Camping around Murfreesboro offers diverse options within Tennessee's Highland Rim, where limestone formations and cedar glades create distinctive natural settings at elevations ranging from 550 to 650 feet. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Many campgrounds experience significant weekend crowding from April through October.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 5 minutes from Manchester. At Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park, visitors can explore multiple waterfalls along Duck River. "The hiking trails are well maintained so hiking to the three waterfall's inside the park is a mild hike," notes Michael P. "The campground itself borders the duck river and is absolutely stunning."
Horseback excursions: 25 minutes from city center. Several campers mention bringing horses to River Road RV Park & Horse Camp. "It's a quiet, no-frills spot on a working farm—perfect if you're looking for a place to relax and recharge after a day of exploring," writes Christie B. "There's some wildlife to enjoy—rabbits, birds, squirrels—and even a couple of mini ponies in the pasture."
Golf outings: Under 10 minutes from campsite. Henry Horton State Park Campground includes an 18-hole golf course. "The park also offers a golf course which I didn't play due to the heat, but is on my list now that I've seen it," says Randy C. "Because of the close proximity to home, this will become on of our go-to spots for a weekend camp."
What campers like
Platform camping: Unique elevated sites. Edgar Evins State Park Campground features distinctive platform camping sites built into hillsides. "We love the platform sites that are so spacious and private. Easy access to dump station and bath houses. Almost all sites have view of water," explains Betheny. The elevated design maximizes views while accommodating the steep shoreline.
Halloween festivities: Family events in October. Cedar forest camping at Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground hosts special seasonal activities. "Their halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!" shares Justin L. Another camper adds, "Interactive heritage festivals and other activities frequently came to the center across the street."
Off-season solitude: Fewer crowds November-March. Winter camping provides a different experience with emptier campgrounds. "Enjoyable stay. The campground is well maintained with plenty of shade at the sites. The bathrooms are nice and warm in the winter and clean," explains Gabe W. about Henry Horton State Park. Another visitor noted, "Great December sleep in go as we headed south. Clean campground and beautiful scenery."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Some areas flood. At Old Stone Fort, campers need to choose carefully. "Pick your site wisely though I noticed some sites sitting in water," one reviewer cautions. Similar concerns exist at Henry Horton, where "Some sites are level, some aren't."
Mosquito preparation: Essential for lakeside sites. Four Corners RV Resort on Percy Priest Lake requires serious bug protection. "The first and last night we stayed the mosquitos were so bad we couldn't be outside," reports Chris L. "I went out on the dock one night to fish and they were so thick it was impossible to not get bit by them."
Reservation timing: Book well ahead for weekends. Most campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak season. "Reserve early because it seems the campground is always full," advises Gillian C. about Cedars of Lebanon. Fall and spring weekends often book 3-4 months in advance at the more popular state parks.
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly loops: Perfect for kids. Several campgrounds feature paved roads ideal for children's bikes. "Plenty of places for the kiddos to ride their bikes," mentions Laur H. about Henry Horton State Park. Another adds, "The sites were level and there was room at this site to let them out with ease."
Budget-friendly alternatives to glamping in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. When luxury glamping exceeds your budget, standard camping provides similar access to nature. "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," shares RL. "I was never disappointed by any of our sites and never felt cramped."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning deer sightings. Early risers often spot deer at multiple parks. "We had deer in our site everyday," one camper shares. At Cedars of Lebanon, another reports, "We saw 10 deer one morning and hiked a trail with our 3 boys and 2 dogs."
Tips from RVers
Technical campsite details: Hookups and leveling. RVers should note accessibility challenges at some parks. "To my surprise I opened the electric pedestal, and there was only 50 amp service. I'm set up for 30 amp, so I had to use an adapter," shares Gregory G. about Cedars of Lebanon. At Nashville East-Lebanon KOA, Candy H. advises: "Bring leveling blocks... the entire campground is kinda hilly."
Marina convenience: Boat launch access. Glamping near Murfreesboro offers boat access at multiple locations. "Additionally, we were right next to one of the courtesy docks where our family members picked us up on their boat, enjoying the lake coves and scenery," notes Erich H. Some resorts offer marina services with boat rentals and fishing supplies.
Construction awareness: Ongoing improvements. New glamping resorts often continue developing while open. "It's still under active construction. Impacted us mainly because it was happening right behind our site with concrete trucks were operating all day," warns Josh K. about Four Corners RV Resort. Ask about current construction when booking.
