Central Tennessee's plateau region offers ample glamping opportunities near Antioch, with elevations ranging from 500 to 1,900 feet across the Cumberland Plateau. Winter temperatures typically range between 30°F and 50°F, while summer averages hover in the 80s with humidity levels reaching 70-80%. Many glamping locations operate year-round but implement seasonal pricing structures with peak rates during summer months.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Rock Island State Park features several accessible waterfalls within hiking distance of the campground. "I love the water falls and hiking in the area. Beautiful landscape makes this a great place to spend the weekend," writes Alicia F. The park offers both short and moderate hiking trails leading to multiple cascades.
Pontoon boat tours: Edgar Evins State Park offers educational pontoon boat tours led by park rangers. "Very informative pontoon boat tour with a Park Ranger. Great lunch at the marina too!" reports Rosa B. Tours typically run on weekends during summer months and provide geological and historical information about the area.
Water recreation: Smooth Rapids Campground provides kayak, canoe, and tube rentals with shuttle service. "We took a river tube and a paddle and it was awesome. They have a shuttle that will drop you off," explains Nate H. Float trips vary in length from 1-3 hours depending on water levels and the route selected.
What campers like
Platform camping: Edgar Evins State Park offers unique elevated camping platforms. "We love the platform sites that are so spacious and private. Easy access to dump station and bath houses. Almost all sites have view of water," notes Betheny. These wooden platforms accommodate both tents and smaller RVs.
Clean facilities: Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground maintains well-kept amenities. "The campgrounds are spacious and have great clean bathrooms. The park itself has a scenic loop drive of the gorge, multiple waterfalls to visit, miles on end of hiking trails," says Brandie D. Shower facilities include hot water and are cleaned regularly.
Private campsites: Many campgrounds in the region offer secluded spots with natural barriers. "We were in site #22 the best site was #21. It was so quiet and woodsy. We had deer in our site everyday," shares B M. about Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park. Sites typically include fire rings, picnic tables, and level tent pads.
What you should know
Site limitations: Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground has variable site conditions. "Most sites are small but was very quiet," reports Matt A. Site lengths range from 18 to 51 feet, with not all sites being completely level.
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons (May-October), reservations are essential at most glamping locations near Antioch. "We visited this state park in our 40 foot motorhome. While there are only a few spots that will accommodate a rig this large, it's worth the time to haunt the reservation system and snag one," advises Cheryl C. about Rock Island State Park.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience road noise due to proximity to interstates. "We arrived after dark, and left fairly early the next morning so didn't spend a lot of time there. Highway about 100 yards away so that was an issue," notes Craig M. about Manchester KOA (now Rvino - The Broken Banjo).
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several parks offer designated swimming areas suitable for children. "The nearby swimming beach was great for the kids. Many short hiking options available," writes Christy E. about Rock Island State Park. Some locations also provide Olympic-sized pools with lifeguards on duty during summer months.
Playground access: Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "We saw 10 deer one morning and hiked a trail with our 3 boys and 2 dogs. Electric and water hook-ups. Firewood available for cash only," shares Ines M. The park also hosts special events for children during holiday weekends.
Educational opportunities: Many parks provide junior ranger programs and nature centers. "The museum was neat there's a lot of History there. The campground has a lot of nice hikes in it," explains B M. Programs typically run on weekends and holidays during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Dump station availability: Most glamping locations with RV accommodations provide dump stations, though not all offer full hookups. "They have a dump station but prefer to have that taken care of before we pull out," mentions Betheny about Rock Island State Park. Hours for dump stations typically match check-out times.
Access challenges: Smooth Rapids Campground has some entrance difficulties. "The entrance and exit is very narrow and steep even for our Sprinter motorhome, let alone something larger. Would not advise it!" warns Ron&Shirley H. Always call ahead to confirm access for larger rigs.
Electric service variations: Power options differ between campgrounds and specific sites. "I'm set up for 30 amp, so I had to use an adapter," explains Gregory G. about Cedars of Lebanon State Park. Most glamping locations offer 30-amp service, while 50-amp connections are less common but available at certain premium sites.