Tent camping near Erin, Tennessee offers a range of primitive and backcountry experiences with many sites positioned near Kentucky Lake. The region sits at approximately 400 feet elevation with rolling hills that create secluded camping pockets throughout the area. Summer temperatures typically reach the 90s, while spring and fall offer milder conditions in the 60s-70s with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area offers direct water access for paddlers. "We fished, we hiked, we kayaked!" notes camper Brittni F., who appreciated the site's versatility for water activities.
Hiking opportunities: The backcountry trails at Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park Group Campground connect multiple primitive camping areas. "This is the BEST state park in West TN. It's quiet, depending on your camping neighbors, and just sitting on the banks watching the boats go by is peaceful," writes camper KO4FIE-Logan.
Fishing spots: Multiple shoreline access points make fishing convenient at primitive sites. At Linton Recreation Area, one visitor notes, "There is shoreline to walk and the beach is sanded. A nice area to have a get together."
What campers like
Affordability: Several tent sites in the region require no fees. At Chester Hollow Backcountry Shelter, campers appreciate the free access to lakefront sites. "The lakefront sites are really cool and the facilities are pretty decent! Bit of a steep hill to access some of the sites," notes Ryan M.
Privacy between sites: Gatlin Point Self-Service Campground offers well-spaced tent sites. One camper described it as "Beautiful, right by a little lake, super quiet and clean."
Campfire options: Not all primitive sites permit fires, so campers value those that do. At Red Rock Trail Backcountry Shelter, Shana D. reports, "Each site is along the River banks, so you get the best views! Fire pits and picnic tables included."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many sites require traversing difficult terrain. At Stewart State Forest, Douglas K. advises, "If you are looking for an out-of-the-main-drag area to go camping, try this place. The closest store is about 5 miles away near Tennessee Ridge."
Cell coverage: Most primitive sites lack reliable service. At Ginger Bay, one camper notes it's "very remote but as always, remote is totally worth it."
Water availability: Few sites offer potable water. At Stewart State Forest, a camper warns, "There is no water, so bring plenty. There is a spring, however you have to know where it is."
Restroom facilities: Toilet access varies considerably between sites. At Dyers Creek, one visitor noted, "There are reservable pavilions, a playground and volleyball court and plenty of lake front to fish on."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Dyers Creek offers recreation facilities alongside primitive camping. As Shelly S. describes, "Dyers Creek Boat Ramp and Day Use Area was very quiet and secluded. There are reservable pavilions, a playground and volleyball court."
Swimming options: Several sites offer beach access for children. At Linton Recreation Area, Evelyn R. notes, "My family and I came here in the summer and enjoyed the warm weather, great hikes and family time."
Site spacing: Consider how close neighboring campers will be. At Linton, Analia F. cautions, "The one downside I would say about this campground was how close each spot was to each other. Kind of felt like we were sharing a spot with our neighbors."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle requirements: Several primitive tent areas near Erin present challenges for larger vehicles. At Ginger Bay, Juli G. warns, "This is a car camping site however you will need a four-wheel drive vehicle to get down the steep gravel road to the dispersed camping area."
Camping pad surfaces: Many sites feature alternative camping platforms. Chester Hollow camper Ryan M. explains some sites "are built on wooden decks."
Road navigation: Check road conditions before attempting access. At Ginger Bay, Jessica M. cautions, "Very peaceful and gorgeous view with boat ramp. The drive in is pretty rough even with us being in a jeep though."
