Dunlap sits in the Sequatchie Valley at an elevation of around 800 feet, bordered by the Cumberland Plateau and Walden's Ridge. The area experiences mild winters with occasional snow and humid summers that often reach into the 90s. Most campgrounds near Dunlap remain open year-round, though primitive sites in Savage Gulf State Park close during winter months when overnight temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 4 miles round-trip to the bottom of Fall Creek Falls at Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground. "One of the best hiking parks I've ever been to. Miles and miles of trails; short, long, loops, overnights. This place has it all. 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," notes Myke C.
Rock climbing: Half-day excursions at the sandstone cliffs near Foster Falls Campground. "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," states Kelly M. The climbing routes range from beginner to advanced with most concentrated in the 5.8-5.11 difficulty range.
Backcountry exploring: 1-2 night trips through the network of trails at Prentice Cooper State Forest. "Prentice Cooper WMA is a great place if you're looking to be in the wilderness. Keep in mind, this is a wildlife management area, so If you are not hunting, might want to avoid it during hunting season," advises Lori H. The forest contains over 35 miles of hiking trails with several loop options for overnight backpacking.
What campers like
Cave exploration: 45-60 minute tours available at Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground. "We all loved that Crystal Cave was right on site and enjoyed the guided tour. (Advanced reservations are required.) We also loved the guided tour just down the road at Ruby Falls!" shares Jen O. Tours run daily throughout summer with reduced schedules in winter.
Quiet lakefront sites: First-come basis at Chester Frost Park's waterfront loop. "We were at Chester Frost for July 4th. Love staying on the lake front and watching the sun set," says Doug H. The campground offers 30 waterfront sites that fill quickly during summer weekends.
Secluded primitive camping: Reservation required at Hammock Sway for off-grid experiences. "Our dogs had a blast, we were able to filter creek water to drink (Berkey), we had plenty of space/privacy, and the eggs were fresh and perfect with breakfast. Truly the perfect spot for off-grid campers," reports Kayla N. Sites have no amenities but provide complete privacy on 40 acres.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect access: Many forest roads close December through March. "This is a beautiful WMA area with tons of offshoots along a service road for camping, but please note, 99% of areas are closed between December and March," warns Raymond H. about Prentice Cooper State Forest.
Campsite selection matters: Research specific site numbers before booking at Fall Creek Falls. "Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out. We are definitely going back in summer to get wet in the falls and creeks. Can't swim in lake but you can kayak," advises Richard F.
Limited water sources for backcountry: Bring filtration equipment for overnight hikes. "You gotta be super fit to get to this place but once you do, it's AMAZING. I did notice bear scat on my hike in and that was a bit of a concern but once everyone settled in at night, it was great. There are NO facilities so be prepared for that," explains Scott G. about Savage Falls Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Easy tent sites: Camp loop A at Fall Creek Falls offers family-friendly setup. "A Great Place for New Campers! 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.
Swimming options: Multiple locations available within short drives. "The park itself has a scenic loop drive of the gorge, multiple waterfalls to visit, miles on end of hiking trails in which some cross rope bridges, awesome swimming holes, and even an olympic pool with diving boards and a snack shack for the kiddos," describes Brandie D.
Kid-friendly amenities: Playgrounds and open spaces at Harrison Bay State Park Campground. "Kids loved camping here deer will come up to your camp just keep and eye on your food coolers raccoons will get the," warns Constance about the wildlife that interests children.
Tips for RVers
Best dog-friendly RV loops: Campground B and C provide more shade for pets at Harrison Bay. "Harrison Bay is a huge park, with four camping loops (3 for RVs, 1 for tents), and a large marina, located on the Chickamauga Reservoir of the Tennessee River. Loop B is an RV loop with more shade on the sites on the northern end and more sun on the southern," explains Stephanie J.
Level site selection: Request sites 7-14 in loop A for most shade. "Spacious sites in D. AC bath houses!" recommends Es T. about Harrison Bay State Park, where most RV sites are otherwise in full sun.
Winter camping considerations: Limited hookups but fewer crowds. "Wonderful camping spot. Definitely would recommend to a friend," says Michael C. about Harrison Bay, which stays open year-round with electric hookups and water that remains available through winter.
Scout
