Best Tent Camping near Gruetli-Laager, TN

Several tent campgrounds surround Gruetli-Laager, Tennessee, with South Cumberland State Park offering multiple backcountry tent camping options. Notable locations include Stone Door Campground and Savage Gulf State Park, which features primitive tent sites at Alum Gap, Savage Station, and Savage Falls. These areas provide tent campers with access to the Cumberland Plateau's dramatic gorges, waterfalls, and extensive trail networks.

Most tent sites in the Savage Gulf area require a short hike in, typically less than two miles from parking areas. Campgrounds like Alum Gap offer level, generously sized areas for multiple tents with established fire rings but minimal amenities. Sites must be reserved in advance through the Tennessee State Park website. As one camper reported, "Alum Gap campground provides a remote and tranquil wilderness camping experience in Tennessee, with an easy access trail that makes it an ideal introductory backpacking option." Potable water is limited, with some areas like Savage Station offering a water pump, while other locations require campers to filter water from nearby creeks or fill containers at ranger stations.

The tent camping experience around Gruetli-Laager provides excellent opportunities for solitude and natural immersion. Sites are typically well-spaced, offering privacy between camping parties even in more accessible areas. A reviewer noted that the Alum Gap campground "is a perfect choice for those new to backpacking" with campsites that are "surrounded by trees and offer a serene woodland setting." Tent campers frequently use these areas as bases for day hikes to nearby waterfalls, including Greeter Falls, Savage Falls, and Foster Falls, which serve as popular swimming holes during summer months. Cell service is generally available on the plateau areas but may be limited in gorges and more remote camping locations. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, and campers should check current conditions before arrival.

Best Tent Sites Near Gruetli-Laager, Tennessee (39)

    1. Foster Falls Campground — South Cumberland State Park

    31 Reviews
    Tracy City, TN
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (931) 924-2980

    $18 - $21 / night

    "Things to know: $5 reservation fee, $8-45 per site

    Amenities: picnic table, fire ring, restrooms, heated shower

    Drawbacks: no electric or water hook-ups. No gas generators allowed"

    "The campground is great for climbers looking to get an early start on all the routes nearby."

    2. Alum Gap Campground — Savage Gulf State Park

    8 Reviews
    Beersheba Springs, TN
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (615) 532-0001

    $8 - $12 / night

    "Alum Gap campground, situated in the backcountry of Tennessee, is not only a hidden gem but also a perfect choice for those new to backpacking."

    "The Alum Gap campground in Savage Gulf State Natural Area was a perfect destination for a first-time backpacker (like me!). The trail is easy-moderate, mostly flat with only a few inclines."

    3. Savage Falls Campground — Savage Gulf State Park

    8 Reviews
    Palmer, TN
    6 miles

    "Backpack in , totally primitive sites. Take your own water or filtration system. Hobbs Cabin is available by reservation, close to the tent sites. Bring an air mattress for the wood bunks."

    "Prefect spot for a short hike-in backcountry camping experience. The hike in is less than two miles and the camp sites are secluded and spread apart. Highly recommend!"

    4. Stone Door Campground — Savage Gulf State Park

    6 Reviews
    Beersheba Springs, TN
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (931) 924-2980

    $8 - $35 / night

    "Campsite: Stone Door review

    This campsite is great for novice primitive campers. The campsites are secluded, but very close to the parking lot."

    "Not a far hike in. Isolated camping spots, well marked, out-house nearby, along with water source."

    5. Hobbs Cabin Campground — Savage Gulf State Park

    2 Reviews
    Beersheba Springs, TN
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (615) 532-0001

    $25 / night

    "Hobbs Cabin itself is a primitive shelter, with six wood bunks. Maximum occupancy is six people. Features a wood fireplace and fire ring."

    "Keeps you dry if it’s pouring, but luckily the weather cleared for us for the night. We didn’t utilize the spring that is allegedly there."

    6. Savage Gulf South - Backcountry Camp

    1 Review
    Gruetli-Laager, TN
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (931) 924-2980

    "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."

    7. Savage Station

    1 Review
    Palmer, TN
    7 miles
    Website

    $10 - $35 / night

    "Conveniently located near the parking area for the Savage Fall hike, the Savage Gulf Ranger Station Campground offers a primitive and tranquil camping option amidst the natural beauty of the area."

    8. Father Adamz Campground — South Cumberland State Park

    2 Reviews
    Tracy City, TN
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 867-2757

    "All of the sites in the campground are level and have adequate shade.  The water available in the parking lot is either from a water fountain or the bathroom sink. "

    "The weather was very nice and the sites are well maintained. It’s also only about a half mile down to a swimming hole and water fall perfect for swimming in the summer"

    9. Mad Musky Water Sports Rentals

    1 Review
    Beersheba Springs, TN
    13 miles
    Website

    $10 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 39 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Gruetli-Laager, TN

974 Reviews of 39 Gruetli-Laager Campgrounds



Guide to Gruetli-Laager

Tent camping near Gruetli-Laager, Tennessee, offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying a variety of outdoor activities. With several well-reviewed campgrounds nearby, you'll find the perfect spot to pitch your tent and explore the beautiful surroundings.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

Amenities that enhance your camping experience

Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $20

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Gruetli-Laager, TN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Gruetli-Laager, TN is Foster Falls Campground — South Cumberland State Park with a 4.4-star rating from 31 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Gruetli-Laager, TN?

TheDyrt.com has all 39 tent camping locations near Gruetli-Laager, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.