Montgomery Bell State Park Campground caters to family-oriented campers with kid-friendly facilities and trails, located 45 minutes west of Nashville. The 4,000-acre park maintains 117 campsites with varying levels of privacy, including both spacious back-in spots and more centralized tent-only areas. Water and electric hookups are standard at most sites, with fire rings and picnic tables provided. Late summer and early fall visitors should prepare for mosquitos, particularly near creek areas.
What to do
Family-friendly hiking trails: Montgomery Bell State Park offers trails suitable for all ages and skill levels. "Great family friendly park with lots of hiking and historical sites. There is a beautiful waterfall and an adorable old church," reports Faith S. after exploring the Montgomery Bell State Park Campground.
Swimming and water activities: Percy Priest Lake at Four Corners RV Resort provides opportunities for boating and swimming from May through September. "We rented the pontoon and enjoyed the beautiful lake. Highly recommend bringing bug spray for your RV because at night they are all over the door and walls," notes Stephanie R. from her stay at Four Corners RV Resort.
Creek wading for children: Several parks feature accessible creeks perfect for children. As one camper at Whooping Crane Farm mentioned, "The camp spot is fantastic! Right on the Cumberland River, the spot is very secluded, and plenty of space for a group." Smaller children can wade safely while parents supervise from shore.
What campers like
Fishing opportunities: Local lakes and streams offer good fishing conditions year-round. "There is a pond on the property, which the host, Ellen, allowed us to fish in. The River would be difficult to access, at least while we were there in late August, as there is a big drop off from the bank," explains Lori H. from Whooping Crane Farm.
Peaceful waterfront sites: Many campgrounds offer premium sites near water. "We've stayed 6 times at MB, it's my partners fave place to go. Our fave sites are 1-8, with #1+2 right next to the creek and the most updated bathrooms," shares Stæven F. who frequents Montgomery Bell State Park.
Spacious sites at select campgrounds: Henry Horton State Park features well-designed sites with adequate space. "We stayed on site 18 and it was very level, paved and double wide. Parking was easy and it accommodated the 38' RV and a SUV. The sites all seem to be well shaded and spaced sufficiently apart," notes Randy C. from Henry Horton State Park Campground.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At many campgrounds, location significantly impacts experience. "The tent only camping sites are spread out far enough that you don't feel like you are in one another space. However, they are all together in the center of the RV camping loop. They are not quiet as secluded and quiet as we would have liked," explains Lexi S. about Montgomery Bell.
Holiday weekend congestion: Some campgrounds become overcrowded during peak periods. "This place is OK when it's not a busy weekend. We stayed on Memorial Day Weekend and it's was completely full. When it's full, it's just TOO full. Too many people, dogs and kids that are too close together," warns Jody A.
Interstate noise at some locations: Nashville North KOA and similar campgrounds near highways experience traffic noise. "Very very noisy due to the highway that runs right on the other side of the tree line. But... the folks running the show are really nice," notes Mary L. who stayed at Nashville North KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Several campgrounds feature well-maintained playgrounds. "With a great pavilion, volleyball court, ball diamond, and playground, the far side of the camp is perfect for families, groups, and events," recommends Stæven F. about Montgomery Bell State Park.
Consider seasonal events: Some parks host special activities during holidays. "Their halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!" shares Justin L. about Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground, which organizes seasonal programming.
Reserve early for creek-side spots: The most desirable family sites book quickly. "Check out the creekside campsites and book early if you want to accommodate your group OR get a spot. Sites are able to booked 6 months ahead, so think ahead," advises Stæven F. about planning a stay at Montgomery Bell.
Tips from RVers
Level sites available: Many campgrounds offer concrete pads that require minimal setup. "Very Clean and organized. Low key and not a lot of 'permanent' residences. Awesome amenities too," explains Alex D. about his experience at Nashville KOA Resort.
Water pressure considerations: Water systems vary between parks. "The utilities are more to the front of the site with two sewer connections. We had decent water pressure," notes MickandKarla W. at Nashville KOA Resort.
Cell coverage and WiFi quality: Digital connectivity varies by location. "We got 4 bars on Verizon and used our MiFi versus Starlink for our overnight stay. The KOA WiFi was very good when we tried it," shares MickandKarla W., which matters for those needing to stay connected while glamping in Fairview, Tennessee.
Legend
