The backcountry camping areas surrounding Gruetli-Laager, Tennessee sit atop the Cumberland Plateau at elevations averaging 1,800 feet, creating distinct microclimates that can be 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby valleys. This elevation advantage makes tent camping near Gruetli-Laager particularly appealing during summer months when lower elevations become uncomfortably hot. Most primitive campsites in this region require advance reservations through the Tennessee State Parks reservation system, with fees ranging from $8-12 per night.
What to do
Swim in waterfall pools: Foster Falls offers a 60-foot waterfall with a swimming area at the base that provides relief during hot weather. As one camper noted about Foster Falls Campground: "Beautiful spot any time of year but we like to go when it's warm enough to swim in the waterfall."
Rock climbing access: The sandstone cliffs near Foster Falls provide over 179 established sport climbing routes ranging from 5.8 to 5.13 in difficulty. "Really beautiful scenery on somewhat strenuous hikes to waterfalls, some good sport climbing, and a few trails that will take you really high up so you can look down at the beautiful green canopy," explains a visitor to Foster Falls.
Connect trails for longer adventures: Multiple trail systems can be linked for extended backpacking trips. The Savage Falls Campground connects to several routes: "I hiked down 'Fiery Gizzard' and it was an easy ten-mile hike to our site, perfect for beginners and kids."
What campers like
Level tent sites: Most primitive sites offer flat, well-established spaces for setting up camp. At Alum Gap Campground, "Most of the sites are large, with lots of space to set up camp and hang out, and they're far enough apart to maintain a decent amount of privacy."
Water access options: Water sources vary by campground. A camper at Savage Falls reports: "Water a short walk from camp site if you are backpacking. My husband and I are very fond of this particular camp site."
Winter visibility: The lack of foliage during colder months creates different experiences. At Stone Door Campground, sites are "perched on the rim and a nexus of trails that will take you to everything you want to see in this part of the park. Views of canyon in winter."
What you should know
Cell service variability: Coverage depends on exact location and elevation. At Savage Station, "cell phone service is excellent, thanks to the location atop the plateau."
Site reservation timing: Weekends fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Check in with the Rangers at Stone Door before you head out," advises one camper about Alum Gap.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds can experience unexpected noise. One reviewer noted about Foster Falls: "There is a farm nearby with a rooster that spent the better part of the day crowing, which can be distracting when you have a toddler you are trying to get to sleep."
Water availability: Seasonal rainfall affects water sources. According to a camper at Stone Door: "Spring water may not be available during dry conditions."
Tips for camping with families
Start with shorter hikes: Several campgrounds offer introductory backpacking experiences. One family reported about Father Adamz Campground: "The hike in is pretty steep in parts and very rocky. Definitely a good workout! The hiking trails are well maintained and the scenery is great."
Consider proximity to swimming holes: Cooling off options make hot weather more bearable. A family visiting Father Adamz mentioned: "It's also only about a half mile down to a swimming hole and water fall perfect for swimming in the summer."
Choose sites with infrastructure: Some areas offer more amenities than others. A visitor to Savage Gulf South noted: "1/2 mile walk in from the parking lot. 5 sites with lots of space between them. Beautiful overlook. 1/3 mile rock scrambling hike to waterfall."
Tips for RVers
Limited RV options: Most campgrounds near Gruetli-Laager are primitive tent sites with no RV hookups. Mad Musky Water Sports Rentals is one of few exceptions, offering electric hookups and water access.
Consider tent camping alternatives: Given limited RV facilities, consider tent camping as a viable option. One visitor to Hunter's Check Station Campground noted that while it's free camping for tents and RVs, "most of the camp spots are littered with peoples leftovers" and there's "not a quiet camping area lots of road noise and traffic."
Water and waste planning: RVers must plan carefully for water needs. A camper at Mad Musky stated simply that "owners are awesome camp is too," but didn't elaborate on specific RV amenities beyond the basic utilities listed.
