazing.

    • Mary D.
      Camper-submitted photo from Hornsby Hollow Campground
      Sep. 2, 2024

      Hornsby Hollow Campground

      Beautiful Sites!

      The campground was one of the most scenic I've been to. Some of the lakefront spots had their own access to the lake and plenty of trees. The camp host was amazing!

    • Sarah H.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Lake Conasauga Overflow Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest
      Aug. 24, 2024

      Lake Conasauga Overflow Campground — Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest

      Long drive down gravel roads

      It took us about 1.5 hours to reach the campground from where the pavement ended. It gets rough in places, but a sedan can do it if it's dry. Once you finally reach the campground, it is nice. Nestled way back in the woods. No power or water hookups. A couple of water hydrates throughout the campground. No alcohol permitted. It is a wildlife management area. There is a host in the campground. Beautiful scenery!

    • m
      Camper-submitted photo from The Crosseyed Cricket
      Aug. 17, 2024

      The Crosseyed Cricket

      I like it

      I prefer playing cricket for physical exercise rather than virtual games like Nulls Brawl. It's a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, especially in beautiful locations like The Crosseyed Cricket Campground in Tennessee.

    • TThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Hammock Sway
      Jul. 3, 2024

      Hammock Sway

      Good camping- hard to find spot

      Good, discreet and comfortable spot.

      Arrived at night and there was not a chance I was going to discover the reserved spot for camping. Only found it because another camper, who seemed to be familiar with area, assisted me. If sections or spots are named after the name reserved online, you wouldn't know this arriving as there is only red reflectors. Overall, good spot just was frustrating at first.

    • Molly B.
      Camper-submitted photo from Parksville Lake RV Campground
      Jun. 30, 2024

      Parksville Lake RV Campground

      Beautiful and quiet

      This quiet little camp site is in the heart of the cherokee Forest. It’s so beautiful. Each site is a good distance away from the other and there is the constant sound of the creek flowing right next to it. The bathrooms are clean and right in the middle a perfect spot for a getaway

    • K
      Camper-submitted photo from Lotterdale Cove Campground
      Jun. 23, 2024

      Lotterdale Cove Campground

      Camping

      Very nice and beautiful quiet place Beautiful lake. And sunsets too and pet are welcome Just a little bit of heaven ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

    • Tammie P.
      Camper-submitted photo from Bean Pot Campground
      Jun. 14, 2024

      Bean Pot Campground

      Awesome!

      We've been traveling full time for the past year and Bean Pot campground is by far the best. Beautiful sites, great owners and staff and alot of amenities. They also have fun activities. Definitely will be back!

    • BThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Thunder Rock Campground
      Jun. 13, 2024

      Thunder Rock Campground

      Awesome campground

      I always have a great time staying at this campground and meeting many friendly people. The road noise is not as bad as some people say. I mostly hear only the river running. The shower house is always clean, and for $15, it is a great deal. Make reservations on line as it fills up on the weekends.

    • M
      Camper-submitted photo from Chilhowee Recreation Area
      Jun. 12, 2024

      Chilhowee Recreation Area

      It's a nice campground, but...

      We stayed on site 15 of the B loop. It was a great location, but in the center of the site once stood a large tree with a timber surround. The tree has been cut down, but the surround is still there, and we kept tripping over it. Otherwise, it's close to the bathhouse, and the water spigot is right across the street. As someone who uses a camper, here's what you need to know. Coming up the mountain has some steep grades and a few switch backs that you can't see around. There are often oncoming vehicles who are often driving to fast and not considering those of us in large vehicles. We had a couple of course calls even without the camper in tow. The roads in the campground are narrow and again, some of the turns are sharp when pulling a trailer. There is only one dump station and it's on the other side of the campground. From the B loop, you have to traverse about a 120 degree switchback to get to it. My friend who was there pulling a 5th wheel decided not to try it and opted to pay to dump somewhere else. I pull a 25ft travel trailer and had no problem, although it felt sketchy going into it. Once there, it was probably the best dump station I've ever used. The water pressure almost blew a connection to my tank flush, but I'm sure the tank is clean now! As I eluded to before, there are no water hookups at the sites, only power (30A). You'll need to fill your fresh water tanks before you set up. Cell/ internet; in the B loop there is NO AT&T in spite of what this site says. You may get a weak signal on the other side, but it's spotty at best. There appeared to be a Verizon tower on the mountain, so that will probably work. It is a pet friendly campground, but personally, I don't find that friendly. I don't like walking up to someone dog barking at the person getting their 6 am morning walk and then the owner yelling at the dog to be quiet.

    • Shining Souls (Trust) | B.
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Reggae Getaway
      May. 18, 2024

      Camp Reggae Getaway

      Shining Souls (Trust) | Best NGO in India

      Shining Souls(Trust)| Best NGO in India

      Shining Souls(Trust) proudly stands as the best NGO in India, a nationally acclaimed Non-Profit Non-Governmental Organization(NGO) officially registered under the India Trust Act, 1982, with its headquarters situated in the vibrant city of New Delhi. Our transformative journey began in 2018, propelled by a singular vision to usher in holistic rural development and empower underprivileged communities. Our dedicated team, comprised of educationalists, social activists, and youth visionaries, has united with a shared purpose to create positive societal change.

      Address: 312, 3rd Floor, Veer Savarkar Block Vikas Marg, Shakarpur, Delhi-110092 Phone Number:+917562020200

    • IThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Hobbs Cabin Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
      May. 6, 2024

      Hobbs Cabin Campground — Savage Gulf State Park

      Great stopover on the north rim

      While camping right on a ledge would be neat, Hobbs is a great stopover. Keeps you dry if it’s pouring, but luckily the weather cleared for us for the night. We didn’t utilize the spring that is allegedly there. There are plenty of large and small sites, and it is not as trafficked as some of the other campgrounds in the park.

    • IThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Alum Gap Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
      May. 6, 2024

      Alum Gap Campground — Savage Gulf State Park

      Get here early to claim a spot with a view!

      Plenty of spacious campsites, an easy hike (almost too short!) from the visitor center. Rustic, dispersed, but close enough to other people so you don’t feel absolutely stranded!

    • IThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Conasauga River Campground
      May. 6, 2024

      Conasauga River Campground

      Conasauga River Trail & Panther Creek Intersection

      This review is about the Conasauga River Trail intersection with Panther Creek. There is only one campsite at the intersection. It has a great fire pit and is flat, spacious, and next to the river. Definitely ideal. If it’s taken, there may be some other sites further down the trail. My loop started at Betty’s gap and then down the Conasauga River Trail. 5 miles is fine - BUT bring shoes that will get wet, water shoes if possible. You have the cross the river like 30 times in 5 miles. There are also many fallen trees, so be prepared. The next day I headed up towards panther creek. NEVER trust yourself. As of May 2024: As you go UP the canyon, there are green blazers on the trees. Follow these (about 1 mile ip, the wagon road will curve left and many people have gone down it. STAY RIGHT.) When you reach the top of the falls, the land is flat and wide, and it will be hard to find the trail. Follow any path here, and you will find that the trail is down about 7 minutes, towards the LEFT and the trees had orange tape around them. The trees then are marked with white blazers. Follow this trail up and you hit East Cowpen. I used this to loop back to my car which was at Betty’s Gap on Three Forks Road (FS 64). Not for the faint of heart. Much easier to do a long hard arduous day trip than to backpack over all the fallen trees! Be prepared for dense foliage after April. Certainly easier in the fall/winter!

    • A
      Camper-submitted photo from Spacious Skies Belle Ridge
      May. 2, 2024

      Spacious Skies Belle Ridge

      Tennessee Mountain Gem

      I seek off the beaten path places, and this campground is a gem. Located in a quiet forest near the small mountain town of Monterey, Belle Ridge is a wonderful destination stop when touring the Upper Cumberland regions of Tennessee. Within ten minutes of Monterey, this mountain town has two wonderful coffee places, an amazing Amish bakery, nice specialty stores in the historic downtown, good restaurants and a wonderful museum. There was a lot to do at the campground, but also many interesting sights within a 30-minute drive.


    Drive Time


    Guide to Dayton

    Tent camping near Dayton, Tennessee offers a variety of scenic spots for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature. With options ranging from public parks to private farms, there's something for everyone.

    Tent campers should check out Laurel Snow — Cumberland Trail

    • This site features hike-in access and allows pets, making it a great choice for adventurous campers.
    • Enjoy the beauty of nature while camping near a waterfall, as noted by visitors who appreciate the unique locations of the campsites.
    • Be prepared for some challenging trails; bringing an offline map is recommended for easier navigation.

    Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $20

    Tent campers like these nearby activities

    • Hiking enthusiasts will love the trails at Savage Station, conveniently located near the Savage Falls hike.
    • The Eads Bluff Overlook offers stunning views and is perfect for those looking to relax and take in the scenery.
    • For a more adventurous outing, consider visiting Outland Expeditions Ocoee River, where you can enjoy river activities alongside your camping experience.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Dayton, TN?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Dayton, TN is Laurel Snow — Cumberland Trail with a 4-star rating from 3 reviews.

    • What is the best site to find tent camping near Dayton, TN?

      TheDyrt.com has all 59 tent camping locations near Dayton, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.