Camping options near Gallatin, Tennessee include both waterfront and wooded sites within 30 minutes of downtown. The Cumberland River watershed creates several reservoir lakes in the region with camping at elevations ranging from 450 to 550 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 90-95°F during peak camping season from May through September, with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking and nature trails: Cedar Creek sites provide access to multiple walking paths around Old Hickory Lake. "This is one of my favorite campsites. On Old Hickory Lake. Accomodates both tents and RV's. Most sites have a lovely view of the lake if not directly along the shore. Swimming beach, playground, and marina both within walking distance," notes camper Kathy G. at Cedar Creek Campground.
Fishing spots: Multiple fishing platforms and lake access points available at Cages Bend with boat ramp access. "Great place for fishing. Really pretty sites with river view," shares Terri D. in her review. Fishing is especially productive during early morning and evening hours.
Water recreation: Nashville Shores combines camping with waterpark access during summer months. "The water park is amazing," notes Jared B., though availability is seasonal. "Nice clean paved spots facing the lake. Full hookup with playgrounds and a general store."
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Cages Bend Campground receives high marks for its tranquil setting. "I almost feel bad writing about Cages Bend because I don't want people to crowd us out. It's a core of engineering park one of the best. Small album on the river and so peaceful you'll think your in a move," writes Robert S.
Convenient Nashville access: Seven Points Campground offers a middle ground between nature and city access. "This is a great, easy access campground with great amenities. Lake front sites for campers or tents. Close to groceries and gas station," reports Austin R. Sites are well-maintained with concrete pads and fire rings.
Clean facilities: Seven Points maintains high standards for bathrooms and grounds. "VERY nice campground! Everything is very well kept and neat. We were located close to all of the sights we were going to and had the bonus of a very scenic campground to explore," shares Sara D.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Book well in advance for pet friendly camping near Gallatin, Tennessee, especially during summer. "We found this while traveling from FL to MN - basically needed a place to stay for the night. What a gem and wonderful night! We made online reservations and checked in," notes Lisa at Cages Bend.
Site selection factors: Consider shade availability and proximity to bathrooms. "Camped here in the fall. The spots are decently spaced apart with many trees. Located near a Dollar General for basic needs," reports Laura C. about Cedars of Lebanon State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Water levels fluctuate on Old Hickory Lake, affecting shoreline access. "The water is warm, which isn't something I'm used to being from further north, but the campsites are so nicely groomed and the place is pristine. I could stay here for weeks," shares Sean M. about Seven Points.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Cedars of Lebanon State Park offers family-friendly spaces. "We stayed here for the long Presidents Day weekend in a wooded drive through spot with few neighbors. We saw 10 deer one morning and hiked a trail with our 3 boys and 2 dogs," notes Ines M.
Holiday events: "Their halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!" shares Justin L. about special events at Cedars of Lebanon State Park. Many area campgrounds host seasonal events from April through October.
Swimming options: Grand Ole RV Resort provides entertainment options. "Live music every night was nice. Backing my trailer is not my strong suite but the guided me through it like it was nothing. Great stay," notes Ed S., though another camper mentions, "They show a playset on their map and it was two regular swings and a baby swing. This was disappointing since we had little ones."
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: Cedar Creek Campground features multiple camping areas. "Nice campground consisting of heavily wooded multiple wagon wheel style areas. Sites 1 thru 6 full sun, remainder of sites have partial to full shade. Tight fit for my 43' motorhome, especially maneuvering dump station," advises Randy.
Accessibility issues: Nashville KOA Resort offers full hookups with paved access. "The proximity to the Opry and surrounding sites is fantastic. Top that off with front desk, event and maintenance staff that were all super nice and you've got a great combo. Tidy sites, tons of them, something for everyone and then some. Paved roads the kids loved scootering on," shares Jennifer H.
Extended stay amenities: Nashville KOA offers services for longer visits. "This is without a doubt one of the nicest KOA's we've visited. We would absolutely stay here again," notes Jason F. Another reviewer adds, "WiFi and cell service was 3 of 4 bars AT&T. Very level pad and all roads and sites are concrete."
