Glamping near Gallatin, Tennessee offers several options situated between the natural waterways of Old Hickory Lake and J. Percy Priest Lake. The area sits at approximately 500 feet elevation in the Highland Rim geographic region, creating a moderate climate suitable for year-round camping. Summer temperatures average in the mid-80s with humidity levels requiring adequate ventilation for tent and cabin accommodations.
What to do
Boating and water activities: Four Corners RV Resort provides direct lake access with amenities for watercraft owners. "The site itself looks brand new. Everything is up to date, and there were no issues at all. Pictures don't do it justice, there's plenty of nature here to enjoy the outdoors!" according to Chris L., who stayed at Four Corners RV Resort.
Hiking cedar forests: Explore unique limestone formations and endemic plant species along the trails at Cedars of Lebanon State Park. A visitor noted, "Cedars of Lebanon is a great State Park in middle TN for camping and for day hikes. It has a great pool, and the natural area where it's located features tons of endemic species to the area!" The trails range from easy half-mile loops to more challenging 5-mile routes.
Winter seasonal events: For off-season visitors, Nashville North hosts special events through cooler months. One camper mentioned their "halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!" creating opportunities for family activities beyond summer.
What campers like
Platform camping sites: Edgar Evins State Park offers a unique camping experience with elevated wooden platforms. "The sites are tiered and you will get a workout if your walking from one level to the next, which if you need the showerhouse, you will be on certain tiers," writes a camper at Edgar Evins State Park Campground.
Recently renovated facilities: Many campgrounds in the region have updated their amenities. One reviewer at Cedars of Lebanon State Park mentioned, "Bathrooms were super clean. Was able to get groceries and all I needed just 10 mins away."
Quiet lakeside locations: Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort provides concrete pads with lake views. A camper stated, "Nice clean paved spots facing the lake. Full hookup with playgrounds and a general store. The water park is amazing."
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Multiple campgrounds near water require insect preparation, especially during summer months. A camper at Four Corners RV Resort warned, "MOSQUITOS! The first and last night we stayed the mosquitos were so bad we couldn't be outside. There were two nights in between that it was tolerable."
Site spacing varies significantly: Space between accommodations differs greatly between parks. At Dad's Bluegrass Campground, a reviewer appreciated that "All lots are pull through. They have a huge pavilion for events, nice pool, showers, and very clean restrooms."
Highway noise factors: Some locations near interstates experience traffic noise. A Nashville North KOA visitor reported, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Multiple parks offer swimming facilities beyond natural water bodies. At Montgomery Bell State Park, visitors can choose between creek wading and designated swimming areas. One camper shared, "Children can wade in the creek all day, why parents enjoy sitting outside under all the shade trees. The park has tons of activities and good hiking trails."
Recreation infrastructure: Montgomery Bell State Park Campground provides extensive family-oriented facilities. A regular visitor noted, "With a great pavilion, Vb court, ball diamond, and playground, the far side of the camp is perfect for families, groups, and events."
Primitive options for older children: Edgar Evins offers more adventurous camping for families with teens. A visitor explained, "We stayed in the primitive camping section which has a parking area up top and you hike with your equipment down some stairs into a wooded area with about 7 primitive campsites."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. At Nashville East-Lebanon KOA, a camper advised to "Bring leveling blocks. Friendly folks, but the entire campground is kinda hilly. You can get level in the pull through, but just if you park so-so."
Hookup configurations: Water and electrical connections vary between parks. A visitor to Nashville North KOA noted, "For a KOA in town it is ok, the spots are close together, had a back in site which as described was close to a creek, but no mention of the highway right behind the creek."
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly, especially at state parks. A camper recommended, "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."
