Montgomery Bell State Park offers pet-friendly camping on 4,000 acres with hiking trails and creek access. The park's camping areas include tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins, with multiple trails accessible directly from the campground. Several smaller creeks run through the property, providing natural cooling spots for dogs during warm months. The park maintains consistent leash rules throughout all common areas.
What to do
Kayaking on the Piney River: Visitors at Piney River Resort can enjoy water activities directly from the campground. The river offers clear water perfect for paddling. "Kayaking the piney river is a must," notes Dawn C., while another camper mentioned, "We enjoyed swimming, fishing, and kayaking."
Hiking the Bicentennial Trail: Located near Lock A Campground, this 13.3-mile trail runs through shaded areas and features geocaching opportunities. "We hiked the Bicentennial Trail which was also shaded and with geocaches. We went with our 2 dogs and 2 kids," shares Ines M. The trail connects to the Ashland City Rails to Trails network.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide fishing access on the Cumberland River or local lakes. At Lock A, campers can fish directly from their sites. "The site was within a quarter inch of level and was a concrete pad... It's pretty cool watching the big barges move up and down the river during the day," notes Guy M. Many waterfront sites allow direct water access for bank fishing.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Harpeth River Bridge Campground features concrete pads with water and electric hookups. "It's a beautiful find. Small with only 15 sites but they are all concrete level pads. Easy access to the River. Absolutely beautiful mornings with the fog over the water to look at while you sip your coffee," writes Rona S.
Quiet camping environment: For those seeking a peaceful retreat with pets, several campgrounds offer more secluded options. "Whooping Crane Farm is a private glamping site... The property is 12 minutes from downtown Nashville, making it a perfect Glamping location. The site is gated and right on the river, so the only traffic you have to worry about are the barges," notes Nate H.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local fauna. "Deer, Blue Herons, and Squirrels are abundant," mentions Abby C. when describing her stay at Lock A Campground. Wildlife awareness remains important, especially during dawn and dusk hours when animals are most active.
What you should know
Reservation timing matters: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Make your reservations early!! Beautiful area lakes, groomed trails, nice hosts - highly recommend," advises Andrea R. about Montgomery Bell State Park. Some Corps of Engineers sites like Seven Points can be booked six months in advance.
Road conditions vary: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. At Piney River Resort, "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," warns Pat&Amanda D.
Weather considerations: Tennessee's climate brings high humidity in summer months, making waterfront sites preferred. "We chose a site along the beautiful Piney River with full hook-ups, level cement pad, pavilion with lights and ceiling fan, kind neighbors and the wonderful sounds of silence," shares Tony D. about his experience at Piney River Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with recreation areas: Nashville KOA Resort provides multiple family-friendly amenities. "The amenities are top notch. Clean restrooms showers. Friendly staff," notes Shelly. The campground includes a pool, playground, and organized activities for children.
Creek access for kids: Several campgrounds feature shallow water areas perfect for younger campers. "The camp spot is fantastic! Right on the Cumberland River, the spot is very secluded, and plenty of space for a group," writes Lori H. about Whooping Crane Farm, adding that "children can wade in the creek all day, why parents enjoy sitting outside under all the shade trees."
Playground availability: Campgrounds with play structures provide additional entertainment for families with pets. "Large sandy children's playground. Adequate bathhouse. Extra parking for boats and jet skis. Well lit at night," describes Abby C. when sharing her experience at Lock A Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Most campgrounds near Fairview offer level sites, but preparation remains important. At Tanbark Campground, "Level enough that I didn't unhook, just lowered jacks for stabilization... We had more than enough room for a 36' 5th wheel with 3 slideouts, a cargo carrier on the back, tow vehicle (which I didn't have to unhook) and a second vehicle," reports Paul.
Hookup positioning: Pay attention to utility placement when selecting a pet-friendly site. Nathan R. notes about Montgomery Bell, "The site I had was a little awkward backing into and the water hookup was on the wrong side for my camper." Some campgrounds feature dual sewer connections or utilities positioned toward the front of sites.
Transportation options: When camping with pets near Nashville, consider shuttle services. Two Rivers Campground offers convenient transportation: "Nice shuttle service to downtown Nashville ($10) round trip offered from two separate shuttle companies," according to Aaron L., providing an alternative to driving RVs into congested areas.
Guide
