Campgrounds near Gladeville, Tennessee sit within rolling farmland and wooded hills of Middle Tennessee, approximately 25 miles east of Nashville. The area features elevations between 500-700 feet above sea level with a humid subtropical climate that offers year-round camping opportunities. Fall temperatures range from 45-70°F, while summer months typically reach 85-95°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Cedars of Lebanon State Park offers unique hiking opportunities through cedar glades with endemic plant species. "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!" reports Phoebe A.
Fishing spots: Henry Horton State Park provides fishing access on Duck River just minutes from campsites. "The backcountry campsites are just a short trek from the camp store, the hike itself follows the river. We only saw one other couple and no one else was staying at the second site so it was such a secluded weekend!" writes Amanda C.
Wildlife watching: Montgomery Bell State Park campers regularly spot deer and other wildlife near their sites. "We saw 10 deer one morning and hiked a trail with our 3 boys and 2 dogs," notes Ines M. from Cedars of Lebanon. The wooded setting creates natural habitats visible from many camping areas.
What campers like
Quiet settings: Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground receives consistent praise for its peaceful environment. "Large level sites with some privacy. Bathrooms were super clean. Was able to get groceries and all I needed just 10 mins away," notes Jared in his review.
Clean facilities: Henry Horton State Park Campground maintains well-kept bathhouses and camping areas. "We loved our stay at HHSP. Check-in was a breeze, setup was simple with a level site, and everyone there, from the park rangers to the camp store staff to the campground hosts, was friendly and helpful," writes Laur H.
Family activities: Montgomery Bell State Park Campground offers organized events that appeal to families with children. "FAMILIES +++ With a great pavilion, Vb court, ball diamond, and playground, the far side of the camp is perfect for families, groups, and events," explains Stæven F.
What you should know
Site selection: Campgrounds vary significantly in site spacing and privacy. At Cedars of Lebanon, "Keep in mind, while making reservations, section 1 has very small, cramped together sites. We took a walk around section 2, and section 3. There was a lot more room, and seemed a little more private," advises Gregory G.
Weather considerations: The area experiences occasional heavy rain, particularly in spring months. Year-round camping is available, but prepare accordingly. "Great December sleep in go as we headed south. Clean campground and beautiful scenery...will return outside winter season," notes Joe N. about Henry Horton State Park.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Reserve early because it seems the campground is always full," warns Gillian C. about Cedars of Lebanon. Holiday weekends typically book 3-6 months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween events: Cedars of Lebanon State Park offers special Halloween programming. "Their halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!" reports Justin L. These events typically include decorated campsites, costume contests, and trick-or-treating.
Swimming options: Multiple parks offer swimming facilities during summer months. "It has a great pool, and the natural area where it's located features tons of endemic species to the area!" notes Phoebe A. about Cedars of Lebanon. Swimming areas generally open Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Playground access: Choose sites near recreational areas for easier access with children. "Plenty of places for the kiddos to ride their bikes," notes Laur H. about Henry Horton State Park. Some campgrounds feature multiple playground areas spread throughout camping loops.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: Rvino - The Broken Banjo offers premium sites with additional amenities. "The 'Premium' sites, such as site 2, has a concrete patio with wrought iron table and chairs, along with a fire-pit and grill," describes Scotty W. These upgraded sites typically cost $5-10 more per night.
Satellite reception: Tree coverage affects satellite reception at several horse campgrounds near Gladeville, Tennessee. "Satellite could be iffy due to the amount of mature trees. We did see Starlink antennas at some of the sites," notes MickandKarla W. about Manchester KOA.
Utility placement: Pay attention to hookup locations when selecting sites. "Water hookup is very close to the ground and leaked for me. Made it very hard to connect the hose and pressure regulator. Used all of my 25 foot hose to reach my connection," reports Jon P. about Dad's Bluegrass Campground.
