Percy Priest Lake and the Cumberland River create a natural backdrop for camping near Greenbrier, Tennessee, which sits approximately 20 miles northeast of Nashville at an elevation of around 600 feet. The area's limestone cedar glades create unique natural habitats rarely found elsewhere. Camping options include RV parks, state parks, and specialized sites offering yurt camping near Greenbrier with varying levels of access to waterways.
What to do
Fishing access points: Percy Priest Lake at Shutes Branch offers excellent fishing spots without requiring extended hikes. "This site is perfect if fishing and boating! Many people come here to fish but unfortunately that is not my thing!" shares camper Linda L.
Music venue proximity: The Nashville area delivers easy concert access from Nashville KOA Resort, which sits near major music attractions. "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," reports Jennifer H.
Hiking trails: Cedar glades hiking at Cedars of Lebanon State Park provides unique terrain exploration. One camper notes, "Beautiful park with tons to do. Campsites in area 1 were a little close together. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and charcoal grill."
What campers like
Swimming facilities: The pool at Montgomery Bell State Park receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "Nice well kept camp grounds. Restaurant in the park. Sites are level and large," notes Stephen D. about Montgomery Bell State Park Campground.
Waterfront views: Lakeside camping creates memorable experiences at certain properties. "Nice clean paved spots facing the lake. Full hookup with playgrounds and a general store. The water park is amazing," writes Jared B. about Nashville Shores.
Private camping spots: Secluded locations like Whooping Crane Farm offer privacy just minutes from Nashville. "Whooping Crane Farm is located in such a great spot, just outside Nashville, it is easy to get to, but convenient to everything. The camp spot is fantastic! Right on the Cumberland River, the spot is very secluded," explains camper Lori H.
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Several campgrounds near major roads experience traffic noise. At Nashville North KOA, camper Olaf I. reports, "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."
Yurt availability: Yurt camping in Greenbrier, Tennessee area requires advance booking, particularly at state parks. Cedars of Lebanon State Park offers yurt accommodations as alternatives to traditional camping, with full reservations common throughout peak season.
Seasonal facilities: Water park access varies by season at Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort. One camper notes, "We didn't actually stay here because after I booked I realized the water park is not open during the week although it had officially opened the week before."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Montgomery Bell State Park offers excellent family facilities. "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.
Kid-friendly activities: Cedars of Lebanon organizes seasonal children's programming. "Their halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!" shares Justin L.
Family convenience: Proximity to Nashville attractions matters for many families with children. At Nashville KOA Resort, one camper observed, "Tidy sites, tons of them, something for everyone and then some. Paved roads the kids loved scootering on."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling equipment at certain campgrounds. About Nashville East-Lebanon KOA, Candy H. advises, "Friendly folks, but the entire campground is kinda hilly. You can get level in the pull through, but just if you park so-so."
Water hookup positions: Some campsites have unusual utility placements. At Nashville KOA Resort, one RVer mentioned, "The utilities are more to the front of the site with two sewer connections. We had decent water pressure."
Road navigation: Interior roads can be tight for larger rigs. At Cedars of Lebanon, reviewer Ashley U. notes, "The only thing that was not ideal were how tight the roads were between campsites but it may have felt that way because we are new to hauling a camper."
