Camping options near Estill Springs, Tennessee include sites around Tims Ford Lake, which spans over 10,000 acres with 265 miles of shoreline at an elevation of about 895 feet. The region features limestone bedrock that creates unique water features and caves throughout the area. Most campgrounds remain open year-round with summer highs averaging 88°F and winter lows around 28°F.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Equestrian camping near Estill Springs offers varied terrain for horseback enthusiasts beyond what Ray of Hope provides. At River Road RV Park & Horse Camp, riders can easily access Duck River just 5 minutes away. According to Christie B., "Duck River is just 5 minutes away, and Henry Horton State Park is close by—great for fishing, hiking, or kayaking."
Waterfront recreation: Several campgrounds offer direct lake access for swimming, fishing, and boating. At Fairview Campground on Tims Ford Lake, visitors can enjoy multiple water activities. Clinton N. notes, "Great campground on the water and spacious sites. Water access at your campsite to swim or kayak." Becky S. adds that it's "Great for kayaking and fishing. Family friendly."
Primitive hiking experiences: For those seeking a more rugged experience away from equestrian trails, Walls of Jericho offers backcountry camping with stunning natural formations approximately 22 miles from Estill Springs. Asher K. describes it as "an incredible site to see if you are willing to make the backpacking adventure to them. The hike in takes only about an hour and is all downhill."
What campers like
Peaceful environment: Many campers appreciate the quiet atmosphere in the region's campgrounds. At Henry Horton State Park, RL shares, "For several months while living in TN, we spent almost every weekend at Henry Horton State Park. It's not quite an hour from Nashville. We always got a primitive site, shady site. I was never disappointed by any of our sites and never felt cramped."
Helpful staff: Campers consistently mention friendly service at campgrounds around Estill Springs. At Fairview Campground, Tim M. reports, "The staff was awesome. They came by and treated us, offered to help us get backed in. Brought firewood and just came by to say hi."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained grounds and facilities are frequently mentioned in reviews. At Henry Horton State Park, Laur H. notes, "Check-in was a breeze, setup was simple with a level site, and everyone there, from the park rangers to the camp store staff to the campground hosts, was friendly and helpful. Clean bath houses."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds offer varied site types with different levels of privacy and amenities. At Fairview Campground, Becky S. advises, "Most sites easy access, some sites maybe tight for bigger Rigs. Some sites have Full Hook-up, 50 amp. (Sewer not available on water sites.)"
Seasonal considerations: While many campgrounds are open year-round, experiences vary by season. Joe N. shared about Henry Horton State Park: "Great December sleep in go as we headed south. Clean campground and beautiful scenery...will return outside winter season."
Cell service limitations: Some campgrounds have spotty connectivity. At River Road RV Park & Horse Camp, Danna D. reports, "No service for TMobile and almost none for Verizon (was told at&t works, but I can't verify)."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: For families wanting to try backpacking without committing to a difficult hike, Amanda C. recommends Henry Horton State Park: "The backcountry campsites are just a short trek from the camp store, the hike itself follows the river. We only saw one other couple and no one else was staying at the second site so it was such a secluded weekend!"
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer specific activities for children. At Campers RV Park, Jessica L. notes, "There is a playground, hammock hut, and game area for the kids to stay entertained."
Educational opportunities: Families can find interactive learning experiences at campgrounds in the area. RL mentions about Henry Horton State Park: "Interactive heritage festivals and other activities frequently came to the center across the street."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campers mention the importance of selecting level sites. At Campers RV Park, Jessica L. states, "The sites are gravel and mostly level. All sites are FHU."
Site spacing awareness: RVers should check for adequate space between sites. MickandKarla W. observed at Rvino - The Broken Banjo, "The sites are decently spaced and site 27 was the easiest pull through we've ever had as its angled straight in from the street, no turns or maneuvering to center the rig."
Hookup variations: Different sites offer different hookup configurations. According to MickandKarla W., "The utilities are located smartly in the middle of the pad to include an extra sewer connection near the pad's front. Water pressure was okay at around 45 psi."
