Montgomery Bell State Park serves as the primary camping destination near Burns, Tennessee, with additional options available within a 40-mile radius. The region features rolling hills with elevations between 450-650 feet and mixed hardwood forests typical of Middle Tennessee. Summer temperatures often reach 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions between 50-75°F with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking historic trails: Montgomery Bell State Park features hiking opportunities connecting directly to camping areas. "We visited here with a church group because it is the founding place of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. It is beautiful, peaceful and serene," notes Alicia B. about Montgomery Bell State Park.
River activities: The Piney River offers excellent water recreation options. "Kayaking the piney river is a must. They are working on adding amenities, playground, etc," says dawn C. about Piney River Resort. The clear water is popular for swimming during summer months.
Barge watching: Sites along the Cumberland River provide unique entertainment. "It's pretty cool watching the big barges move up and down the river during the day, but at night it's a little loud," reports Guy M. at Lock A Campground. Some sites offer direct views of commercial river traffic.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Water access remains a top draw for many campers. "We really enjoyed our spot by the creek. Children can wade in the creek all day, why parents enjoy sitting outside under all the shade trees," explains Tammy P. about Lock A.
Spacious sites: Some campgrounds offer more room between sites than others. "The campground has tons of activities and good hiking trails. If you want some good catfish. Go visit the catfish kitchen just down the road from the park," adds Tammy P. about Montgomery Bell State Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities receive consistent praise. "The facilities were maintained and the staff was extremely helpful," notes Lexi S. about the tent camping area at Montgomery Bell State Park, though she mentions these sites are "not quiet as secluded and quiet as we would have liked."
What you should know
Reservation planning: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Make your reservations early!! Beautiful area lakes, groomed trails, nice hosts," advises Andrea R. about Montgomery Bell State Park, mentioning that showers were the "only reason for the missed star in rating."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. "The drive in from the highway was very scary on narrow, windy roads with dropoffs on the side," warns Pat&Amanda D. about Piney River RV Resort, adding they took "the staff recommended route in and Co-Pilot's route out and both were scary in our Class A towing a car hauler."
Campground noise: Traffic noise affects some camping areas. "We pitched our tent on comfortable ground and were serenaded by the sounds of trucks coming down the bridge overhead with their jakes on at night. Bring earplugs if you are in a tent," suggests Lauriena R. about Harpeth River Bridge Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "With a great pavilion, Vb court, ball diamond, and playground, the far side of the camp is perfect for families, groups, and events," notes Stæven F. about Montgomery Bell State Park, recommending sites 1-8 with "#1+2 right next to the creek and the most updated bathrooms."
Water recreation: Rivers and creeks provide natural entertainment for children. "We took our 3 young kids during monsoon season and the staff where amazing and getting the kids out and into nature!" shares Amy P. about Montgomery Bell State Park Campground.
Historic sites: Educational opportunities abound for families. "Great family friendly park with lots of hiking and historical sites. There is a beautiful waterfall and an adorable old church," mentions Faith S. about Montgomery Bell State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites vary significantly in levelness and accessibility. "The site I had was a little awkward backing into and the water hookup was on the wrong side for my camper," notes Nathan R. about Montgomery Bell State Park, despite giving the facilities a 5-star rating.
Hookup considerations: Full-service sites are available at select campgrounds. "We were just a little bit off of the river in site 36. The electricity was 50/30 and the power pole looked new. The site was within a quarter inch of level and was a concrete pad," shares Guy M. about Lock A campground.
Size restrictions: Some of the best places to camp near Burns, Tennessee have limitations for larger rigs. "We had a site up on hill farther from the river (which was lovely) but we couldn't get level and couldn't put our slides out," warns Pat&Amanda D., recommending Piney River Resort for "smaller RVs" only.
