Gallatin's waterfront camping areas extend across diverse terrain at the edge of the Highland Rim geological region, where elevations range from approximately 500 to 550 feet. Tent and RV campers have access to several campgrounds within a 30-minute drive of Gallatin. Water levels at Old Hickory Lake fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline conditions at waterfront campsites during different times of the year.
What to do
Wildlife observation along lakeshores: Bledsoe Creek State Park Campground offers multiple opportunities to spot native Tennessee wildlife. "Deer would just walk up near you and just say hello. It's so peaceful," notes one camper at Bledsoe Creek. Another visitor mentions that "ticks are prevalent at this park due to the deer population," so bringing proper repellent is essential.
Fishing from dedicated platforms: Seven Points campground provides shoreline fishing access with comfortable amenities. "Great campground with water and electric hook-ups. The campsites are level cement pads with large well-spaced sites. If you can get a lake view it is wonderful," explains a visitor. The fishing platforms provide stable footing for anglers of all experience levels.
Hiking on established trails: Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground offers distinctive hiking through cedar glades with unique plant species. A camper reports, "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!" Trails range from easy 0.5-mile loops to more challenging 2-mile paths.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Cedar Creek campground features well-designed sites that offer separation from neighbors. "Sites closer to the waterfront are beautiful and more spread out than the inland sites," notes one camper. Another visitor appreciates the "lovely view of the lake if not directly along the shore."
Clean facilities: Nashville KOA Resort maintains exceptionally clean bathhouses and common areas. A visitor mentioned, "This is without a doubt one of the nicest KOA's we've visited. We would absolutely stay here again." Another camper highlighted that "the staff were extremely helpful and pleasant and all employees were masked when indoors."
Peaceful atmosphere: Two Rivers Campground offers a quiet setting despite its proximity to Nashville attractions. A camper notes, "Nice smaller campground with level sites, laundry, store, pool and live music. Minutes from Opryland." Another visitor appreciates that it's "easy access and plenty of space" for camping near the city.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limits: Many campgrounds near Gallatin close during winter months or reduce services. Cedar Creek operates from "April 16 to October 12," while Seven Points runs "April 1 to October 30," according to their seasonal listings.
Traffic and train noise: Grand Ole RV Resort experiences noise from nearby transportation routes. A visitor notes, "Only downfall are the trains that operate 24/7 directly adjacent to the grounds. Trains rolling by at 3 am is not how I like to spend my night." For light sleepers, interior sites may provide more buffer from noise.
Reserve early for waterfront: The best places to camp near Gallatin, Tennessee fill quickly during peak seasons. A camper at Seven Points advises, "We have stayed at Seven Points around Memorial Day for 3 years now. This year was fabulous! We had great neighbors and enjoyed the beach!" Making reservations 3-6 months in advance is recommended for prime sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Cages Bend includes child-friendly recreation areas near camping loops. A visitor notes the campground has a "playground with adjacent shelter" that provides shade during summer months. The camping areas closest to these facilities are loops A and B.
Swimming opportunities: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas for safer water access. A camper at Seven Points mentions they "enjoyed the beach!" which has designated swimming zones with gradual entry points, making it suitable for children of various ages.
Wildlife education: Bledsoe Creek State Park provides opportunities for children to learn about local ecosystems. A visitor reports, "The park was wet and infested with BOY SCOUTS! Looked like they were having rainy fun. Facilities were clean, trails and signage well maintained."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness varies: Nashville East-Lebanon KOA requires careful site selection for larger rigs. A camper warns, "Friendly folks, but the entire campground is kinda hilly. You can get level in the pull through, but just if you park so-so." Bringing extra leveling blocks is recommended.
Dump station access: Cages Bend campground has limited dumping facilities for larger rigs. A visitor with a 25-foot camper notes, "The dump station was clean but short and tight. I have a 25' camper and fit ok, but speaking to another camper with a large 5th wheel, he couldn't use it."
Site design considerations: Some campgrounds feature multi-level sites that affect RV door placement. At Cages Bend, a camper mentions site 17 has "concrete picnic table & grill at different level. Door opening is opposite water views," which can impact convenience for accessing outdoor spaces from your RV.
