Best Tent Camping near Franklin, TN

Searching for a tent campsite near Franklin? With The Dyrt, it's easy to find Franklin campgrounds for you and your tent. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Franklin campsites are perfect for tent campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Franklin, Tennessee (16)

    Camper-submitted photo at Long Hunter State Park Campground near J Percy Priest Lake, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Long Hunter State Park Campground near J Percy Priest Lake, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Long Hunter State Park Campground near J Percy Priest Lake, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Long Hunter State Park Campground near J Percy Priest Lake, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Long Hunter State Park Campground near J Percy Priest Lake, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Long Hunter State Park Campground near J Percy Priest Lake, TN

    1. Long Hunter State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    59 Photos
    128 Saves
    J Percy Priest Lake, Tennessee

    Backcountry Camping- Reservation Required

    Long Hunter has 2 primitive campsites for tent camping only, each site has a designated fire ring. Both sites are wooded, offering shade, they are located on the shoreline of J.Percy Priest Lake.

    A 6-mile hike is required to reach the sites, beginning at the parking lot, using the Day Loop/Volunteer Trailhead. Backpacking equipment is strongly suggested. There is no running water, electricity, restrooms or heated showers available. Water must be filtered from natural sources or carried in. The campsites are open year-round. Campsite capacity ranges from 8-10 persons. What to Know Before You Go

    Reservations are required for ALL backcountry camping.
    Your reservation receipt is your permit.
    A copy of the camping receipt MUST on your person, during your overnight stay. 
    A copy of the camping receipt or a piece of paper with the name associated with the reservation MUST be placed in the dash of each vehicle that is to be parked overnight at the trail head.
    No hiking on trails after dark. Please allow enough time to reach your destination in daylight.
    The last permit issued will be 2-3 hours before sunset
    

    Pet Policy

    Leashed pets are allowed on this site.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo at Bells Bend Park near Pegram, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Bells Bend Park near Pegram, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Bells Bend Park near Pegram, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Bells Bend Park near Pegram, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Bells Bend Park near Pegram, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Bells Bend Park near Pegram, TN

    2. Bells Bend Park

    3 Reviews
    20 Photos
    72 Saves
    Pegram, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $10 - $11 / night

    Nate H.'s photo of tent camping at Whooping Crane Farm near Ashland City, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Whooping Crane Farm near Ashland City, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Whooping Crane Farm near Ashland City, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Whooping Crane Farm near Ashland City, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Whooping Crane Farm near Ashland City, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Whooping Crane Farm near Ashland City, TN

    3. Whooping Crane Farm

    2 Reviews
    24 Photos
    51 Saves
    Ashland City, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Smith Springs near La Vergne, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Smith Springs near La Vergne, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Smith Springs near La Vergne, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Smith Springs near La Vergne, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Smith Springs near La Vergne, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Smith Springs near La Vergne, TN

    4. Smith Springs

    2 Reviews
    13 Photos
    25 Saves
    La Vergne, Tennessee

    Overview

    Smith Springs Recreation Area is a lakeside oasis in the hills of middle Tennessee, providing visitors with countless recreational activities on the lake and in the surrounding woods and grasslands.

    Recreation

    The lake provides a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities for millions of visitors each year. Because of the temperate climate and relatively long recreation season, visitors have numerous activities to choose from, including fishing, hunting, picnicking, boating, canoeing, hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing. Fishing opportunities abound at J. Percy Priest Lake, with a wide variety of species available, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, striped bass, Cherokee bass, and white bass. Other species such as catfish, bluegill, bream and trout provide excellent opportunities for younger anglers. Nearby Anderson Road Fitness Trail is a paved trail winding a little over a mile through the cedar glade area beside the lake.

    Facilities

    Smith Springs Recreation Area offers a large group shelter for day use and can accommodate up to 50 guests. There is limited parking suitable only for 12 vehicles.

    Natural Features

    J. Percy Priest Dam and Lake was one of the first Corps of Engineers lakes to have recreation as part of its justification. The dam, completed in 1968, impounds 42 miles, with 14,200 surface acres of water. In soothing contrast to the sparkling waters of the lake are the adjacent 19,087 acres of grasslands and woodlands. A highlight of the region, the Cedar Glades Natural Area, is home to countless wildlife and plant species, including the Tennessee coneflower.

    Nearby Attractions

    J. Percy Priest Lake is conveniently located about 10 miles east of downtown Nashville, offering visitors countless cultural activities and the conveniences of a metro area.

    • Electric Hookups
    • Tents
    • Group

    $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Cook - J. Percy Priest Reservoir near J Percy Priest Lake, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Cook - J. Percy Priest Reservoir near J Percy Priest Lake, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Cook - J. Percy Priest Reservoir near J Percy Priest Lake, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Cook - J. Percy Priest Reservoir near J Percy Priest Lake, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Cook - J. Percy Priest Reservoir near J Percy Priest Lake, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Cook - J. Percy Priest Reservoir near J Percy Priest Lake, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Stones River Getaway near Murfreesboro, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Stones River Getaway near Murfreesboro, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Stones River Getaway near Murfreesboro, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Stones River Getaway near Murfreesboro, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Stones River Getaway near Murfreesboro, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Stones River Getaway near Murfreesboro, TN

    6. Stones River Getaway

    1 Review
    17 Photos
    11 Saves
    Murfreesboro, Tennessee

    Our beautiful setting overlooks the West Fork of the Stones River. With walk-in access to the water, the camp is perfect for exploring a thriving river system (2, 6, and 8 mile floats are easy since take-out points are just up the road a piece or just paddle up and down the river, depending on the rains). The river is wadable most of the year. Smallmouth and seasonal trout make for easy fishing. The river is home to an abundance of birds, turtles, and fur-bearing friends.

    The tent is equipped with a queen bed, sheets and blankets, a heater for the colder nights and fans for the warmer ones. We have an additional pop up tent that can accommodate 2 people, however you will need to bring a sleeping bag. We also have space for more pop-up tents, so if you have a bigger group there will be plenty of space to spread out. The tent is off-grid but we provide battery operated lights, a charging power bank and the ability to use electric plugs outside our house if there is a real need.

    Two rock beaches on our property are across from a river island! Beyond that is a small creek and 190 acres of vacant land.

    In case you run out of Lunchables, we have several methods for camp cooking with fire or our dual-fuel Coleman stove. Keep your refreshments fresh all weekend with our big Coleman cooler.

    If you don't feel like cooking, Downtown Nashville (40 minutes) and Murfreesboro (15 minutes) are close for campers needing an escape from nature. Last minute supplies are just minutes away.

    We provide board games, outdoor games, kayaks for rent, tubes for rent, fishing gear for rent and other seasonal amenities!

    Because the location is very convenient, it also comes with passing cars and the hum of I-840 in the distance mingling harmoniously with the babbling brook. The groundhogs and kingfishers don't seem to mind it too much.

    Please let us know if you need an earlier check in or later check out. We will always try to accommodate if we can.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Tent Cabin

    $112 - $160 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Southport Saltpeter Cave near Mount Pleasant, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Southport Saltpeter Cave near Mount Pleasant, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Southport Saltpeter Cave near Mount Pleasant, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Southport Saltpeter Cave near Mount Pleasant, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Southport Saltpeter Cave near Mount Pleasant, TN

    7. Southport Saltpeter Cave

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    69 Saves
    Mount Pleasant, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Old Hickory Beach near Hendersonville, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Old Hickory Beach near Hendersonville, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Old Hickory Beach near Hendersonville, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Old Hickory Beach near Hendersonville, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Old Hickory Beach near Hendersonville, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Old Hickory Beach near Hendersonville, TN

    8. Old Hickory Beach

    1 Review
    22 Photos
    17 Saves
    Hendersonville, Tennessee

    Overview

    Old Hickory Beach sits along the lengthy shoreline of Old Hickory Lake. The day-use area is perfect for visitors looking to spend a day on the lake or lounging on the beach. Entertaining is easy with a large group picnic shelter accommodating up to 100 guests and grills for cooking out. Birders can find a mix of waterfowl, wading birds, migratory songbirds and the occasional Blue heron or Snowy egret. Other wildlife in the area includes wild turkey, rabbits and white-tailed deer.

    Recreation

    Swimming and sailing are popular activities on the lake, while anglers will find an abundant population of catfish, crappie and bass for exceptional bank and boat fishing. Hikers can explore the 1.1-mile Old Hickory Lake Nature Trail, featuring three loops (the Woodland Loop, Willow Swamp Loop and the Wildlife Loop), covering varying terrain. The trail is located below Old Hickory Dam near the tailwater parking lot.

    Facilities

    A sandy swimming beach, a playground for the kids, small shelter near the beach and water, large reserveable shelter, and boat ramps.

    Natural Features

    Old Hickory Lake is a 22,500 acre reservoir created by the Old Hickory Lock and Dam on the Cumberland River. The lake is named after former president Andrew Jackson, a Tennessee-native nicknamed "Old Hickory" for his tough and aggressive personality.

    Nearby Attractions

    Take in the nightlife of downtown Nashville if city entertainment beckons or stick with the great outdoors and sit on the fishing piers at Rockland, Sanders Ferry, Shutes Branch, and Bledsoe Creek State Park. The lake is also near the Hermitage, the plantation where U.S. President Andrew Jackson lived in the early 1800s.

    Charges & Cancellations

    If a customer cancels a group day use facility (shelter) reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service charge.

    • Electric Hookups
    • Tents
    • Group

    $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Laguardo near Mount Juliet, TN

    9. Laguardo

    2 Reviews
    4 Saves
    Mount Juliet, Tennessee

    Overview

    Not far from Nashville, Laguardo is a great day-trip destination for kids and families. It offers a playground, boat ramp, and sandy beach to keep both the kids and adults entertained. Visitors looking for a little more action will find this area is also ideal for bank fishing.

    Recreation

    Laguardo is a popular spot for picnicking, swimming, bank fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and other water sports with a convenient boat ramp located within the facility.

    Facilities

    The group picnic shelter holds up to 50 guests and parking may be available for up to 50 vehicles. A restroom facility, family friendly playground, swimming area with sandy beach, and picnic tables located throughout the park are also available.

    Natural Features

    Old Hickory Lake is a 22,500 acre reservoir created by the Old Hickory Lock and Dam on the Cumberland River. The lake is surrounded by wooded areas and grassy flatlands in addition to 440 miles of scenic shoreline.

    Nearby Attractions

    Just across the Old Hickory Lake to the North, hikers and cyclist can enjoy the trails at Lock 4 Park. Mountain bikers may also try the Shutes Branch Mountain Biking Trail. In Hendersonville, located at the dam, Archers and bow hunters can sharpen their skills using the Old Hickory Lake Archery Range and trail.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets

    $85 - $120 / night

    Michael K.'s photo of tent camping at Camp Nashville Highland Rim near Goodlettsville, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Camp Nashville Highland Rim near Goodlettsville, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Camp Nashville Highland Rim near Goodlettsville, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Camp Nashville Highland Rim near Goodlettsville, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Camp Nashville Highland Rim near Goodlettsville, TN
    Camper-submitted photo at Camp Nashville Highland Rim near Goodlettsville, TN

    10. Camp Nashville Highland Rim

    1 Review
    12 Photos
    32 Saves
    Goodlettsville, Tennessee

    Secluded hilltop primitive camping nestled among the hardwoods near Nashville.

    Amenities: community water hydrant, fire pit, vault toilet, tent shower (cold & hot water).

    Supply your own tent, hammock, vehicle, and camping gear. No electricity.

    Choose your favorite available camping space upon arrival.

    Base price includes two adults (18 or older) per reservation. Under 18 no cost with adult reservation.

    Contact host for special requests, and tips for local amenities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $32 - $45 / night

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 16 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews near Franklin, Tennessee

551 Reviews of 16 Franklin Campgrounds


  • Ethan K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Nashville - CLOSED
    Sep. 30, 2016

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Nashville - CLOSED

    Near Nashville but more catered towards RV's

    A decent campground a short drive outside of Nashville. Most of the space was taking up by RV's but there was a small area for tent camping as well. The tent campsites did have grills which was nice a touch to make dinner. There was a sandlot playground as well which I did not use but would be nice for families camping with children.

  • Jimmy C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Tanbark Campground
    Oct. 2, 2021

    Tanbark Campground

    Awesome Spot!!

    I pulled in really late to tent camp. Richard, the owner came down and checked me in. Such a chill spot to set up for the night. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a spot to rest for the night. Not real sure how many tent sites he has but the one I am at right now is super close to the showers and the main office which is cool for a couple reasons. Convenience and safety! Check this place out for sure!

  • CC C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Nashville I-24 Campground
    Oct. 8, 2021

    Nashville I-24 Campground

    Lovely stay

    We are RTT campers and chose this place on a whim as the rest of the local tent camping spots closed on October 1st. We were lucky to find they had space available. However, it should be noted that this is more of an RV campground, the traditional tent sites are right by the gate and not very private. The RV slot we were given backed up to a green space that has grazing deer from time to time. The site did not have a fire ring or a picnic table and was a little far from the bathrooms, but it did have power and water available. That being said the bathrooms were extremely tidy, well heated, and the water pressure in the showers was amazing! The other RV’ers were super friendly and the staff was very helpful in our stay and responsive to our request for availability.

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Meriwether Lewis Campground
    Sep. 5, 2018

    Meriwether Lewis Campground

    When you think FREE you probably don't think of sites THIS NICE!

    For My FULL VIDEO Of My Experience At This Campground CLICK HERE

    Following the winding a scenic Natchez Trace you begin to climb higher and higher into the beauty of the mountains. When I was making this trip in late August, I could already see the shifting of the leave in its most early stages and I could only imagine what it would be like only a month later.

    As I entered the park and followed the signs toward the campground I was very eager to see what this FREE site had to offer. I had discovered this site when searching youtube for things to do and someone suggested camping here because of the historic landmark in the park. After further research I discovered it was a pretty decently sized campground with semi primitive camping.

    I arrived at the camping loops and discovered two loops of camping each with differing sizes of spaces, some designed for pull through style RV parking and some for back in car parking. Spaces were large and while there were several people staying here it did not seem overly crowded.

    The first loop was much further from the restroom than the second, which also housed the campground host in his RV just as you entered the loop. He was welcoming with a smile and wave and I just felt like this was going to be a nice place to stay for the night.

    You can stay for up to 14 days at this location and I could easily see this being one of those stops you wouldn’t necessarily want to leave in a hurry because it was so peaceful. There were numerous hiking trails and a well landscaped creek area which made for a great place to come for day use as well.

    My site was pretty typical in that it had a fire ring and picnic table. The ground was semi level and very rough so camping in a tent I was happy to have brought a little padding. The restrooms were very nice and had both flush toilets and drinking water. They were well lit and for a minute when I walked in I wondered how on earth this was a free site because they were so nice.

    All was great until about 8 p.m. when some people pulled in after dark and weren’t quite sure how to set up their tent and were pretty loudly disagreeing with one another in debate of how to do so. But after they finally figured that out about an hour later the night was again left to the sounds of the cicadas and frogs.

    TIPS

    • If you are tent camping bring some kind of cushion on pad for your floor otherwise it will be a rough evening on the ground.
    • Bug spray is a must, the mosquitoes are thick here because of all the moisture of the forest and ticks can also be a problem during certain months.
    • Don’t tell all your friends, they will take over your secret little camping spot after they find out just how amazing this site really is!! (lol)
  • Tommy S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Meriwether Lewis Campground
    Jul. 9, 2019

    Meriwether Lewis Campground

    Can’t beat Free

    I have tent camped here twice, once in 2013 and just last week. Both times I was traveling the Trace by motorcycle and stopped for the night. Camping spots are easy accessible and first come first served. Both times I’ve been here has been during 4th of July week/weekend and the campground has only had a few campers, never packed. The grounds are nice and well maintained. If you’re tent camping or wondering about be sure to spray down with bug spay, red bugs and ticks are present as with an natural camping woods.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Barton Springs Campground
    May. 4, 2021

    Barton Springs Campground

    Nice sand beach

    Nice sand beach. Ample parking. Grassy tent camping areas and RV paved area pull through. Lots of wildlife. Quiet area. Good fishing, kayaking, canoeing area. Boat dock nearby. Bathroom facilities on property.

  • Amelia R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinewood Canoe & Camp LLC
    Feb. 23, 2024

    Pinewood Canoe & Camp LLC

    Beautiful spot

    On the gorgeous Piney River! Tent camping and RV spots. Gets busy during holiday weekend and middle of summer but still a great place and worth a visit! Also a kayak rental company so you can camp and float the river.

  • Tim S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bledsoe Creek State Park Campground
    Sep. 26, 2022

    Bledsoe Creek State Park Campground

    Great spot but for showers

    Tent camped for 2 nights. Terrific time in late September. Not too crowded. Camp hosts were very nice. Shower/bath facilities need reconfiguring and updating as the stalls leave you very exposed, water not hot. That said looking to visit once more this autumn.

  • Chrischelle N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Poole Knobs
    Sep. 11, 2020

    Poole Knobs

    Quiet and peaceful

    Nice quiet campground where I highly recommend getting a spot by the water. A bit un-level in most spots for tent camping. Bathroom and showers are a bit old, but it’s cleaned often and the shower water is hot. Not wowed by this place but it’s close and affordable.

  • Jason J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Montgomery Bell State Park Campground
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Montgomery Bell State Park Campground

    Good spot

    My favorite thing about this campground was it’s proximity to Narrows of the Harper, which I wanted to hike. Tent site, a little close in the campground, but not so bad it affected the experience negatively. Facilities well-maintained.

  • Tim S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground
    Jun. 21, 2022

    Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground

    Great back to back weekends for two novice tent campers

    We tent camped for two consecutive weekends at Cedars of Lebanon. We are local novice campers. The campsites were well maintained with electric and water hookups. The bathhouse at Campground 2 is quite clean and is newer than Campground 1. Both of our stays were in Campground 2 near the bath house. Our first visit was with our dog, second was without. The fire ring in our second stay was weirdly located. Firewood is for sale inside the park and late afternoons the campground host drives thru on a gator like vehicle and offers bundles for sale at $6 each. The place is busy and active but very chill.

    We hiked a little on Saturday midday. When I say “hike” I mean we strolled on a trail. Very nice time.

    Any critiques by us would be unwarranted. Folks who work there were quite nice. We are very early on the learning curve. That we were able to go and tent camp and have a good time at our age proves that COL is a great place for newer campers to enjoy. We plan to go back a lot.

  • Lori H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Montgomery Bell State Park Campground
    May. 12, 2019

    Montgomery Bell State Park Campground

    Beautiful Park!

    The park is amazing! The campground is ok, the spaces are good sized with plenty of space between, If tent camping, I would try to get one along the wooded sides, you’ll have more privacy that way. We stayed on site 99, across from a small creek, but right in the middle of the campground. The bathrooms are just ok, there’s no changing room in the shower stalls, so be prepared.

  • Benjamin C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Point Campground
    Oct. 10, 2021

    Cedar Point Campground

    Group Tent Camp!

    We went to camp here with our AHG group. We tent camped to complete one of their badges. We camp often and we enjoy it. The place is clean and organized well. The tent sights are elevated slightly which allows a nice “overlook” of the camp ground. Some tent spots were kind of sloped so be mindful of finding a good flat spot. Bath houses were clean and functioning. Good water front locations. We had a great time and recommend for a short stay.

  • Lauren B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Poole Knobs
    Jun. 29, 2019

    Poole Knobs

    More for RV’s then tents

    Poole knobs was not a terrible place to camp but it appeared to have better sites for RV’s then tents. The tent sites had minimal space to pitch a tent unless you have a single person tent or you pitched the tent on a slope. We only stayed one night because a bad storm came through And a tree fell on our tent ending our trip early. The campground lost power but without expecting or asking for it(because they can not control the weather) they refunded the $$ we spent to stay there.

  • Hannah M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Anderson Road Campground
    May. 18, 2022

    Anderson Road Campground

    NOT FOR TENTS. RV ONLY

    I hate leaving bad reviews, but I have to this time. This campground advertised tent camping and that is clearly not true. Spent 3 nights (mostly because we couldn't go anywhere else) with our tent in a literal runoff ditch. Other sites had tents squished in the trees and there was absolutely no flat spot to even pretend is a tent pad. Also, there was broken glass all over the site and only 1 drinkable water pump (which was right next to the rv dump station pump. Gross). The camp attendants were super nice though and it's close to Nashville. So if you have an rv, great! If you have a tent, I strongly recommend somewhere else.

  • Staci R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Montgomery Bell State Park Campground
    Oct. 8, 2017

    Montgomery Bell State Park Campground

    Bell ringer of a State Park

    Montgomery Bell (MB) is a very well kept State Park and campground. The campground is well planned with RVs and tent sites somewhat segregated, yet close enough to utilize the spaces well. Old shower point is Old, and needs modernizing, but the new shower house is very clean, has wash sinks, vending, and is worth the walk to for showering. The state park as a whole offers well kept trails, dispersed camping (by permit) and many amenities

  • Jessica L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground
    Jun. 26, 2016

    Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground

    Beautiful Cedar Glades

    This is a pretty decent sized campground with plenty of electric hookups and also has a few tent sites. However there are no primitive, backcountry sites, so skip this one if you are wanting a backcountry experience. But, it is a very nice area with so many old, old hardwood cedars. It smells wonderful. There are also a few trials that take you through most of the park and is relatively easy so they are great for kids too.

  • Dan N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground
    Aug. 1, 2016

    Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground

    Cedars everywhere

    Lovely park with somewhat unique cedar glades and tons of rare plant life. If you can snag a serious gardener or botanist to visit with you you’re in for a treat. Trails are easy, lots of wildlife, lots of cedars. Lots of horses on site too. And weddings in the lodge all summer. Modern state park setup, clean and well cared for with some extra activities. Tent sites were more private and woody. Cabins seemed popular given what neighbors said. Very nice state park, would return.

  • Michael T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Point Campground
    Jul. 8, 2021

    Cedar Point Campground

    Excellent grounds!

    Awesome sites right on the water, we brought our kayaks and were able to launch directly from the campsite. Nice firepits with grill grates attached. Site had pretty good shade. If tent camping,the electric pole is a bit far, so be sure to bring extra long extension cords. Lake is extermely quiet and calm. Campground was nice and quiet. There is a decent swimming beach with sand. Bathhouses with shower are close and pretty clean. Campstore with friendly staff and was well stocked including ice cream. We went over the 4th of July and were able to view fireworks from another campground across the lake.

  • Kristen M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Montgomery Bell State Park Campground
    Nov. 28, 2020

    Montgomery Bell State Park Campground

    Quiet and Friendly

    A fantastic family-friendly state campground. Mostly quiet after dark. Neighbors are friendly and welcoming (you’ll find that many visit in groups).

    Amenities: Trails are pleasant. Playground is great. Bathrooms are clean but need an update. Not much in terms of wifi or tv if you are looking for that but att and verizon were usable.

    Roads feel narrow but we had no problem maneuvering in our 36’ 5er. River sites look great but we booked last minute. Wound up with a corner interior spot (107) that backs to a tent camping area so was fantastic for views, too and this spot was quite spacious.

    Location is lovely but is not that close to Nashville if that’s your goal.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Nashville North
    Apr. 4, 2020

    Nashville North

    Very Noisy and Expensive

    Listen to the warnings in the reviews of this campsite. If you are tenting don’t expect to sleep well. I didn’t listen to the cautions and regretted it all night. We picked this campground because the website said they offered a shuttle service to the DT. When I asked the women at the counter (who were very nice) it appeared they had forgotten the website said that quickly said they weren’t offering it that day (it was a Friday). We were then charged 42 dollars for our tent site, we should have just turned around and got an Air B&B at that point. The showers were nice and the wifi connection was good however.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Montgomery Bell State Park Campground
    Apr. 9, 2021

    Montgomery Bell State Park Campground

    One of our favorites!

    We’ve been tent camping for years and try to find places somewhat close to home because we bring our bulldogs with us. This campground is absolutely one of our favorites.

    It is relatively small, but the bathhouses are super clean, and the staff are amazing. I’m hesitant to let our secret out, but we just bought a camper so we won’t be using this campsite anymore. Campsite 78 is the best! One of the scout troops built a platform there years ago, and its perfect to pitch your tent off the ground. In addition, the site is in the back corner, so it’s private and huge! We’ve camped there for their big Halloween shindig for the past three years.

    I hope someone else will enjoy it as much as we have!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lock A
    Jun. 14, 2022

    Lock A

    Roll’n On The River

    The nicest tent site we have ever camped on. Sits on a peninsula with the Cumberland River on one side and a small cove on the other. Great for fishing for those who can catch fish (no luck for me). Campground was well maintained. Bath and shower facilities were clean. We would have given it 5 Stars had it not been for these god awful sounds outside of the tent waking us up at 2:00AM every morning (no fault of the campground). I asked the host Cheryl (great host) what made the sounds and she said it was frogs. I've been camping, fishing and frog gigging for over 50 years, and have never heard any frogs that sound like these. All in all, it was a GREAT campground! In fact, We liked it so much we we booked it again in June and July. We're hoping our new froggie friends that kept waking us up will be gone. If not, we're bringing ear plugs!

  • Catherine C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Anderson Road Campground
    Aug. 25, 2019

    Anderson Road Campground

    Eh...

    This campground is adequate for close proximity to Nashville while still in the wilderness. I highly suggest a campsite on the water side. The ones across the street are pretty wooded and not ideal for tent camping. The site I was given was awkwardly sloped and the small areas for tents were quite overgrown. I arrived at the site after hours and it was trashed so I set up my tent in the parking area until am. I had to wait around until they opened at 10 to ask about changing the site. The woman who works there is very kind and has great recommendations but the man had an attitude about my compliant and his responsibility to go clean it. He did clean it but was not happy about it. My neighbors also ran their very loud generator all night which I realize is not the campground’s fault, but there was a truck that drove the loop all night for security who did nothing about this. When I inquired the next day, they said they’d talk to them but the next night was no different. Not sure what that truck’s job was. On the bright side, the lake is beautiful and the bathrooms are clean. It served its purpose but I cannot recommend. I think this place is just meant for RV camping.


Guide to Franklin

Tent camping near Franklin, Tennessee offers a blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal getaway for nature enthusiasts.

Tent campers should check out Long Hunter State Park Campground

  • Enjoy primitive camping right by the water at Long Hunter State Park Campground, where you can swim and filter water directly from the lake.
  • This campground allows pets and fires, making it a great choice for families looking to enjoy a cozy campfire under the stars.
  • Be prepared for ticks, as some campers have noted their presence, especially around the fire pit area.

Local activities to explore while camping

  • Take advantage of the scenic trails at Bells Bend Park, which offers beautiful views and a chance to see local wildlife.
  • For a unique experience, visit Whooping Crane Farm for glamping right on the river, complete with kayak rentals and a peaceful setting.
  • Explore the hiking opportunities at Smith Springs, where you can enjoy a calm atmosphere and beautiful water access.

Tips for tent camping near Franklin

  • Pack plenty of bug spray if you're heading to Long Hunter State Park Campground to keep ticks at bay.
  • Bring your own firewood to Bells Bend Park, as it’s a pack-in, pack-out site with no trash services.
  • If you prefer a quieter experience, consider Smith Springs, which is well-maintained and offers a peaceful retreat from the busier campgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Franklin, TN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Franklin, TN is Long Hunter State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 7 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Franklin, TN?

    TheDyrt.com has all 16 tent camping locations near Franklin, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.