Tent camping near Dickson, Tennessee concentrates primarily on primitive and backcountry sites within state forests and parks. The region sits at elevations between 500-900 feet with warm, humid summers and mild winters that allow year-round camping opportunities. Winter lows rarely drop below 30°F, making cold-weather tent camping viable with proper gear.
What to do
Fishing access: Stewart State Forest offers multiple fishing spots along its various waterways. "There is a spring, however you have to know where it is," notes camper Douglas K., who indicates the area works well "in all seasons" for outdoor activities.
Trail running: Long Hunter State Park Campground provides excellent running trails alongside camping opportunities. A camper mentions "there are great places to run and hike" and that the park is "large and a bit confusing but once we found the spots we wanted it was fun."
Farmland exploration: The agricultural landscapes near Bells Bend Park offer unique scenery for campers seeking rural exploration. One reviewer notes "the park offers a lot of programs to base your camping around. The trails are through farmland and bike friendly."
Wildlife viewing: Turkey and deer sightings are common throughout the region's camping areas. At Long Hunter State Park, one camper observed "so many deer and turkeys I finally quit taking pics of them" along with "a monster snapping turtle."
What campers like
Secluded riverside settings: Red Rock Trail Backcountry Shelter provides waterfront camping with basic amenities. "Each site is along the River banks, so you get the best views! Fire pits and picnic tables included," writes camper Shana D.
Accessibility to Nashville: Several campsites offer wilderness experiences within short driving distance of urban amenities. At Whooping Crane Farm, a camper notes it's "12 minutes from downtown Nashville, making it a perfect Glamping location. Being close to great restaurants is definitely a plus."
Swimming opportunities: Natural water features provide cooling options during hot summer months. At Long Hunter State Park, one camper describes "a great swimming spot with flat rocks to hang out on," though warns about ticks being "worst around the fire pit."
Stargazing: Clear night skies away from city lights create excellent stargazing conditions. A Bells Bend camper simply states: "the sky is immense," highlighting the unobstructed celestial views available at these primitive sites.
What you should know
Bug protection essential: Tick presence varies by location and season. One Long Hunter camper warns: "It was the most ticks any of us had seen, including tiny seed ticks. We left with multiple bites... I would bring LOTS of DEET bug spray."
Water availability varies: Most primitive sites require bringing your own water. At Bells Bend Park, a camper notes "Portapotty in the parking lot or hike to the outdoor center for flushing toilets and running water. Great for tent or hammock camping."
Reservation requirements: Specific booking procedures vary by location. For Bells Bend, "Call the outdoor center for availability. Campground is open year round... $10.00 a night per site for Davidson Co. residents, $11.00 a night per site for out of County residents."
Hunting awareness: Several camping areas permit hunting during season. A Stewart State Forest camper advises: "Please be aware that hunting is allowed in this area, so deer and turkey seasons could present issues for those who are looking for peace and quiet."
Tips for camping with families
Practice trips: Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park Group Campground offers good introductory backpacking for kids. One camper describes the park as "quiet, depending on your camping neighbors, and just sitting on the banks watching the boats go by is peaceful."
Distance considerations: When planning with children, account for hiking distances to primitive sites. One Girl Scout leader at Long Hunter notes "Even though 6 miles is quite the hike for a young Girl Scout Troop just to reach our Campsite it was beyond worth it!"
Beginner-friendly trails: Some areas provide easier trails for developing backpacking skills. One camper describes Long Hunter's primitive sites as "excellent practice run on your primitive skills. Pack distribution and what you need, no major climbs."
Program scheduling: Check park calendars for youth-oriented activities. A Bells Bend camper mentions "The park offers a lot of programs to base your camping around," making it easier to plan structured activities for families.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most tent camping areas near Dickson have poor access for recreational vehicles. Stewart State Forest has "no offices, no campground and no facilities. But there are plenty of gravel, dirt and grass roads," notes a visitor who cautions about locked gates and challenging navigation.
Terrain challenges: Access roads to primitive camping areas often present difficulties for larger vehicles. A camper warns about Stewart State Forest: "The map I had was of no use whatsoever! I drove for miles on single lane, saw lots of side roads and nice views and ended up at locked gate. But it was fun driving all the way back to the beginning."
Fuel planning: Facilities and services are limited around primitive tent camping areas. For Stewart State Forest, a camper advises: "The closest store is about 5 miles away near Tennessee Ridge... make sure your gas tank is full."
