Tent camping near Eidson, Tennessee offers options at elevations between 1,200-1,800 feet where temperatures can range from 30°F in winter to 85°F in summer. The area sits between the Cumberland Mountains and Cherokee National Forest, creating diverse terrain for primitive and established campsites. Most camping areas remain open from March through October, with some sites offering year-round access.
What to do
Paddle sports on Douglas Lake: Lakeside Getaway on Douglas provides convenient access for kayaking and canoeing with "a dock with paddle sport launches" according to camper Richard T., who appreciates the "amazing views of the lake" from this camping area.
Hiking multiple connected trails: At Kingdom Come State Park Campground, campers can access numerous hiking paths within walking distance of tent sites. Visitor Paul H. notes there are "plenty of trails" while another camper explains "there are many short hikes that can be easily strung together to make for a longer trek if desired."
Fishing for stocked trout: Kingdom Come State Park offers "a small lake which is regularly stocked with Trout, Bass, Blue Gill, Sunfish, and a few others," according to Brian B., who adds "It's just a short walk from the campsites" making it easy to fish without driving elsewhere.
Soak in natural hot springs: Many tent campers visit Hot Springs, NC, about 45 miles from Eidson. Karen P. mentions the "Spa with hot spring hot tubs across the street" from camping areas, while Grant D. recommends you "can play on the French broad river and then take a soak in the hot mineral tubs!"
What campers like
Bear viewing opportunities: Hot Springs Campground and surrounding areas offer wildlife viewing from safe distances. At Kingdom Come, Jess B. reports "I saw more bears while at this park than any other time. But it was never scary because they were always far away."
Privacy and seclusion: Tent camping around Eidson appeals to those seeking quiet spaces. At Kingdom Come, Brian B. describes a campsite that's "off by itself and about 100 feet from the lake in a more secluded area." Paul H. adds, "I've camped there twice and only saw one other camper. It is very quiet and remote."
Water proximity: Several tent sites offer waterfront access. At Creek Ridge Camping, Mickey L. appreciated "staying 20 feet from the water on a holiday weekend," while Jennifer Z. described camping where "you could hear the rush of the water at night while sleeping."
Free firewood service: Unlike many camping areas that charge for wood, Kingdom Come provides complimentary firewood delivery. Brian B. explains, "Every day a ranger will come by and keep you stocked with wood. It's included with the price of camping."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Food storage precautions are mandatory at most tent sites. Kingdom Come provides "a pole for stashing your food away from bears" at each campsite. Jess B. emphasizes "we were really careful to keep our campsite very clean as to not attract the bears closer."
Limited water availability: Sunny Hills Farm Camp and several other tent camping areas lack potable water sources. Campers need to bring their own drinking water or plan for filtration from natural sources.
Steep access roads: Some campgrounds require navigating challenging mountain roads. Grant M. warns about Kingdom Come: "the road in from Cumberland is STEEP! We made it in a mini van pulling a scamp, so you'll probably be fine."
Reservation requirements: Most tent sites around Eidson require advance booking, especially during summer months. Richard T. appreciated Lakeside Getaway's "awesomely easy instant book feature" which simplified planning for a quick overnight stay.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly sites: Misfit Farmz Campground welcomes families new to tent camping. Owner Scott P. explains they "will help families with almost any request" and offer "deep discounts since we will be learning."
Swimming locations: For families seeking water activities, Laurel River offers accessible swimming holes. Jennifer Z. recommends "Laurel River was a great place to cool off and only a few minutes drive from the campsite. The watering holes were plenty and amazing."
Budget-friendly amenities: Kingdom Come provides tent sites with basic facilities at reasonable rates. As Brian B. notes, the campground has "7 sites each with its own picnic table, fire ring" plus complimentary firewood delivered daily by rangers.
Natural features exploration: Families enjoy exploring unique geological formations at Kingdom Come. Brian B. recommends the "natural rock bridge close to the campsites called Log Rock" and "Raven Rock trail which leads to a 450 foot 40 degree angle granite rock facing that you can climb to get an amazing view."
Tips from RVers
Sites with hybrid options: Camping with the Cows offers tent camping plus glamping accommodations with modern amenities for those who want comfort without a full RV. Facilities include showers and toilets while maintaining a rustic atmosphere.
Cell service considerations: Most tent camping areas near Eidson have limited connectivity. Wyman M. notes about Kingdom Come: "Great area, no service or wifi" - important for RVers who may need connectivity for work or emergencies.
Bathroom availability: When transitioning from RV to tent camping, bathroom access varies significantly. Hot Springs Campground tent sites have "restrooms that were dated but kept clean through the weekend" according to Tra C., who appreciated the maintained facilities despite their age.
