Camping near Fairview, Tennessee offers a mix of riverside experiences and wooded settings within 30-45 minutes of this small town. Located in the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee at approximately 800 feet elevation, the region's camping areas feature both open meadows and densely forested sites. Water access is a significant draw, with several campgrounds situated on rivers and lakes where summer water temperatures typically reach the mid-80s.
What to do
Kayaking on the Piney River: At Piney River Resort in Bon Aqua, visitors can enjoy the clear waters just steps from their campsite. "We sat in beach chairs and let the current wash over us. The swimming hole was great! We loved watching the younger crowd jump off the cliff into the water. Fishing and kayaking too!" notes Elizabeth S.
Hiking historical trails: Visit Meriwether Lewis Campground along the Natchez Trace for free primitive camping and historical exploration. "Trails to hike that are challenging but not too hard for kids of multiple ages. Pretty water falls not far from the camp site. History and adventure!" shares Brittni F.
Fishing at riverside sites: The Cumberland River offers excellent fishing opportunities at several campgrounds. "Lock A is a very basic campground. There are not many sites so it isn't crowded. There is a walking trail, swim area, and Cheatham dam is close by," explains Faith S., highlighting the calm setting perfect for anglers.
What campers like
Creekside camping: At Montgomery Bell State Park Campground, many campers prefer the water-adjacent sites. "Montgomery Bell State Park is very clean and quiet. 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," recommends Tammy P.
Reasonable pricing: Affordability stands out at Seven Points near Hermitage. A camper named Tim H. notes, "$22 per night - Am I in Nashville? Yes sir," highlighting the value found just 45 minutes from Fairview.
Private, spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer good separation between sites. "The tent only camping sites. They are spread out far enough that you don't feel like you are in one another space," explains Lexi S. about Montgomery Bell State Park, noting the balance between community and privacy.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many of the popular campgrounds require booking well in advance, especially for weekend stays. "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 Montgomery Bell State Park.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. Regarding Piney River Resort, one camper cautions, "The drive in from the highway was very scary on narrow, windy roads with dropoffs on the side. We took the staff recommended route in and Co-Pilot's route out and both were scary in our Class A towing a car hauler."
Seasonal crowds: Holiday weekends bring significantly more campers. "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," reports Jody A. about their experience at Montgomery Bell.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Many campgrounds feature kid-friendly water access. At Harpeth River Bridge Campground, families appreciate the setting: "It's a beautiful find. Small with only 15 sites but they are all concrete level pads. Easy access to the River," notes Rona S.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There is a large sandy children's playground. Adequate bathhouse. Extra parking for boats and jet skis," explains Abby C. about Lock A campground.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Montgomery Bell State Park receives consistent praise for family camping. "Great family friendly park with lots of hiking and historical sites. There is a beautiful waterfall and an adorable old church," comments Faith S.
Tips from RVers
Leveling and site selection: RVers should check site specifications carefully. At Tanbark Campground, one camper shared, "Level enough that I didn't unhook, just lowered jacks for stabilization. I don't see where the complaints about space come from. All of the tight spaces are taken by full time residents."
Hookup considerations: Power options vary by campground. "The site I had was a little awkward backing into and the water hookup was on the wrong side for my camper. Nice facilities," notes Nathan R. about Montgomery Bell State Park.
Size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. Regarding Piney River Resort, Pat&Amanda D. advise, "I'd say this is a much better stay for smaller RVs," after experiencing difficulties with their Class A and car hauler.
